What does it mean to be a Co-sponsor or Joint Sponsor?

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In order to become a permanent resident, most people (the major exception is asylees and refugees, who are not subject to the same requirements) will need to demonstrate that they will not become a "public charge."  The person who is sponsoring the alien for permanent residence has the primary responsibility for ensuring that the alien doesn't become dependent upon public benefits, like cash assistance, food stamps, or Medicaid, but in cases where the sponsor doesn't have sufficient income to qualify (the requirement is that the sponsor be able to support his or her household at 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines), he or she may bring in a co-sponsor to meet the financial obligations.

The co-sponsor becomes jointly responsible, along with the primary sponsor, for ensuring that the government is repaid if the alien receives any means-tested public benefits (which most aliens are not entitled to receive in the first place--most federal benefits programs require that the person demonstrate either US citizenship or 40 quarters of qualifying income--basically, ten years of full time work with Social Security withheld).  The co-sponsor is not responsible for any other debts the alien incurs--so if the alien gets a car loan and defaults, or racks up credit card debt, the co-sponsor is not responsible.   In general, for most people, there is very little risk that the alien will incur debts for which the co-sponsor will become responsible, because the government regulates means-tested benefit programs fairly strictly.  However, the obligation is serious, and it is potentially long-lasting--it continues until the alien either reaches 40 quarters of Social Security earnings, or becomes a US citizen (which most permanent residents are eligible for after 5 years, 3 if married to a US citizen).

If you are considering becoming a joint sponsor, you'll need to complete Form I-864, along with Form I-864A if you have a household member who is a spouse or who contributes income to the household which will be used to support the alien.  The petitioner will also complete the I-864.  You'll also need to provide proof of your US citizenship, whether a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate.  Finally, it's a good idea to submit the past three years of taxes (although only one year is required), and also a letter from your employer confirming your current salary and employment status.

Make sure you keep a copy of these forms for your records, and keep in touch with the person, so that you know when your obligation ends.  As always, if you have questions, you can reach me at christina@cruddenlegal.com.  Good luck!