Quick answer
What is USCIS Form G-1041 used for?
Use this form to request a search of USCIS historical indices. (To obtain copies of USCIS historical records, use Form G-1041A, Genealogy Records Request.) When we receive your request, we will determine whether any USCIS records exist on the subject and, if such records exist, will capture the file number and other identifiers of each record.
Choose G-1041 when you need an index search
G-1041 answers a discovery question: does the USCIS Genealogy Program have a historical record for this person, and what identifier belongs to it? A successful search can return the file number and other record identifiers. It does not replace the separate records-request step and should not be treated as an order for copies.
Use names, alternate spellings, birth information, immigration details, and other identifying facts consistently so USCIS can distinguish the subject from people with similar names. If the subject was born less than 100 years ago, review the official proof-of-death requirements. Save the search response because its identifiers can support a later G-1041A request for the actual historical record.
Before paying for an index search, check whether your family papers already contain a USCIS, INS, naturalization, visa, or alien file number. Record the exact sources of every name and date you submit. That research log helps you interpret a negative or ambiguous search result and prepare a more precise follow-up.
What to prepare before filling G-1041
- 01
Confirm that Form G-1041, Genealogy Index Search Request, matches the specific benefit, request, verification, or record you need.
- 02
Download the current Form G-1041 and its separate instructions from USCIS, then compare the edition date before typing any answers.
- 03
For Form G-1041, collect the identity records, receipt or account numbers, dates, addresses, and prior immigration documents that support your answers.
- 04
Follow the official Form G-1041 filing method and address; do not assume it can be submitted through a USCIS online account.
Current official filing details
The details below are condensed from the USCIS page reviewed on 2026-07-26. Follow the official page and instructions if they differ from this snapshot.
Edition date
04/01/24. You can find the edition date at the bottom of the page on the form and instructions.
Where to file
You generally have two options for filing your Form G-1041 with USCIS: • Online; or • By mail (paper). Filing Online Please visit our USCIS Genealogy Program page for more information on how to file your genealogical request online and pay the associated fee.
Filing by Mail Mail your completed form and payment to our Chicago Lockbox. U.S.
Postal Service (USPS), FedEx, UPS and DHL deliveries: USCIS Attn: Genealogy Program P.O. Box 805925 Chicago, IL 60680-4188
Filing fee
You can find the filing fee for Form G-1041 by visiting our Fee Schedule page.
Initial evidence
Did you provide the following? Documentary proof of death if the person was less than 100 years old: Death certificate (uncertified copy); Printed obituaries, funeral programs, or photographs of gravestones; Bible, church, or other religious records; U.S.
Social Security Death Index records (individual records only, not lists); Records relating to the payment of death benefits; or Other documents demonstrating the immigrant of the request is deceased.
Official G-1041 downloads and filing links
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What is Form G-1041 used for?
Use Form G-1041 to request a search of USCIS historical indices. (To obtain copies of USCIS historical records, use Form G-1041A, Genealogy Records Request.)
How much does Form G-1041 cost?
You can find the filing fee for Form G-1041 by visiting our Fee Schedule page.
Can I file Form G-1041 online?
The USCIS all-forms directory does not list a general online filing option for this form. Follow the official page for the required filing method.
Related USCIS form guides
Records, verification & appeals
Form G-1041A
Genealogy Records Request
Records, verification & appeals
Form G-639
Freedom of Information/Privacy Act and Online FOIA Request
Records, verification & appeals
Form G-845
Verification Request
Records, verification & appeals
Form G-884
Request for the Return of Original Documents
Records, verification & appeals
Form G-1566
Request for Certificate of Non-Existence
Records, verification & appeals
Form I-290B
Notice of Appeal or Motion
Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Independent guide by Clerks AI; not affiliated with USCIS and not legal advice.
Last researched 2026-07-26. Recheck the official page before filing.