when I can apply for the citizenship

[christi]

I have a couple of questions regarding the application of citizenship:

1) I know that I have to wait for 5 years to apply. But from what date to count, from the date of approval of I-485, or actual date of receive the green card approval notice, or the date on passport?

2) Do I really need to wait for 5 years to send in the application? or as somebody told me that I can apply earlier and meet the 5 years requirement at the time that my file is approved?

Thank you in advance!

 

[waitingvsc1]

1) from the time your i-485 got approved.
2) upto 90days before you meet the continues residence requirement.

Check those links from CIS

http://uscis.gov/graphics/services/natz/general.htm
http://uscis.gov/graphics/services/natz/English.pdf ( page 26 )

 

[fitness99]

Normally the I-485 approval date and the date on your USPR card should match (the resident since date).