USCIS Application Rejections: Common Errors & Avoiding Tips

Submitting an immigration application to USCIS may seem straightforward, but even small mistakes can result in costly delays, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), or outright rejection of your case. Whether you are filing for a green card, family petition, work authorization, or another immigration benefit, accuracy and compliance are critical.At Shev Law Group, we regularly assist individuals and families in Houston and Dallas with preparing complete and properly filed immigration applications. According to our immigration lawyers in Houston, here are some of the most common filing mistakes and how you can avoid them.

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Double-Check the Form Edition You are Using

Always check the webpage for each form on the official USCIS website to verify that you are using the form edition currently accepted by USCIS.
The webpage for each USCIS form has an “Edition Date” section, which you can expand to verify the form edition(s) currently accepted by USCIS. Be sure to cross-check with the edition date on your form to make sure you are using the correct edition.

Sign All USCIS Forms with an Original “Wet Ink” Signature

Always sign and date your forms by hand using ink before submitting or scanning them. Electronic signatures are accepted only when specifically permitted in the form instructions. Most USCIS forms require a genuine handwritten signature directly on the document.

Avoid using typed names, digital signatures, signature stamps, or copied signature images, as these may lead to rejection of your application.
You must keep copies of the original ink-signed documents for your records in case USCIS requests verification of the original signature later.

Double-Check the USCIS Filing Fee Amount

Always review the official USCIS Fee Schedule to confirm the correct filing fee for your application or petition. USCIS filing fees may change from time to time, so to avoid relying on outdated forms, old information, or unofficial internet sources.

Confirm You Are Using an Accepted USCIS Payment Method

As of October 28, 2025, USCIS no longer accepts checks or money orders for filing fee payments. Before submitting your application, make sure you are using an approved electronic payment method accepted by USCIS.

Accepted USCIS Payment Methods

USCIS currently accepts the following payment options for filing fees:

Credit card, debit card, or prepaid card: Applicants must complete and sign Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions) and place it on top of your filing package, application, or petition when you file it.
ACH bank debit: Applicants must complete and sign Form G-1650 (Authorization for ACH Transactions) and add it at the top of your application package.

Make sure thatall payments must be made through a U.S. bank and payable in U.S. dollars.

Use only one payment method per filing. Do not split a single filing fee between ACH and card payments, and do not submit both Form G-1450 and Form G-1650 for the same application.

Exemption from the USCIS Electronic Payment Requirement

If you are unable to make an electronic payment, you may request an exemption by completing Form G-1651 and submitting it with your application package.

To qualify for an exemption, you must demonstrate at least one of the following:

You do not have access to a bank account or electronic payment system
Electronic payment would create an “undue hardship”
Electronic payment is not appropriate due to national security or law enforcement reasons
Other special circumstances apply, as determined by the Secretary of the Treasury

If USCIS approves your exemption request, you may be permitted to use a non-electronic payment method for your filing.

If You Are Filing Multiple USCIS Applications

When submitting more than one application or petition, make sure each filing fee is paid separately.
Use a separate payment authorization form for every application you file. However, biometric service fees may be included on the same authorization form as the related application or petition.

Bank & Payment Safety Tips for USCIS Filings

Ensure your bank account has sufficient funds available to avoid declined or returned payments.
Inform your bank in advance if you are making a large payment to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, as the transaction may appear under the U.S. Department of Treasury and could otherwise be flagged or declined.
If you are paying through ACH bank debit, confirm that your account does not have a debit block that could prevent USCIS withdrawals. A declined ACH transaction may result in rejection of your entire filing package.

Work With an Experienced Immigration Attorney

Immigration paperwork can be overwhelming, especially when laws, forms, and filing procedures frequently change. An experienced immigration attorney can help you avoid mistakes, prepare strong supporting documents, and improve the chances of a smooth filing process.

At Shev Law Group, our visa & immigration service lawyer in Houston provides comprehensive immigration guidance and personalized legal support for individuals and families. Whether you are applying for a green card, family petition, visa, or adjustment of status, our team of trusted immigration lawyers in Houston & Dallas remain ready to make the process easier and hassle-free for you.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult a licensed immigration attorney regarding your specific case.

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