I-9 Basics

Wednesday, March 10th, 2010 | Human Resources

The I-9 form is required by the Department of Homeland Security for all new employees in order to verify eligibility for employment in the United States.

New hires choose which documents to provide from specific lists that are included in the I-9 form, which can be downloaded or printed from the DHS website (FORM). Once the documents are verified for accuracy there is no need to retain a copy of the docs but if you prefer, you can keep a copy. However, if copies are kept for one person, they must be kept for everyone.

The form itself has had quite a few recent updates. The most current form was revised in August 2009 and expires in August 2012. It is important to use the most current form; however, the revision dated February 2009 is also accepted.

I-9’s must be retained for three years after the hire date, or one year after employment ends, whichever is later.

I-9 requirements are multi-faceted and there are many complexities. For specific issues check with an employment law attorney or subscribe to our consulting service – BizAssure.

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