USCIS Is Phasing Out Money Orders: What You Need to Know

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is modernizing how people pay filing and application fees—and that means that money orders and paper checks will soon no longer be accepted for most immigration benefit requests. If you're planning to file anything with USCIS, this change affects you. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s changing, when, and how to be ready.

🔍 What’s Changing

USCIS has introduced a new payment method: ACH debit (electronic funds transfer directly from a U.S. bank account). This is done using Form G-1650, “Authorization for ACH Transactions.”

They also continue to allow credit card payments via Form G-1450.

Paper checks and money orders are being phased out: Starting October 28, 2025, USCIS will no longer accept them. After that date, most payments must be either electronic debit (ACH) or credit card.

✅ What You Should Do Now

To avoid delays, lost payments, or rejected applications, here are steps you can take now:

• Check Before You File Always review the specific USCIS form instructions (on USCIS.gov) and verify the payment methods accepted for that form and at the office where you are filing. Some field offices already reject money orders or cashier’s checks. 
• Get the Appropriate Forms If you have a U.S. bank account: Plan to use “Form G-1650” to authorize an ACH debit. 
•  If you don’t have a U.S. bank account: You can use Form G-1450 (credit/debit/prepaid card) to pay. 
• Make Sure Your Bank is Ready If you’re using ACH debit, ensure your bank allows automatic debit from USCIS or related agencies, and that you have the correct routing and account numbers. Also make sure the account has sufficient funds. USCIS may reject filings if the debit fails. 
• Avoid Waiting Until the Deadline Since the change is nationwide and official after October 28, 2025, waiting until right before the deadline can increase risk of mix-ups or rejections. 
• File earlier if possible. 
• Keep Proof and Documentation 
• If your area has an exemption or special case (no bank account, etc.), check whether there's a way to request an exemption (there are certain circumstances where paper payments may still be allowed or waivable). 
• Maintain documentation like bank statements or proof of inability to use electronic payments, as you may need them