Get your fillable Form I 9 2023-2025

About Form I 9

Form I-9 is a document used by employers in the United States to verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment. Here are some relevant points about Form I-9: 1. Purpose of Form I-9: The primary purpose of Form I-9 is to establish that an employer has verified the identity and eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. 2. Importance of completing Form I-9: It is crucial for employers to properly complete Form I-9 for each employee because failing to do so can result in civil and criminal penalties. 3. Definition of eligible employees: Form I-9 must be completed by both U.S. citizens and noncitizens. However, noncitizens should provide additional documentation to prove their eligibility to work in the country. 4. Documentation required: Employees are required to present specific documents to their employer that establish both identity and employment authorization. These documents can vary depending on an individual's immigration status. 5. Retention of Form I-9: Employers are mandated to retain a completed copy of Form I-9 for each employee for a specific duration. The form should be retained for either three years after the date of hire or for one year after the employee's employment is terminated, whichever is later. 6. Compliance audits: The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency conducts periodic audits to ensure employers are complying with the regulations related to Form I-9. It is important for employers to maintain accurate and up-to-date records to avoid penalties during these audits. 7. Remote verification: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has temporarily allowed employers to inspect and verify employee documents virtually. This allows for a more flexible process while adhering to public health guidelines. 8. E-Verify system: While Form I-9 establishes an employee's eligibility to work, E-Verify is an optional web-based system that allows employers to verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees electronically. 9. Non-compliance consequences: Employers who fail to complete Form I-9 or knowingly hire unauthorized individuals may face repercussions, such as fines, penalties, or even criminal charges. It is crucial to understand the legal obligations and follow the guidelines related to this form. 10. Detailed instructions available: The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides comprehensive instructions for completing Form I-9. Employers and employees can refer to these instructions for guidance during the process of verification.