Reminder: Employers Must Use New Form I-9 -
Tuesday, January 31, 2017
As a reminder, employers should note that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released a new version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. As of January 22, 2017, employers must use the updated form.
Background
Federal law requires employers to hire only individuals who may legally work in the United States--either U.S. citizens or foreign citizens who have the necessary authorization. To comply with the law, employers must verify the identity and employment authorization of each person they hire by completing and retaining Form I-9.
New Form I-9 and Dates
As of January 22, 2017, employers must use the "11/14/2016 N" version of Form I-9 to verify the identity and work eligibility of every new employee, or for the reverification of expiring employment authorization of current employees (if applicable). This date is found on the lower left hand corner of the form.
Prior versions of the form will no longer be valid for use. Employers who fail to use Form I-9 "11/14/2016 N" on or after January 22, 2017 may be subject to any and all applicable penalties under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Employers should continue to follow existing storage and retention rules for each previously completed Form I-9.
Note: The instructions for completing Form I-9 are now separate from the form.
For more information on complying with employment eligibility verification requirements, please visit our section on Form I-9.