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Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I find my USCIS receipt number?
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Your receipt number is on Form I-797 (Notice of Action) that USCIS sends after receiving your petition. It's 13 characters: 3 letters + 10 digits (e.g., EAC2390123456). It may also be called an "application receipt number" or "case receipt number." If you haven't received an I-797 within 2-4 weeks of filing, contact your attorney or USCIS.
What does "Case Was Received" mean?
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"Case Was Received" means USCIS accepted your petition and it's in their queue. No action needed — wait for the next status update. Processing times vary by form type and service center. Use our Processing Time Tracker to see current estimates for your form type.
I got a Request for Evidence (RFE). What do I do?
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An RFE means USCIS needs more documentation before deciding your case. You have typically 87 days to respond (the exact deadline is on the RFE notice). Missing the deadline = automatic denial. Work with an immigration attorney immediately — RFE responses require careful preparation. Do not submit partial responses.
What do the receipt number prefixes mean?
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Receipt number prefixes tell you which USCIS service center is processing your case: EAC = Vermont Service Center, WAC = California Service Center, LIN = Nebraska Service Center, SRC = Texas Service Center, NBC/MSC = National Benefits Center, YSC = Potomac Service Center, IOE = Online filing (myUSCIS). Different form types are routed to different centers based on your location and employer address.
How often does USCIS update case status?
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USCIS updates case status when adjudicators take action — there's no set schedule. You may see no updates for weeks or months, then multiple updates in one day. Status changes typically happen when: your case is assigned for review, an officer sends correspondence (RFE, NOID), biometrics are taken, an interview is scheduled, or a decision is made. The most reliable way to stay current is to check regularly or use an alert service.
My case is outside normal processing times. What should I do?
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If your case exceeds the published processing time on the USCIS website, you can: (1) Submit a case inquiry at egov.uscis.gov, (2) Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283, (3) File a mandamus lawsuit if significantly delayed, or (4) Contact your Congressional representative's office. Document all dates carefully before taking action.