Updated May 2026

Form N-400 Processing Time at National Benefits Center

Processes certain adjustment of status and naturalization cases. Receipt numbers begin with MSC.

Current processing range
1224months

N-400 processing includes biometrics, interview, and oath ceremony. The oath ceremony is the final step to becoming a US citizen.

About the NBC
Full name
National Benefits Center
Location
Lee's Summit, MO
Receipt prefix
MSC
Common abbreviation
NBC
Center notes

Handles pre-interview processing for I-485 cases before transfer to local field offices. May also process some cases without a field office interview.

How to confirm your case is at the NBC

Your receipt number on Form I-797C (Notice of Action) begins with a 3-letter code that identifies which USCIS service center received your application.

Your receipt number starts with:
MSCXXXXXXXXXX
= Your case is at the National Benefits Center

If your receipt number starts with a different prefix, your case is at a different service center. See all service centers for Form N-400

Check official processing times
See USCIS's current estimates for your exact form type and category
USCIS processing times →

Frequently asked questions

How long does Form N-400 take at the NBC in 2026?+
Form N-400 at the USCIS National Benefits Center currently takes approximately 12–24 months. N-400 processing includes biometrics, interview, and oath ceremony. The oath ceremony is the final step to becoming a US citizen.
How do I know if my Form N-400 is at the NBC?+
Check your Form I-797C (Notice of Action) receipt number. If it starts with "MSC", your case is at the National Benefits Center. Processes certain adjustment of status and naturalization cases. Receipt numbers begin with MSC.
What does a MSC receipt number mean?+
MSC receipt numbers are issued by the USCIS National Benefits Center in Lee's Summit, MO. The prefix identifies which service center processed your filing.
Is the NBC faster or slower than other USCIS service centers?+
Processing times vary by form type and current workload. Handles pre-interview processing for I-485 cases before transfer to local field offices. May also process some cases without a field office interview. Always check the official USCIS processing times page for the most current estimates.
Can I request expedited processing of my Form N-400 at the NBC?+
Yes. USCIS allows expedite requests for qualifying situations: severe financial loss, urgent humanitarian reasons, US government interests, or USCIS error. Submit your request through your online USCIS account or by calling 1-800-375-5283.

Form N-400 at other service centers

Form N-400 at CSC (WAC) →Form N-400 at VSC (EAC) →Form N-400 at NSC (LIN) →Form N-400 at TSC (SRC) →Form N-400 at PSC (IOE) →

Got a status update on your Form N-400 from the NBC? Paste it in for a plain-English explanation.

Decode your status message →

GreenLight is an independent tool and is NOT affiliated with USCIS, DHS, or any US government agency. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. Always verify at my.uscis.gov.