How Long Does the Form I-9 Remain Valid?

Completing a Form I-9 for a new employee involves many steps. Compliance requires effort, from collecting the appropriate documentation to possibly creating cases in E-Verify. The consequences of noncompliance might seem distant, especially since you only need to maintain accurate files for your business. However, a company could slip into noncompliance in some areas, even with the best intentions in mind.

How Long Should an Employer Retain a Form I-9?

Virtually every business in the United States faces requirements for completing and maintaining Form I-9. This form is unique because companies do not file this information with any regulatory body or government agency. Instead, the employer is responsible for maintaining accurate records. You must furnish them upon request by an enforcing agency, which may occur for several reasons.

Tips for More Efficient Form I-9 Record-keeping

An efficient employee onboarding process is a must-have. The sooner you can make new hires ready for work, the better. Much of this process involves orientation and training. However, you must also fulfill regulatory requirements during onboarding. Chief among these is the completion of the new hire’s Form I-9. The employee and employer must fill out their portions of the form. You must also verify the employee’s supplied identity and authorization documents.