Who Do I Make My I-485 Payment Check Payable To?

Key Takeaways

• Make checks payable to ‘U.S. Department of Homeland Security’ exactly to avoid rejection.
• I-485 filing fee typically costs $1,225 for applicants aged 14 to 78 in 2025.
• Use recent personal checks with preprinted name, correct date, and separate checks per applicant.

Paying for the I-485 Form: A Complete Guide to Personal Check Payments and U.S. Department of Homeland Security Requirements

Applying for permanent residence in the United States 🇺🇸 is a major step for many immigrants and their families. One of the most important parts of this process is submitting the Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This form allows eligible individuals to apply for a green card while staying in the United States 🇺🇸. Paying the correct fee in the right way is essential to avoid delays or rejections. Many applicants choose to pay by personal check, but it’s important to follow the exact instructions set by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

This guide explains everything you need to know about paying for your I-485 form by personal check, including eligibility, step-by-step payment instructions, common mistakes to avoid, and practical tips for a smooth application process. We’ll also cover other payment options, compare them, and provide real-world examples to help you understand how these rules affect applicants in different situations.

What Is the I-485 Form?

The I-485 form is officially called the “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.” It’s the main form used by people who want to become lawful permanent residents (green card holders) without leaving the United States 🇺🇸. This process is known as “adjustment of status.”

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

Who Uses the I-485 Form?

• Family-based applicants: People sponsored by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident family member.
• Employment-based applicants: Workers sponsored by a U.S. employer.
• Refugees and asylees: People granted asylum or refugee status.
• Special categories: Certain special immigrants, such as Afghan or Iraqi nationals who worked for the U.S. government.

Why Is the Payment Method Important?

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is very strict about how applicants pay their fees. If you make a mistake—like writing the wrong payee name or using an old check—your entire application package could be rejected. This can cause long delays, extra costs, and even legal problems if your status is about to expire.

Paying by personal check is a popular choice because it’s easy to track and provides a clear record of payment. However, you must follow the exact rules set by the DHS and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Who Should the Check Be Made Payable To?

When paying for your I-485 form by check, you must make the check payable to:

“U.S. Department of Homeland Security”

• Do not abbreviate this as “USDHS” or “DHS.”
• Do not use any other name or variation.

This is a strict requirement. If you write anything else, your payment will be rejected, and your application will not be processed.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Paying by Personal Check

Paying by personal check is simple if you follow these steps:

1. Use the Right Type of Check

• Personal check: A check from your own bank account.
• Money order or cashier’s check: Also accepted, but this guide focuses on personal checks.
• No business checks unless you are an employer filing for an employee.

2. Make Sure Your Check Is Preprinted

• Your name and your bank’s name must be preprinted on the check.
• Your address and phone number should also be preprinted, typed, or written in ink.

3. Fill Out the Check Correctly

• Date: The date must be within the last 365 days. Old checks will be rejected.
• Pay to the Order of: Write exactly “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
• Amount: Write the exact dollar amount in numbers (e.g., $1,225.00).
• Amount in words: Spell out the amount (e.g., “One thousand two hundred twenty-five and 00/100”).
• Memo line: Write a short note like “I-485 application” and the applicant’s name if it’s not already on the check.
• Signature: Sign the check in ink using your legal name.

4. Double-Check Everything

• Make sure all information is correct and matches your application.
• If you’re filing for more than one person (like family members), write a separate check for each applicant.

Example of a Properly Filled Personal Check

Here’s what a correct check might look like:

• Date: 05/15/2025
• Pay to the Order of: U.S. Department of Homeland Security
• Amount: $1,225.00
• Amount in words: One thousand two hundred twenty-five and 00/100
• Memo: I-485 application – Maria Lopez
• Signature: Maria Lopez

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many applications are delayed or rejected because of simple errors on the check. Here are some common mistakes:

• Using abbreviations like “DHS” or “USDHS” instead of the full name.
• Leaving out your address or phone number on the check.
• Writing the wrong amount or making a math error.
• Using a check that’s more than a year old.
• Not signing the check or using a nickname instead of your legal name.
• Including one check for multiple applicants instead of separate checks.

Avoiding these mistakes can save you time, money, and stress.

How Much Is the I-485 Filing Fee?

The fee for the I-485 form depends on your age and category. As of May 2025, the typical fee is:

• $1,225 for applicants aged 14 to 78 (includes $1,140 application fee + $85 biometrics fee).
• Lower fees for children under 14 or adults over 78.
• Some categories (like refugees) may be exempt from the fee.

Fees are non-refundable. This means you won’t get your money back if your application is denied or if you withdraw it.

To check the most current fee, use the USCIS Fee Calculator or visit the official USCIS fee schedule.

What Happens If You Make a Mistake?

If you make a mistake on your check, USCIS will reject your entire application package. They will return your forms and payment, and you will need to fix the problem and resubmit everything. This can cause serious delays, especially if you are close to a deadline or your current visa is about to expire.

Key consequences of mistakes:

• Lost time: You may have to wait weeks or months to resubmit.
• Extra costs: You might need to pay new fees or get new checks.
• Legal risks: If your status expires while you wait, you could face immigration problems.

Other Ways to Pay for the I-485 Form

While personal checks are common, you have other payment options:

1. Money Order

• Buy from a bank, post office, or some stores.
• Fill out the payee as “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
• Good for people who don’t have a personal checking account.

2. Cashier’s Check

• Issued by your bank.
• Safer than personal checks because the money is guaranteed.

3. Credit or Debit Card

• Use Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.
• Only available for certain applications filed at USCIS Lockbox facilities.
• Not all USCIS offices accept credit card payments, so check the instructions.

Tip: Never send cash in the mail.

Comparing Payment Methods

Personal checks are best for people who want a clear record and have a checking account. Money orders and cashier’s checks are good for those without a bank account or who want extra security. Credit/debit cards are convenient but not always available for every type of application.

Real-World Example: Paying for a Family’s Green Card Applications

Let’s say the Garcia family—parents and two children—are all applying for green cards using the I-485 form. Here’s how they should handle payment:

• Each family member must submit a separate I-485 form.
• Each form must have its own personal check made out to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
• The parents write checks for $1,225 each (since they are between 14 and 78 years old).
• The children’s fees may be lower, depending on their ages.
• All checks are filled out with the correct payee, amount, and memo line.
• The family includes all checks and forms in one package and mails it to the correct USCIS address.

If the Garcias tried to pay with one check for all four applications, USCIS would reject the package, causing delays and extra work.

What If You Don’t Have a Personal Check?

If you don’t have a personal checking account, you can:

• Buy a money order from a bank, post office, or store.
• Get a cashier’s check from your bank.
• Ask a trusted friend or family member with a checking account to write the check for you, but make sure your name and application details are clear on the memo line.

Always keep a copy of the check or money order for your records.

Important Tips for a Smooth Payment Process

• Double-check the payee name: Always write “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
• Use a recent check: Make sure the date is within the last 365 days.
• Include all required information: Address, phone number, and applicant’s name.
• Sign the check in ink: Use your legal name.
• Keep a copy: Photocopy the check before mailing.
• Mail to the correct address: Use the address listed in the I-485 instructions.

What Happens After You Pay?

Once USCIS receives your application and check:

1. USCIS deposits the check: This usually happens within a few days.
2. You receive a receipt notice: This confirms your application is being processed.
3. Biometrics appointment: If required, you’ll get a notice to provide fingerprints and photos.
4. USCIS reviews your application: They may ask for more information or documents.
5. Decision: You’ll receive a notice with the final decision.

If there’s a problem with your payment, you’ll get your package back with instructions on how to fix it.

Rights and Pathways After Filing the I-485

Filing the I-485 form is the first step toward becoming a permanent resident. While your application is pending, you may have certain rights:

• Work authorization: You can apply for a work permit (Form I-765).
• Travel permission: You can apply for advance parole (Form I-131) to travel outside the United States 🇺🇸 while your case is pending.
• Stay in the United States 🇺🇸: You can remain in the country legally while USCIS processes your application.

If your I-485 is approved, you’ll become a lawful permanent resident and receive a green card.

Where to Find Official Information

For the most up-to-date instructions, always check the official USCIS I-485 page. This page includes the latest forms, fee amounts, and payment instructions.

You can also use the USCIS Fee Calculator to confirm the current fee for your category.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, following the exact payment instructions is one of the most important steps in the green card process. Even small mistakes can lead to big delays, so it’s worth taking the time to get it right.

Final Takeaways and Practical Guidance

• Always make your check payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
• Never use abbreviations or nicknames.
• Fill out your check carefully, including all required information.
• Submit a separate check for each I-485 form.
• Check the latest fee amount before sending your payment.
• Keep copies of everything you send.
• Mail your application to the correct address.

By following these steps, you can avoid common problems and help your green card application move forward smoothly. If you have questions, visit the USCIS I-485 page or talk to a qualified immigration lawyer for help.

Remember, paying the right way is just as important as filling out the form itself. Take your time, double-check your work, and you’ll be one step closer to becoming a permanent resident of the United States 🇺🇸.

Learn Today

I-485 Form → Application to register permanent residence or adjust status for a green card inside the U.S.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security → Federal agency overseeing immigration payments and regulations, including Form I-485 fee processing.
Personal Check → A payment method from an individual’s bank account, requiring exact payee name and date compliance.
Biometrics Fee → Mandatory $85 fee for fingerprinting and photograph collection during the green card process.
Cashier’s Check → Bank-issued check guaranteed by the bank, often used as a secure payment alternative.

This Article in a Nutshell

Paying the I-485 form fee by personal check requires precise instructions from DHS. Avoid common mistakes, use exact payee names, and understand fees. This ensures timely processing of green card applications and prevents rejections or delays due to improper payments, safeguarding your path to permanent U.S. residency.
— By VisaVerge.com