As of January 22, 2017, employers will be required to use the new version of the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9), dated November 14, 2016.1 The new Form I-9 includes numerous changes which should decrease technical errors and will enable applicants to complete the Form I-9 on a computer. The new Form I-9 now includes:
- Prompts with additional instructions on the screen to help applicants and employers enter information correctly;
- Drop-down lists and calendars;
- Buttons that allow users to access the instructions electronically, print the form and clear the form to start over;
- A dedicated section on page one for entering multiple preparers and translators;
- A dedicated section on page two for entering additional information that employers are currently required to notate in the margins of the form;
- A supplemental certification page for the preparer and/or translator;
- A separate instruction page, no longer attached to the Form I-9, with detailed instructions for completing each field; and
- A quick-response matrix barcode (QR code), which is generated once the form is printed and can be used to streamline audit processes.
The Bottom Line. Although the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will continue to accept the old Form I-9 before January 22, 2017, employers should begin using the new Form I-9 as soon as possible to ensure compliance in January. If you have any questions or would like our assistance with Form I-9 compliance, please call or email Practice Co-Chair Jed Marcus or Jenny Caruso.
1A Form I-9 verifies the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment in the United States. United States employers are required to complete a Form I-9 for every United States employee hired. The new Form I-9 may be found here.