How to Calculate Total I-485 Filing Fees for Family of Four

Dive Right Into

Key Takeaways

• USCIS updated I-485 fees April 2024: $1,440 per adult, $950 per child under 14 filing with a parent.
• Separate payments required for each form and applicant; combining payments causes application rejection.
• Additional fees for Form I-765 ($260) and I-131 ($630) apply separately, even if filed with I-485.

If you’re planning to file the I-485 form (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) for yourself, your spouse, and your two children, it’s important to understand the fee structure and payment process. The United States 🇺🇸 Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its filing fees in April 2024, and these changes affect every applicant. This guide will walk you through each step, help you avoid common mistakes, and ensure you’re prepared for the process.

How to Calculate Total I-485 Filing Fees for Family of Four

Introduction: Why Accurate Fee Calculation Matters

Filing the I-485 form is a major step toward becoming a permanent resident in the United States 🇺🇸. Each applicant, including children, must submit a separate form and pay the correct fee. If you pay the wrong amount or combine payments incorrectly, USCIS will reject your application, causing delays and extra stress. With the recent fee changes, it’s more important than ever to get this right.

This guide will show you:

How to calculate the total I-485 filing fee for your family
What additional fees may apply if you file for work or travel documents
Step-by-step instructions for preparing and submitting payments
Common mistakes to avoid
A checklist to help you stay organized

Step 1: Understand the I-485 Form and Who Needs to File

The I-485 form is used to apply for a green card from within the United States 🇺🇸. Each person applying for permanent residence must file their own I-485 form. This includes:

The main applicant (usually the person sponsored for a green card)
The spouse, if also applying
Each child, regardless of age

Key Point: Every family member must have their own I-485 form and pay a separate fee.

You can find the official I-485 form and instructions on the USCIS Form I-485 page.

Step 2: Determine the Correct Filing Fee for Each Applicant

USCIS updated its fees on April 1, 2024. The current fees are:

Adults (age 14 and older): $1,440 per applicant
Children (under 14, filing with a parent): $950 per child

Important: The lower fee for children under 14 only applies if they are filing with at least one parent. If a child files alone, the adult fee applies.

Example Calculation for a Family of Four

Let’s say you have:

Yourself (adult)
Your spouse (adult)
Two children (both under 14, filing with you)

Here’s how to calculate the total:

2 adults × $1,440 = $2,880
2 children × $950 = $1,900
Total I-485 filing fees = $2,880 + $1,900 = $4,780

Tip: Double-check each child’s age and filing status before calculating the fee.

Step 3: Consider Additional Fees for Work and Travel Documents

Many applicants also want to work or travel while their I-485 is pending. If so, you may file:

Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document)

As of April 1, 2024, these forms require separate fees even if filed together with the I-485. This is a change from previous years, when these fees were often waived if filed at the same time.

Current Fees

Form I-765: $260 per applicant (official form link)
Form I-131: $630 per applicant (official form link)

Example: If all four family members apply for both work and travel documents, the extra fees would be:

I-765: 4 × $260 = $1,040
I-131: 4 × $630 = $2,520
Total additional fees = $1,040 + $2,520 = $3,560

Note: These fees are optional. Only pay them if you want to apply for work or travel authorization.

Step 4: Prepare Separate Payments for Each Form and Applicant

USCIS requires a separate payment for each form and each applicant. You cannot combine fees for multiple people or forms into one payment.

How to Prepare Payments

For each I-485 form: Prepare a separate check, money order, or credit card payment for the correct amount.
For each I-765 and I-131 form: Prepare separate payments for each applicant and each form.

Example for a Family of Four:

4 payments for I-485 forms (one per person)
4 payments for I-765 forms (if applying for work authorization)
4 payments for I-131 forms (if applying for travel authorization)

Critical: If you send the wrong amount or combine payments, USCIS will reject your application.

Step 5: Submit Forms and Payments According to USCIS Instructions

Once you’ve prepared all forms and payments:

Check the latest USCIS filing address for your category on the official USCIS website.
Organize each application packet with the correct form, supporting documents, and payment.
Label each payment clearly with the applicant’s name and the form type.
Mail all packets together if possible, but keep each one separate inside the envelope.

Tip: Use a trackable mailing service and keep the receipt.

Step 6: Keep Copies of All Forms and Payment Receipts

Before mailing your applications:

Make copies of every form, supporting document, and payment.
Save all receipts from checks, money orders, or credit card payments.
Keep a record of the mailing date and tracking number.

If there’s any problem with your application, these records will help you resolve it quickly.

Step 7: Track Your Case and Watch for USCIS Notices

After you submit your applications:

USCIS will send a receipt notice (Form I-797C) for each application and payment.
Check your case status online using the receipt number at USCIS Case Status.
Respond quickly to any requests for more information.

Estimated Timeline for Each Step

Fee calculation and payment preparation: 1–2 days
Form completion and document gathering: 3–7 days (depends on your situation)
Mailing and delivery to USCIS: 1–3 days (use express or priority mail)
USCIS receipt notice: 2–4 weeks after USCIS receives your application

Note: Processing times for the I-485 form can vary widely. Check the latest estimates on the USCIS Processing Times page.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

1. Paying the Wrong Amount
– Always check the latest fees on the USCIS Filing Fees page.
– Double-check each applicant’s age and filing status.

2. Combining Payments
– Never combine payments for multiple applicants or forms.
– Each form for each person needs its own payment.

3. Using Outdated Forms
– Download the latest version of each form from the official USCIS website.
– Outdated forms may be rejected.

4. Missing Supporting Documents
– Review the checklist in the I-485 instructions to ensure you include everything needed.

5. Not Keeping Copies
– Always keep copies of everything you send to USCIS.

6. Ignoring USCIS Notices
– Respond to any requests for evidence or additional information right away.

Troubleshooting: What to Do If Your Application Is Rejected

If USCIS rejects your application because of a fee or paperwork mistake:

Read the rejection notice carefully to understand the problem.
Correct the error (such as paying the correct fee or using the right form).
Resubmit your application as soon as possible.

If you’re unsure about the reason for rejection or how to fix it, consider speaking with an immigration attorney.

Checklist Summary: I-485 Family Filing Fee Process

Before You File:

[ ] Confirm the age and filing status of each family member
[ ] Calculate the correct I-485 fee for each person
[ ] Decide if you want to file for work (I-765) or travel (I-131) documents
[ ] Calculate additional fees for I-765 and I-131 if needed
[ ] Download the latest forms from the official USCIS website
[ ] Prepare separate payments for each form and applicant
[ ] Gather all supporting documents

When Filing:

[ ] Organize each application packet separately
[ ] Label payments with applicant’s name and form type
[ ] Use a trackable mailing service
[ ] Keep copies of all forms, documents, and payment receipts

After Filing:

[ ] Watch for USCIS receipt notices
[ ] Track your case status online
[ ] Respond quickly to any USCIS requests

Policy Background: Why the Fees Changed

The increase in the I-485 filing fee to $1,440 per adult (and $950 for children under 14 filing with a parent) took effect on April 1, 2024. This change is part of a broader effort by USCIS to cover its operating costs without relying on money from Congress. The separate fees for work and travel documents (I-765 and I-131) also reflect a shift in policy. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these changes mean families must plan for higher costs when applying for adjustment of status.

If you filed your I-485 before April 1, 2024, and paid the old fee, you do not have to pay for I-765 or I-131 renewals while your I-485 is still pending. However, all new applications after this date must pay the new fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I pay all fees with one check or money order?
A: No. You must submit a separate payment for each form and each applicant.

Q: What happens if I pay the wrong amount?
A: USCIS will reject your application and return your forms and payment.

Q: Where can I find the latest fee information?
A: Always check the USCIS Filing Fees page before submitting your application.

Q: Do I need to pay extra for biometrics?
A: As of April 2024, the biometrics fee is included in the I-485 filing fee.

Q: Should I consult a lawyer?
A: If your case is complex or you have questions, it’s a good idea to speak with an immigration attorney.

Official Resources

Final Takeaways and Next Steps

Calculate your total fees carefully using the current rates: $1,440 per adult, $950 per child under 14 (filing with a parent).
Prepare separate payments for each form and applicant.
Include extra fees for work and travel documents if you want those benefits.
Use only the latest forms from the official USCIS website.
Keep organized records of everything you send and receive.

By following these steps, you’ll avoid common mistakes and keep your family’s green card process on track. For more details or updates, always refer to the official USCIS Form I-485 page, which provides the most current information.

If you have questions or face unique circumstances, don’t hesitate to seek legal help. Careful planning and attention to detail can save you time, money, and stress during this important process.

Learn Today

I-485 → USCIS form used to apply for adjustment to permanent resident status within the United States.
USCIS → United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, the government agency handling immigration applications.
Form I-765 → Application for Employment Authorization, allowing applicants to work while their status is pending.
Form I-131 → Application for Travel Document, enabling lawful travel during immigration processing.
Filing Fee → The payment required to process an immigration form; fees vary by form and applicant’s age.

This Article in a Nutshell

Filing Form I-485 requires precise fee calculations after April 2024 USCIS changes. Each family member must submit separate payments, including optional work and travel forms, to avoid delays and rejections in their permanent residency process.
— By VisaVerge.com