U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has just announced a major change that could impact how thousands of immigration applicants pay their filing fees. Effective immediately, applicants can now authorize USCIS to debit their U.S. bank account directly by submitting Form G-1650, Authorization for ACH Transactions, along with their application, petition, or request.
This change marks a major step forward in modernizing how immigration-related payments are made. For Connecticut families applying for green cards, work permits, adjustment of status, family-based petitions, or any other immigration service, this could simplify the process and cut down delays. But what does this actually mean for you or your family if you’re planning to file an immigration form? Let’s break it down.
What Is ACH and Why Does It Matter?
ACH (Automated Clearing House) debit is a type of electronic bank transaction that allows money to be withdrawn directly from a checking or savings account. It’s commonly used for utility bills, mortgages, and payroll deposits. Now, for the first time, USCIS is embracing this option for immigration-related payments.
If you’ve ever had an application rejected because of a bounced check or missing money order, you know how frustrating that experience can be. ACH transactions reduce that risk. You won’t need to worry about a check getting lost in the mail or a money order being stolen.
You simply authorize the debit using Form G-1650, and if your bank account has sufficient funds, your payment will go through smoothly.
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Why Is USCIS Making This Change?
According to USCIS, over 90% of current immigration payments still come through paper checks and money orders. These manual processes are prone to delays, human error, and security issues.
This new initiative aligns with Executive Order 14247, which focuses on modernizing how Americans and immigrants pay and receive funds from the government. It’s also about efficiency: reducing processing times and saving money for taxpayers while enhancing security.
What Are the Benefits of Paying by ACH?
Let’s break down how this new option helps both USCIS and applicants:
- Faster Processing: Without the need to manually open envelopes, scan paper checks, or verify money orders, USCIS can move your application through the system faster.
- Reduced Risk of Fraud or Theft: Paper checks can be stolen or counterfeited. ACH payments are more traceable and secure.
- No More Lost Payments: If you’ve ever had to track down a missing postal money order or wait for a refund due to a check processing error, you’ll appreciate this improvement.
- Eliminates the Hassle of Paperwork: You no longer have to get certified checks or physically go to the post office or a bank to buy a money order.
- Immediate Confirmation: Applicants will get quicker confirmation that payment was received and processed, offering greater peace of mind.
What If You Don’t Have a U.S. Bank Account?
If you don’t have access to a U.S. checking account, don’t worry. You can still pay using a credit card through Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. Prepaid credit cards are also accepted, provided they have sufficient balance.
But remember: after October 28, 2025, USCIS will no longer accept personal checks or money orders. That means now is a good time to begin transitioning to electronic payments if you haven’t already.
What Happens If Your ACH Payment Fails?
This part is critical: USCIS will reject your entire application or petition if the ACH transaction is denied due to insufficient funds or incorrect banking information.
This is where legal guidance from an immigration attorney can help. A qualified attorney can:
- Help you fill out Form G-1650 correctly
- Review your bank account status to avoid rejections
- Advise you on which payment method is safest for your situation
- Ensure your application isn’t rejected over a technical error
How Does This Affect Filing Fees and Processing Times?
While the actual fees haven’t changed due to this shift, the overall filing experience might improve significantly:
- Faster payment processing means your receipt notice may arrive sooner
- Electronic payments help USCIS identify and correct issues earlier in the application process
- Less mailroom congestion means faster review for everyone
This is especially important as many immigration forms already face long processing times. Eliminating delays caused by payment issues can save weeks or even months.
What Should You Do Now?
Start by asking yourself a few questions:
- Do I currently pay USCIS filing fees with a check or money order?
- Do I have a U.S. bank account with funds available to use for immigration filing fees?
- Am I comfortable filling out an authorization form that allows USCIS to debit my account directly?
If you’re unsure about any of these, don’t guess. Immigration paperwork is complicated enough without adding payment rejections or delays to the mix. Talk to an attorney who can walk you through the right option for your case.
What If I Make a Mistake?
Mistakes on immigration forms, even payment forms, can be costly. Rejected applications may not only delay your case but could also result in missed deadlines or trigger other immigration consequences.
Here’s where a trusted immigration attorney becomes more than just helpful, they become essential. At The Law Offices of James A. Welcome, the team helps Connecticut immigrants ensure that their submissions to USCIS are accurate, timely, and complete.
Why This Matters More Than Ever
As immigration enforcement policies shift and filing requirements change, even a small mistake can put you at risk. If your application is rejected for a bounced payment, it may delay your status or create a gap that impacts work authorization, eligibility for relief, or even trigger removal proceedings.
In today’s immigration environment, there’s little room for error.
How The Law Offices of James A. Welcome Can Help
Attorney James A. Welcome has guided clients through immigration filing processes for over two decades. Our firm serves immigrants across Connecticut, including in Waterbury, Danbury, Hartford, Norwalk, and Bridgeport. Whether it’s a green card renewal, DACA renewal, asylum application, or family-based petition, we know how to ensure your payment doesn’t derail your case.
We’’ll review your financial documents, help you choose the right payment method, complete the necessary forms, and follow up with USCIS if anything goes wrong. And if you’ve already had an application rejected for payment issues, we can help you refile correctly, before deadlines pass.
Have Questions About This New Payment System?
You’re not alone. Many immigrants have concerns about ACH debit authorization. Is it safe? What if I don’t trust the system? How do I make sure I’m not double charged?
These are all valid questions. And the answers depend on your personal situation.
If you’re unsure how this affects you or your family’s immigration case, now is the time to reach out. Let an attorney help you make the right choice.
Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Immigration Case?
Call (203) 753-7300 or visit www.welcomelawfirm.com to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced immigration attorney. The team is ready to answer your questions, prepare your documents, and make sure your payments don’t delay your future.
