Hiring a new employee? Then you'll need to familiarize yourself with the I-9 form! Officially known as the Employment Eligibility Verification form, the I-9 is used by employers to verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired to work in the United States.
Both employees *and* employers have responsibilities. Employees must complete Section 1 of the form, attesting to their employment eligibility and providing supporting documentation (like a driver's license or passport). Employers are responsible for reviewing the employee's documentation and completing Section 2 of the I-9 within three business days of the employee's start date.
The form is maintained by the employer, *not* sent to the IRS or USCIS unless specifically requested. Maintaining accurate I-9 records is crucial for compliance. Mistakes can lead to penalties, so double-check everything! The I-9 form is periodically updated, so always use the current version available on the USCIS website to avoid any compliance issues. Keeping your I-9 process streamlined protects your business.
