What is “I-9 Self Audits” ?
I-9 self-audits involve conducting internal reviews of Form I-9 documents and procedures within a company or organization. Form I-9 is a mandatory employment eligibility verification form required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for all employees hired in the United States.
Here’s a breakdown of what I-9 self-audits entail:
Reviewing Form I-9 Documents
Employers review the accuracy and completeness of Form I-9 documents for all current employees. This includes verifying that each employee has filled out Section 1 of the form correctly and provided acceptable documentation to establish their identity and work authorization in the United States.
Identifying Errors and Discrepancies
Employers identify any errors, omissions, or discrepancies in the Form I-9 documents. Common errors may include missing signatures, incorrect dates, incomplete sections, or improper documentation presented by employees.
Correcting Errors
Employers correct any identified errors or discrepancies in the Form I-9 documents. This may involve obtaining missing information or signatures from employees, updating incorrect information, or re-verifying work authorization documentation if necessary.
Ensuring Compliance
Employers ensure that their Form I-9 procedures comply with the requirements set forth by USCIS and the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This includes maintaining accurate records, retaining Form I-9 documents for the required period, and adhering to guidelines for verifying employment eligibility.
Implementing Best Practices
Employers may implement best practices for ongoing Form I-9 compliance, such as establishing standardized procedures for completing and retaining Form I-9 documents, providing training to employees responsible for Form I-9 administration, and conducting regular internal audits to monitor compliance.
Addressing Potential Risks
By conducting self-audits, employers proactively identify and address potential compliance risks related to Form I-9 documentation. This may include avoiding fines, penalties, or legal liabilities associated with non-compliance with immigration laws and regulations.
I-9 self-audits are essential for ensuring that employers maintain accurate and compliant Form I-9 documentation, mitigate potential risks, and uphold their responsibilities for verifying the employment eligibility of their workforce in accordance with U.S. immigration laws.