It also explains how it differs from other USCIS numbers and what to do if you cannot locate it. What you receive and where it appears can vary based on how you filed and your specific situation.
USCIS procedures and online features can change, so follow the instructions on your current notice and in your online account.
Quick Answer: What Is a USCIS Account Number?
- What it is: An ID for your USCIS online account, not a specific case.
- Who gets one: Typically online filers, plus some people who link a paper case to an online account.
- When it’s assigned: Often after USCIS connects an online account to a filing, not always at account creation.
- Where it appears: In the myUSCIS profile and sometimes on notices about online access.
- What it’s used for: Online case access, messages, and organizing filings.
- Whether everyone has one: No. Some applicants never receive one and may leave it blank when allowed.
What Is a USCIS Account Number?
A USCIS account is an online-only identifier for your myUSCIS profile. It supports online case tools such as viewing a case in your dashboard, receiving digital notices, and sending messages when those options are available.
It is different from other identifiers. A receipt number tracks one filing, while an A-Number is used to identify a person’s immigration record in many contexts.
Who Gets a USCIS Online Account Number?
A USCIS online account number is typically associated with these groups.
- Online filers
- Paper filers invited to create an account
- Petitioners (U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents filing for relatives)
- Attorneys and accredited representatives (depending on the filing type and online system)
Where to Find Your USCIS Account Number
You can usually find it in these places.
- Your USCIS online account profile: Log in, open your profile or settings, and look for “USCIS Online Account Number.”
- USCIS notices about online access: Review notices such as an Online Account Access Notice and look for “USCIS Online Account Number.”
If you cannot find it in either location, you may not have one yet. In most cases, you can still track a case using the receipt number.
USCIS Account Number vs A-Number vs Receipt Number
|
Identifier |
What it identifies |
Where it’s found |
Common use |
|
USCIS Online Account Number |
Online account |
myUSCIS profile, some notices |
Linking and managing cases online |
|
A-Number |
Person’s immigration record |
Green card, EAD, some notices |
Identity across many benefits |
|
Receipt Number |
One filing |
Receipt notice |
Tracking one application or petition |
Why the USCIS Account Number Is Important
- Case tracking: Keeps cases organized in one dashboard.
- Online communication: Supports messages and digital notices when offered.
- Identity verification: Helps confirm the correct account is linked to the correct case.
- Managing multiple filings: Useful if you file more than one form over time.
- Long-term use: Can remain tied to your account for future online filings.
How to Create a USCIS Online Account
- Visit the USCIS website and select “Create an account.”
- Enter an email address and create a password.
- Verify your email using the link or code sent to you.
- Complete your profile and required security steps.
- Sign in to confirm access to your dashboard.
How to Find or Recover a Lost USCIS Account Number
- Problem: Forgot username. Solution: Check which email address received USCIS account messages, then try signing in with that email.
- Problem: Forgot password. Solution: Use the password reset option on the login page.
- Problem: Logged in but cannot find it. Solution: Open your profile or settings and look for the account number field.
- Problem: Still cannot access the account. Solution: Use USCIS online account help resources or contact USCIS.
Troubleshooting USCIS Online Account Issues
- Try another browser, clear cache and cookies, and disable extensions that may block scripts.
- Confirm you are using the correct account if you created more than one login.
- If you filed by mail, confirm the case is linked using the access code on your notice.
- If you still cannot resolve the issue, use USCIS technical support options or contact the USCIS Contact Center. Have your receipt number available.
USCIS Online Accounts for Petitioners and Attorneys
Petitioners filing for relatives
Petitioners may use online accounts to file supported petitions and track more than one family case in one place when online features are available.
Attorneys managing multiple cases
Attorneys and representatives may use online tools to monitor multiple matters, but receipt numbers and official notices remain important for tracking deadlines.
Key Takeaways
- A USCIS account number identifies a myUSCIS online account.
- It is different from an A-Number and a receipt number.
- It is commonly found in your myUSCIS profile or on online access notices.
- Not everyone is issued a USCIS online account number.
- Receipt numbers remain the main way to track a specific filing.
For more immigration guidance and resources, visit ImmigrationQuestion.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a USCIS Account Number?
It is an identifier for a USCIS online account used to support online access for certain filings.
- Where can I find my USCIS Account Number?
Check your myUSCIS profile and notices about online access, including an Online Account Access Notice.
- Is a USCIS Account Number the same as an A-Number?
No. An A-Number identifies a person’s immigration record, while the USCIS account number identifies an online account. - Who is issued a USCIS Account Number?
It is typically issued to online filers and some people who link a paper filing to an online account, including some petitioners and representatives.
- Do I need a USCIS Account Number to file immigration forms online?
Usually not. You can create an online account and file supported forms, and an account number may appear if USCIS assigns one.
- What should I do if I lost or can’t find my USCIS Account Number?
Restore access to your online account, then check your profile. If you cannot access it, use USCIS help options or contact USCIS.
- Is my USCIS Account Number required for paper-filed applications?
Usually no. Paper cases are typically tracked with the receipt number unless USCIS provides instructions to link the case online.
- Is it safe to share my USCIS Account Number with an immigration lawyer or representative?
Share it only with a licensed attorney or accredited representative you trust, and do not share your password or security codes.
