IRS I-9 Form 2015, also commonly referred to as Form I-9, is a document issued by the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that serves as a verification tool for employers when hiring new employees. This form enables employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of individuals who are to be engaged in work within the United States.
The IRS I-9 Form 2015 is required to be completed by both the employer and the employee. It is crucial for employers to adhere to the guidelines set forth by the IRS in order to comply with the federal immigration law and avoid any legal ramifications. By completing Form I-9, employers affirm their compliance with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regulations.
The purpose of the form is to establish the identity and employment authorization of each employee hired after November 6, 1986, in the United States. Employers are required by law to complete and retain a Form I-9 for each individual they hire for employment, regardless of their citizenship status. The form cross-references information from various documents provided by the employee to establish their identity and work authorization.
Form I-9 is divided into three sections. Section 1 must be completed by the employee no later than the first day of employment. This section requires the employee to provide personal information such as their full legal name, address, date of birth, and Social Security Number (SSN), if applicable. Additionally, the employee must indicate their citizenship status and provide documentation to support their work eligibility.
Section 2 is completed by the employer or their authorized representative. This section requires examination and verification of the employee’s documentation that establishes their identity and employment authorization. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, permanent resident card, employment authorization document, or a combination of documents from the lists provided on the form.
Section 3, if applicable, is completed when employers rehire an employee within three years of their previous Form I-9 being completed or if an employee’s work authorization has expired. This section requires employers to update and reverify the employee’s work authorization status.
It is essential for employers to maintain completed Form I-9s for each employee for a designated period. While the form does not need to be submitted to the IRS, employers must have them available for inspection when requested by authorized U.S. government officials, such as officers from the USCIS or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Noncompliance with Form I-9 requirements can result in severe penalties and fines. Employers must ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information provided on the form, while respecting the privacy and legal rights of the employees. It is advisable for employers to stay informed about any updates or revisions to the Form I-9, as failing to use the most current version can also lead to penalties.
In summary, the IRS I-9 Form 2015 is a legal documentation tool used by employers in the United States to verify the identity and employment eligibility of new hires. Compliance with Form I-9 guidelines is necessary to ensure adherence to federal immigration laws and mitigate legal risks associated with unauthorized employment.
