The 2021 Form I-9, also known as the Employment Eligibility Verification Form, is a crucial document used by employers in the United States to verify the identity and employment eligibility of their employees. This form is required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with federal immigration laws.
Overview:
The 2021 Form I-9 is a comprehensive document that consists of three sections, designed to be completed and kept on file by both employers and employees. It is essential in establishing the eligibility of an individual to work legally in the United States and helps prevent unauthorized employment.
Section 1: Employee Information and Attestation
The first section of the 2021 Form I-9 requires employees to provide their personal information, including their full name, date of birth, and contact details. Employees are also required to indicate their citizenship or immigration status and provide the necessary supporting documentation. This section must be completed by the employee on or before their first day of work.
Section 2: Employer Review and Verification
In the second section, employers must carefully review the documents presented by the employee to establish their work authorization and identity. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, permanent resident card, or a combination of other specified documents. The employer must examine the original documents and record the relevant information, ensuring their authenticity. This section should be completed within three business days of the employee’s first day of employment.
Section 3: Reverification and Rehires
The third section of the 2021 Form I-9 is used for reverification purposes. Employers must complete this section if an employee’s work authorization documentation has expired, or if they are rehired within three years of their initial I-9 completion date. This section serves to update and reestablish the employee’s work eligibility.
Importance of Compliance:
Compliance with the 2021 Form I-9 and its guidelines is essential for employers, as failure to comply may result in legal consequences, including penalties and fines imposed by the government. By ensuring accurate completion and retention of this form, employers demonstrate their commitment to complying with immigration laws and maintaining a legal workforce.
Employers should maintain completed 2021 Form I-9s for all current employees, as well as for terminated employees for a specific retention period. Retaining these forms helps employers in case of audits conducted by organizations such as the USCIS, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or the Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Conclusion:
The 2021 Form I-9 is a critical document that facilitates legal employment in the United States while preventing the hiring of unauthorized workers. Employers must meticulously comply with the requirements outlined in this form to ensure the integrity of their workforce and maintain compliance with federal immigration laws. By understanding and adhering to the guidelines established by USCIS, employers can contribute to a fair and lawful working environment for all employees.
