How to Read a USCIS Receipt Number

It’s not necessary that you understand the details of how to read a USCIS receipt number. But you may be curious. It can be very helpful to understand the basics so that you are aware of your case’s location and timeline.

If you submitted a visa petition, adjustment of status, green card renewal, citizenship application, DACA or almost any other USCIS form, the receipt number will allow you to more easily track the status of your case.

Each of the 13 digits in a USCIS receipt number has a specific purpose. Here’s how to read a USCIS receipt number.

Let’s take an example receipt number to explain it:

WAC 11 012 50960

Service Center (WAC 11 012 50960)
Every receipt number begins with three letters that represent the service center that received the case. There are several codes for USCIS service centers. They include:

CSC – California Service Center
EAC – Eastern Adjudication Center (now known as Vermont Service Center)
IOE – ELIS (efile)
LIN – Lincoln Service Center (now known as Nebraska Service Center)
MSC – Missouri Service Center (now known as National Benefits Center)
NBC – National Benefits Center
NSC – Nebraska Service Center
SRC – Southern Regional Center (now known as Texas Service Center)
TSC – Texas Service Center
VSC – Vermont Service Center
WAC – Western Adjudication Center (now known as California Service Center)

Fiscal Year (WAC 11 012 50960)
The second set of digits represent the fiscal year that the case was received. Government agencies use a fiscal year that is different from the calendar year. It begins on October 1 and ends on September 30. So our example case number was opened between October 2010 and September 2011.

Computer Workday (WAC 11 012 50960)
The third set of digits indicates the computer workday that the case was opened. The computer workday is basically the same thing as a workday. Therefore, it excludes most weekends and holidays. Our example case was opened on the 12th workday of the 2011 fiscal year (October 18, 2010).

Case Number (WAC 11 012 50960)
The final set of five digits is the case number.

How to Check USCIS Case Status Online

When you receive your receipt number, you can also verify and track your case by entering the number online. It’s easy to track the status of your case on the USCIS website. Follow these simple steps to check your case status with your USCIS receipt number:

Lost USCIS Receipt Number

If you have lost your receipt letter with the USCIS receipt number, it can be recovered. Schedule an InfoPass appointment with USCIS. An InfoPass appointment is made through the USCIS website. Generally, it’s the only way to get face-to-face access to a USCIS employee. In most cases, you will not be able to enter a USCIS facility without an appointment. At your InfoPass appointment, you can ask questions about your case and request your receipt number if necessary. Take your passport or other valid identification documents to the appointment.