I 9 2023-2025 Form

What is the Formulario I-9 for Employment Eligibility Verification?

The Formulario I-9, officially known as the I-9 form, is a crucial document used in the United States to verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment. This form is mandated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is a key component of the employment eligibility verification process. Employers are required to complete this form for each new hire, ensuring that all employees are legally authorized to work in the U.S. The I-9 form includes sections for personal information, employment eligibility verification, and the employer's certification.

Steps to Complete the Formulario I-9

Completing the Formulario I-9 involves several straightforward steps. First, the employee must fill out Section 1, providing personal details such as name, address, and date of birth. This section must be completed on or before the first day of employment. Next, the employer must review the employee's documents to verify their identity and employment authorization, completing Section 2. This section requires the employer to record the document title, issuing authority, document number, and expiration date, if applicable. Finally, both the employee and employer must sign and date the form to certify the information provided.

Required Documents for the Formulario I-9

To complete the Formulario I-9, employees must present valid documentation that establishes both identity and employment authorization. The documents are categorized into three lists: List A, which includes documents that establish both identity and employment eligibility, such as a U.S. passport; List B, which includes documents that establish identity, like a driver's license; and List C, which includes documents that establish employment eligibility, such as a Social Security card. Employees must provide either one document from List A or one document from List B and one from List C.

Legal Use of the Formulario I-9

The Formulario I-9 serves a legal purpose in the United States, ensuring compliance with immigration laws. Employers must retain completed I-9 forms for a specified period, typically three years after the date of hire or one year after employment ends, whichever is longer. Failure to properly complete or retain the I-9 can lead to significant penalties, including fines and legal consequences. It is essential for employers to stay informed about the legal requirements surrounding the I-9 form to avoid non-compliance issues.

How to Obtain the Formulario I-9

The Formulario I-9 can be easily obtained through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. The form is available in PDF format, which can be printed and filled out manually, or it can be completed electronically. Employers and employees should ensure they are using the most current version of the form, as updates may occur periodically. Additionally, many businesses opt to use digital solutions to streamline the process of filling out and storing the I-9 form securely.

Penalties for Non-Compliance with the Formulario I-9

Employers who fail to comply with the requirements of the Formulario I-9 may face serious penalties. These can include civil fines for failing to complete the form, as well as criminal penalties for knowingly hiring unauthorized workers. The fines can vary based on the severity of the violation and the number of infractions. It is crucial for employers to maintain accurate records and ensure that all I-9 forms are completed correctly to mitigate the risk of penalties.