r/USCIS_FORUM

I responded to an RFE 12 days ago regarding their inability to verify that my joint sponsor met the requirements—which is illogical, given that he earns $70,000. Consequently, in our RFE response, we submitted an entirely new Form I-864 package for my wife (duly signed) and another for my joint sponsor (also duly signed). However, under "Total Income" in Section 6, Question 16a, we listed his Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)—which is $68,000—rather than his actual total income of $70,000. Considering that this was a response to an RFE, should I brace myself for the worst—namely, a denial? I have heard that they typically do not issue a second RFE for the same specific issue. It is also worth noting that when we initially submitted the forms, instead of providing the joint sponsor's *Tax Return Transcript*, we submitted his *1040 Account Transcript*; however, in our RFE response, we submitted the correct transcript. Do you think the discrepancy between the AGI and the total income figures will cause any major problems?

Hey all,

I’ve been waiting on my case (like many of you here), and got a bit tired of manually refreshing the USCIS status page multiple times a day.

Out of curiosity, I started logging updates directly from the USCIS case status endpoint to see **when updates actually happen**.

After running it for a while, I noticed a few things:

* Updates seem to happen in **bursts rather than continuously**

* There are certain **time windows where changes are more likely**

* The API sometimes reflects updates **earlier than the website**

Nothing super official obviously, but it helped me stop checking randomly throughout the day.

I also ended up wrapping this into a small script that:

* tracks status changes over time

* keeps a simple history (since USCIS only shows current status)

* monitors multiple cases

Not trying to promote anything — just thought this might be useful for others going through the same waiting game.

Curious if anyone else has noticed similar patterns?

for the tool, try search on github with **uscis-case-api-monitor**

Hello! Anybody here who filed Vawa and switched to Marriage based adjustment. Same abuser and but

The Relationship is genuinely stable now.

Can u please share your experience if there were no complications knowing USCIS also can see that you applied for Vawa and is pending.

Was the marriage bases successful and u got your greencard?

Vawa is dreadfully long but ofcourse is a protection and hope. But Marriage based is faster to process.

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some guidance on my current situation and next steps. I’d really appreciate any advice from people who’ve gone through something similar.

Here’s my situation:

1. STEM OPT Extension (Filed Feb 24, 2026 – normal processing, no premium yet)

My current EAD expires on May 23, 2026.

How long should I realistically wait before considering upgrading to premium processing?

When would be the best time to file Form I-907 if needed? (Premium fee is now $1,780.)

I understand there’s a 180-day automatic extension since I filed on time, but not sure how long I should rely on that before taking action.

2. Texas Driver’s License Renewal

My DL will likely expire around the same time as my EAD.

Can I renew using:

• STEM OPT I-797 receipt notice (with 180-day auto-extension)?

• OR pending I-485 + I-765 (marriage-based AOS) receipt notices?

What documents should I bring to DPS?

Should I go at least 30 days early due to possible SAVE verification delays?

3. If STEM OPT is Delayed or Denied (Worst Case)

Since I already have a pending I-485 and I-765 (c)(9) through my spouse ( green card holder ), will I still be in lawful status?

Can I continue working once the AOS-based EAD is approved?

How does this interact with the STEM OPT process?

Main Concern:

What’s the best strategy right now to stay in status and avoid any gaps in work authorization?

Should I upgrade to premium processing soon?

Rely on AOS as backup?

Or do both?

I filed STEM OPT on time, so I know I have the 180-day auto-extension, but I want to plan carefully and avoid any risks.

Also any update how long does it take for EAD card through my spouse and how long for green card?

Any insights or experiences would really help. Thanks in advance 🙏