September 03rd, 2025

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a major update to its payment process: beginning October 28, 2025, USCIS will no longer accept checks or money orders for filing fees.

Instead, applicants will be required to pay using one of two electronic methods:

• ACH direct debit from a U.S. bank account (new option via Form G-1650)
• Credit card payments (continuing option via Form G-1450)

This move is part of the federal government’s effort to modernize payments under Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments to and from America’s Bank Account.


Why This Matters

Over 90% of current USCIS payments are made by paper checks and money orders. These payment types slow down processing and increase the risk of fraud, theft, or lost payments.

By requiring electronic payments, USCIS expects to:

✔️ Improve efficiency and speed of application processing
✔️ Reduce fraud and payment errors
✔️ Align with modern banking practices
Applicants who rely on checks and money orders must prepare now for the upcoming transition.


What Applicants Need to Know

📌 New Form G-1650 allows direct debit payments from U.S. bank accounts.
📌 Form G-1450 remains available for credit card payments, including prepaid credit cards.
📌 Checks and money orders will no longer be accepted after October 28, 2025.
📌 Applications may be rejected if accounts do not have sufficient funds or if payments are denied.


Final Note

While USCIS has accepted credit card payments for several years, this new policy makes electronic transactions the only way to pay after October 28, 2025.  Applicants and petitioners should review their payment options now to avoid delays or rejections when this change takes effect.

If you have upcoming applications or petitions with USCIS, now is the time to prepare for this change. Ensure your payment method is set up correctly before October 28, 2025, to avoid delays or rejections.

​For personalized guidance, contact the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes today.