What Is E-Verify For Form I-9?

Discover how E-Verify is used in relation to Form I-9 and its significance in the employment eligibility verification process.

Understanding E-Verify and Form I-9

Though they are related, E-Verify and Form I-9 are distinct from one another.

E-Verify is an internet-based system that allows employers to verify the employment eligibility of their employees in the United States. Form I-9 is a document that employers are required to complete for each employee to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the country.

By using E-Verify in conjunction with Form I-9, employers can ensure that their workforce is legally authorized to work in the United States.

Benefits of Using E-Verify for Form I-9 Compliance

Using E-Verify for Form I-9 compliance offers several benefits for employers:

1. Increased accuracy: E-Verify can help reduce errors and discrepancies in the employment verification process, ensuring that employees are properly authorized to work.
2. Streamlined process: E-Verify automates the verification process, making it faster and more efficient for employers.
3. Legal compliance: Utilizing E-Verify helps employers comply with federal laws and regulations regarding employment eligibility verification.
4. Protection against penalties: By using E-Verify, employers can mitigate the risk of penalties and fines for hiring unauthorized workers.

Legal Requirements and Regulations

Employers are legally required to complete Form I-9 for each employee hired, regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. Again, each and every employee hired must complete Form I-9 or their employers are out of compliance. 

When it comes to using E-Verify, however, employers have a choice. 

When using E-Verify, employers must follow specific guidelines and regulations, including:

1. Informing employees about the use of E-Verify and obtaining their consent.
2. Completing the E-Verify process within three business days after the employee's hire date.
3. Properly storing and maintaining Form I-9 records and E-Verify results.

It is important for employers to stay updated on any changes or updates to the legal requirements and regulations surrounding E-Verify and Form I-9 compliance.

Common Misconceptions About E-Verify

There are several common misconceptions about E-Verify that should be clarified:

1. E-Verify is not a background check: E-Verify is used to verify employment eligibility, not to conduct background checks on employees.
2. E-Verify is not discriminatory: E-Verify is designed to treat all employees equally and does not discriminate based on race, national origin, or citizenship status.
3. E-Verify does not replace Form I-9: E-Verify is used in conjunction with Form I-9 to verify employment eligibility, but it does not replace the need for completing Form I-9.
4. E-Verify is not foolproof: While E-Verify can help detect potential identity fraud or unauthorized employment, it is not infallible and may occasionally produce false positives or negatives.

Best Practices for Employers Using E-Verify

To ensure effective and compliant use of E-Verify, employers should consider the following best practices:

1. Stay informed: Regularly review updates and changes to E-Verify policies and procedures to maintain compliance.
2. Consistency: Apply E-Verify consistently to all new hires to avoid potential discrimination claims.
3. Document retention: Maintain accurate and organized records of Form I-9 and E-Verify results for the required period of time.
4. Seek legal guidance: Consult with legal professionals specializing in immigration and employment law to ensure compliance with E-Verify and Form I-9 requirements.

TrendSource Virtual I-9 Verifications with E-Verify

TrendSource offers virtual I-9 verification services with integrated E-Verify functionality.

This streamlined solution allows employers to efficiently complete the Form I-9 process and verify employment eligibility using E-Verify. This is done over a video chat, in which the New Hire presents their documents to a TrendSource Verification Specialist. 

By utilizing TrendSource's Virtual I-9 Verifications with E-Verify, employers can save time, reduce errors, and ensure compliance with employment verification regulations.