USCIS Form G-1145 Instructions: How to Request an E-Notification When You File
Form G-1145 is a free, optional form that lets you request a text message and/or email notification from USCIS when your immigration application or petition is accepted for processing. It must be filed alongside a primary USCIS application. It cannot be submitted on its own.
Purpose of Form G-1145
Form G-1145 exists purely for the applicant's convenience. Submitting it triggers an automated e-notification once USCIS accepts your primary application for processing. The notification does not grant any immigration benefit or change your application in any way. It is simply an early signal that your paperwork has cleared the initial review stage.
Whether or not you file Form G-1145, USCIS will mail you a formal receipt notice. There is no penalty for skipping it — many applicants find it useful as early confirmation, but it is entirely at your discretion.
How to Complete Form G-1145
Form G-1145 is a one-page form. USCIS instructs you to enter your name exactly as it appears on your primary application. For example, if you are filing Form N-400, use the same legal name that appears on your N-400.
You will also provide contact information. At least one of the following is required:
- Email address
- U.S. phone number
USCIS does not send text messages to non-U.S. phone numbers. If your phone number is outside the United States, provide your email address instead.
You can download Form G-1145 at no cost directly from uscis.gov or you can prepare G-1145 at no cost through CitizenPath.
Lockbox Filing Requirement
Form G-1145 can only be used with paper-based applications filed at a USCIS lockbox facility. Lockbox facilities are centralized locations where USCIS receives applications and processes filing fees. Not all USCIS forms are filed at lockboxes, so Form G-1145 is not compatible with every application.
Commonly used forms that qualify include:
- Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
- Form I-485, Application to Adjust Status (most application types)
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (most application types)
- Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status
- Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
Before filing, check the instructions for your primary form on uscis.gov to confirm it is directed to a lockbox location. File Form G-1145 at the same mailing address as your primary application, and place it on top of the application package before mailing.
E-Notification vs. the I-797C Receipt Notice
The G-1145 e-notification and the I-797C receipt notice are not the same thing, and it is important to understand the difference.
Form G-1145 Is For Your Convenience
Typically, USCIS sends the G-1145 e-notification within 24 hours of accepting your application for processing. It's a helpful way to get confirmation that you filing package was received and accepted by USCIS.
Note: Acceptance does not happen the same day USCIS receives your mail. Before formally accepting an application, USCIS typically reviews its completeness and processes the filing fee — a process that can take several days after your package arrives.
Receipt Notice Is Official Proof
Form I-797C, Notice of Action, is your official receipt notice. Generally, USCIS mails it within approximately 2-4 weeks of accepting your application.
Unlike the e-notification, the I-797C serves as official evidence that your application is pending with USCIS. It also contains your receipt number, which you will need to track your case. Even if USCIS rejects your application, you will receive an I-797C notice explaining the reason.
Tracking Your Case After Filing
Your receipt number appears on both your G-1145 e-notification and your I-797C receipt notice. This 13-character number begins with three letters — such as EAC, IOE, WAC, LIN, or SRC — and is unique to your case.
You can use it to monitor your case status on USCIS.gov. CitizenPath also provides user-friendly explanations and an online tool to check USCIS case status →
Form G-1145 Frequently Asked Questions
How CitizenPath Helps You File Correctly
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