N-400 Filing Fee 2026 - Cost Breakdown

Becoming a U.S. citizen is the final milestone in your immigration journey. It grants you the right to vote, travel with a U.S. passport, and bring family members to the United States more easily. However, before you can take the Oath of Allegiance, you must navigate the application process and cover the associated costs.

One of the most common questions we receive is about the price tag. Understanding the N-400 filing fee - cost breakdown is essential for budgeting correctly. In 2026, the costs involve more than just writing a check to the government. You need to consider preparation fees, potential hidden costs, and the risk of mistakes that could force you to pay twice.

This guide will walk you through every dollar you need to spend to become a naturalized U.S. citizen.

The Standard N-400 Filing Fee

The primary cost of naturalization is the fee paid directly to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). As of 2026, the standard fee for filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is $760.

This fee covers the government’s cost to process your application, run background checks, conduct your interview, and administer the Oath of Allegiance.

Is Biometrics Included?

In the past, applicants had to pay a separate $85 fee for biometrics (fingerprinting and photos). However, under the current fee structure, the biometrics fee is generally included in the main $760 filing fee for most applicants. This simplifies the process, as you only need to make a single payment to the government.

Online vs. Paper Filing

USCIS sometimes differentiates fees based on how you file. While filing online is often encouraged for efficiency, many applicants prefer paper filing to ensure they have a physical paper trail of exactly what was sent. Greenbroad assists with preparing your package to ensure it meets all government standards, regardless of the submission method.

Breakdown of All Potential Costs

While the $760 government fee is the headline number, the real cost of naturalization often includes other expenses. Here is a detailed N-400 filing fee - cost breakdown to help you plan your budget.

1. Government Filing Fee ($760)

This is mandatory for all applicants unless you qualify for a fee waiver.

2. Application Preparation Fees ($0 - $3,000+)

You have three main options for preparing your N-400:

• DIY (Do It Yourself): $0. You fill out the forms yourself. This is free but risky. If you make a mistake, you might lose your filing fee or face delays.
• Greenbroad: $749. We offer a flat-fee service that bridges the gap between DIY and expensive lawyers. We prepare your forms, compile your document checklist, and guide you through the filing process. This reduces stress and minimizes the risk of errors.
• Immigration Attorney: $2,000 - $3,000+. Hiring a traditional law firm is the most expensive option. While necessary for complex legal cases (like those with serious criminal records), it is often an over-expenditure for standard applications.

3. Hidden and Incidental Costs

• Passport Photos ($15 - $20): You may need to provide two identical color passport-style photos if you reside outside the U.S., though many domestic applicants have photos taken at their biometrics appointment.
• Postage and Shipping ($10 - $50): We always recommend sending your application via certified mail or a courier service (like FedEx or UPS) with tracking. This proves that USCIS received your package.
• Translations ($50 - $200): If you submit documents that are not in English (like a marriage certificate or birth certificate), they must include a certified English translation.
• Travel Costs: You will need to travel to a USCIS Application Support Center for biometrics and later to a Field Office for your interview. Depending on where you live, this could cost money for gas, parking, or public transit.

Fee Waivers and Reductions

Not everyone has to pay the full $760. USCIS offers financial relief for low-income applicants. There are two tiers of relief: the Reduced Fee and the Full Fee Waiver.

The Reduced Fee (Form I-942)

If your documented household income is greater than 150% but not more than 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you may qualify for a reduced filing fee.

• Process: You must file Form I-942 (Request for Reduced Fee) along with your N-400.
• Benefit: You pay a significantly lower amount (often half the standard fee) rather than the full $760.

The Full Fee Waiver (Form I-912)

You may be able to pay $0 if you meet one of the following criteria:

1. Means-Tested Benefit: You or your spouse receive a benefit like Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), or SSI.
2. Income Level: Your household income is at or under 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
3. Financial Hardship: You can prove a current financial hardship (such as unexpected medical bills or unemployment).

To request this, you must file Form I-912 along with your application.

How to Pay the N-400 Fee

USCIS is very strict about how they accept payments. Sending cash is not allowed. Here are the accepted methods:

1. Check or Money Order

This is the most common method for mail-in applications.

• Make it payable to: “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” (Do not use initials like “DHS” or “USDHS”).
• Date: Use the current date (American format: MM/DD/YYYY).
• Amount: Exactly $760.00.
• Memo line: Write “N-400” and your Alien Registration Number (A-Number) if you have it.

2. Credit Card

You can pay with a Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover card.

• How to do it: You must fill out Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions) and place it on top of your application package.
• Risk: If your bank flags the transaction as fraud or declines it for any reason, USCIS will reject your application instantly. They will not try the card a second time.

Is the Cost Worth It?

Looking at an N-400 filing fee - cost breakdown of roughly $1,500 (filing fee + preparation service) can feel daunting. However, it is helpful to view this as an investment rather than an expense.

Financial Benefits of Citizenship

• No Renewals: Green cards must be renewed every 10 years, which currently costs nearly $500 per renewal. Citizenship is for life; you never pay a renewal fee again.
• Federal Jobs: Many government jobs with excellent benefits and pensions are available only to U.S. citizens.
• Grants and Scholarships: Certain college scholarships and government grants are reserved for citizens.

Security Benefits

• Deportation Protection: As a citizen, you cannot be deported. Green card holders can still be deported for certain crimes or extended absences from the U.S.
• Travel Freedom: The U.S. passport is one of the most powerful in the world, allowing visa-free travel to over 180 countries. You also no longer need to worry about re-entry permits if you stay outside the U.S. for long periods (though you must maintain tax compliance).

See Benefits of US Citizenship Over Green Card to learn more about why thousands of people apply every month.

Common Financial Mistakes to Avoid

We have seen many applicants waste money or delay their cases due to simple errors. Here is how to protect your investment:

1. Sending the Wrong Amount

If you send a check for $759 or $761 instead of exactly $760, the computer system at the USCIS lockbox will reject it. The entire package comes back to you.

2. Signing the Check Incorrectly

The check must be signed by the account holder. We have seen applications rejected because the signature was missing or the date was formatted incorrectly.

3. Paying a Scam Site

There are many “copycat” websites that look like government sites. They may charge you just to download the free PDF forms. Remember, you can download forms for free from the official government site. You should only pay for service (like Greenbroad) or filing fees (to the Department of Homeland Security).

4. Applying Before You Are Eligible

The filing fee is non-refundable. If you apply for citizenship but haven’t met the continuous residence requirement (usually 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), USCIS will deny your case and keep the $760. Always check your eligibility dates carefully.

Read more about eligibility at Citizenship Naturalization Requirements: The 2026 Guide.

Processing Time vs. Cost

Does paying more speed up the process? Generally, no. There is currently no “Premium Processing” available for Form N-400. Whether you are a billionaire or applying with a fee waiver, you are in the same line.

However, accuracy speeds up the process.

• A messy application: If USCIS has to send a “Request for Evidence” (RFE) because you forgot a document, your case pauses. This can add 3-6 months to your wait time.
• A clean application: A well-prepared package moves smoothly through the system.

This is where Greenbroad provides value. By ensuring your application is complete and correct the first time, we help you avoid the delays that cost you time and money.

Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Your Payment

Ready to file? Follow these steps to ensure your payment is processed smoothly.

1. Confirm the Current Fee: Double-check the fee has not changed since this article was published.
2. Choose Your Method: Decide between a personal check, cashier’s check, money order, or credit card. Money orders and cashier’s checks are safest as they cannot “bounce” due to insufficient funds later.
3. Prepare the Instrument:
   • Payee: U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
   • Memo: “N-400 application for [Your Full Name]”.
4. Attach to Application: Use a paperclip to attach the check or Form G-1450 to the very top of your application packet. Do not staple it.
5. Track Your Package: When you mail your package, pay the extra few dollars for tracking. You want to know exactly when it arrives at the USCIS lockbox.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the most common questions about the N-400 filing fee and cost breakdown.

How much does the N-400 application cost in 2026? The standard government filing fee for Form N-400 is $760. This fee generally includes the cost for biometric services, so you do not need to pay a separate biometrics fee in most cases.

Can I pay the N-400 fee with a credit card? Yes, you can pay the filing fee using a credit card. If filing by mail, you must include Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions) with your application package.

Is the N-400 fee refundable if my application is denied? No, USCIS fees are non-refundable. Whether your application is approved, denied, or withdrawn, the government keeps the filing fee to cover the cost of processing your paperwork.

Who is eligible for a reduced N-400 fee or waiver? Applicants with household incomes between 150% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify for a reduced fee. Those with income under 150% or receiving means-tested benefits may qualify for a full fee waiver.

Does the Greenbroad service fee include the government filing fee? No, the Greenbroad service fee of $749 covers the preparation of your application, document review, and support. You must pay the $760 government filing fee separately to the Department of Homeland Security.

Conclusion

The path to U.S. citizenship is a significant financial commitment, but it is one that pays dividends for the rest of your life. By understanding the N-400 filing fee - cost breakdown, you can budget effectively and avoid surprise expenses.

In 2026, you should plan for a government fee of $760. If you want peace of mind that your application is done correctly, consider budgeting an additional $749 for Greenbroad’s expert preparation service. Compared to the thousands of dollars charged by law firms, this offers a balance of affordability and professional support.

Don’t let a payment error or a simple form mistake jeopardize your dream of citizenship. Take the time to prepare, check your numbers, and file with confidence.

Disclaimer: Greenbroad is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. We are a document preparation service. The fees mentioned in this article are accurate as of the last update but are subject to change by the U.S. government. Always verify current fees on official government websites.