When it comes to hiring new employees in the United States, employers are required to verify the identity and employment eligibility of their workers for those hired after November 6, 1986. This is where the I-9 form and E-Verify come into play. But what exactly are these documents and how do they work?
What is an I-9 form?
The I-9 form, also known as the Employment Eligibility Verification form, is a document that all employers must have their employees fill out to verify their identity and authorization to work in the United States. This form is used to ensure that individuals are legally allowed to work in the country and helps employers avoid hiring individuals who are not authorized to work.
What is E-Verify?
E-Verify is an Internet-based system that allows businesses to determine the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. This system compares information from an employee's I-9 form to data from U.S. government records to confirm employment eligibility. E-Verify is a fast and secure way for employers to verify the employment eligibility of their workers.
How do the I-9 form and E-Verify work together?
While the I-9 form is a document that all employees must fill out, E-Verify is an optional program that employers can use to further verify the employment eligibility of their workers. By using E-Verify in conjunction with the I-9 form, employers can ensure that they are hiring individuals who are legally allowed to work in the United States.
Why are the I-9 form and E-Verify important?
Ensuring that employees are legally authorized to work in the United States is not only a legal requirement for employers, but it also helps maintain a level playing field for all workers. By verifying the employment eligibility of their employees, employers can avoid potential legal issues and penalties, while also promoting a fair and lawful work environment.