Ask for a person-by-person calculation under the current official instructions. The principal applicant's figure should not be assumed to include a spouse or children; the government describes additional family-member charges.
Check the people included before comparing totals
Give the adviser the proposed family list and ask which applicants the quotation actually covers. Identify any child-age question separately from the cost calculation. If one person would join later, raise that before relying on the proposed initial application.
Keep the government gift and processing charges distinct from professional fees. An affordable total does not establish family eligibility, and a payment should not be treated as a guarantee that everyone receives residence together. Each included spouse or eligible unmarried child under 21 entails a US$1 million gift and US$15,000 nonrefundable processing fee, including families of corporate-sponsored principals.
The FAQ recommends inclusion with the initial application. Review any CSPA issue individually; immigration eligibility and visa availability remain separate from payment.