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Preparing for I-9 Audits: Tips to Stay Compliant and Avoid Costly Fines

January 26, 2025

Question:

I recently read that I-9 audits have increased over the last couple of years and that this trend is going to continue with the new administration. Is this true? If yes, what can I do to be prepared?

Answer:

Yes, audits have increased, and with the new administration, this is expected to continue. Being prepared is key, especially since over 75% of paper forms have at least one error or are missing information and are incomplete. Fines for I-9 paperwork errors can range from a couple hundred to a couple thousand dollars per form.

Steps to Help Ensure You Are Prepared:
  1. Make sure you are using the most current Form I-9.
  2. Ensure that you have the following information available for each employee and check to see if it is correct: Employee Information, Citizenship or Immigration Status, Employee’s Attestation, Identity and Employment Eligibility Provided Documents (List A), Identity (List B), Employment Authorization (List C), Employer’s Certification Information, and Reverification Requirements.
  3. Stay organized – keep all Forms I-9 together.
  4. Conduct internal I-9 audits – this will help you identify errors that may have been made on past forms, as well as allow you to property discard Forms I-9 once the retention period has passed.
  5. Consider E-Verify – it can help identify if someone is properly authorized and demonstrates an effort of compliance.
  6. Consider an electronic system to help eliminate errors and organize your process.
  7. Know your rights.

Taking proactive steps now can save your organization from costly fines and compliance headaches down the road. If you have further questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out.

 

Article courtesy of Ahola.

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