USCIS Receipting Update
Posted Sep 07, 2007
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The USCIS issued an update on August 31, 2007 regarding progress in the issuing of receipts for recently-filed cases. As was explained in our August 10, 2007 MurthyBulletin article, Delays in Issuance of USCIS Receipt Notices - August 2007, the USCIS is experiencing a "front log" of cases awaiting data entry and receipting. This is due to the extraordinary volume of cases filed in the last month or two. The USCIS will provide weekly updates on their current receipt processing to keep the public informed. The most recent Notice is available on the USCIS WebSite.
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NSC Update on I-485, I-765, and I-131 Receipt Notices
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While the USCIS is having difficulty processing receipts, the latest notice does indicate some progress. The Nebraska Service Center (NSC) reports that it is processing receipts for employment-based I-485 (Application for Adjustment of Status) filings received on July 26, 2007, as well as I-131 (Advance Parole) and I-765 (Employment Authorization Document) cases received on the same day. This represents substantial progress from the earlier report. Of course, many chose not to file during the early part of July, following the USCIS's July 2nd announcement that it would not accept I-485 cases. Many waited and only filed their I-485s after that initial announcement was retracted on July 17, 2007.
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TSC Slower than NSC
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The Texas Service Center (TSC) is still processing employment-based I-485, I-131, and I-765 receipts for cases filed on June 30, 2007. At the Murthy Law Firm, we have received some inquiries regarding the discrepancy between the NSC and the TSC. There are always at least slight differences in the pace of processing and in backlogs between the different service centers. Historically, these differences often have been quite significant. Now there is less variance, but there will always be disparities due to volume, staffing, priorities, and other such issues.
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Conclusion - Receipt Notices are Often Delayed
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There is no cause for worry among those who filed cases before the stated dates, but who have not yet received their receipts. Processing date information is not an exact science. Many receipts continue to arrive at the Murthy Law Firm, but they do not come in perfect order according to date. If the receipt notice has not arrived, one may continue to look for confirmation that the filing fee checks have been cashed. This is a good indication that one's case has been accepted for filing. The USCIS also provides the receipt number on the back of the cashed check.