Essential Elements and Requirements for Completing an I-9 Form- A Comprehensive Guide
What is required for an I-9 form is a crucial question for employers and employees alike, as it is a legal document that verifies the identity and employment authorization of individuals in the United States. The I-9 form, officially known as the “Employment Eligibility Verification,” is a mandatory requirement under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and must be completed by both employers and employees within three days of the employee’s start date. This article will delve into the essential elements that are required for an I-9 form to be considered valid and compliant with the law.
The first requirement for an I-9 form is the completion of the form itself. Both the employer and the employee must fill out the necessary sections of the form. The employer is responsible for reviewing the information provided by the employee and ensuring that the form is completed accurately and legibly. The form is divided into three sections:
1. Section 1: This section is completed by the employee and includes basic personal information such as name, address, date of birth, and citizenship or non-citizenship status. The employee must also indicate the start date of employment and sign the form.
2. Section 2: This section is completed by the employer and requires the employer to examine the employee’s identity and employment authorization documents. The employer must verify that the documents presented are valid and unexpired. Acceptable documents include a driver’s license, passport, social security card, and other government-issued identification cards.
3. Section 3: This section is only required for certain rehires or for employees who have been absent from work for more than 12 months. It involves certifying that the employee’s authorization to work has not expired and that the employee is still authorized to work in the United States.
In addition to completing the form, there are several other requirements for an I-9 form to be considered valid:
– The form must be completed within three days of the employee’s start date.
– Both the employer and the employee must sign the form.
– The form must be retained by the employer for a minimum of three years from the date of hire or one year after the employee’s termination, whichever is later.
– The form must be stored in a secure location and be readily accessible for inspection by government officials upon request.
In conclusion, what is required for an I-9 form includes completing the form accurately and legibly, verifying the employee’s identity and employment authorization, and adhering to the legal deadlines and storage requirements. Employers must take these requirements seriously to ensure compliance with the law and avoid potential penalties for non-compliance.
