Is there a new I-9 form for 2019?

As a finance and compliance professional, I understand the importance of staying up to date on the latest regulations and forms. One common question employers ask is whether there is a new I-9 form for 2019. The I-9 form, also known as the Employment Eligibility Verification form, is a critical document that employers must complete for each newly hired employee to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States.

To answer the question directly, no, there is no new I-9 form specifically for 2019. However, it is important to note that the most recent version of the form was released on July 17, 2017, and as far as I know, it will remain the current version until the September 2021 deadline. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for maintaining and updating the I-9 form as necessary, and any updates or revisions will be announced by the USCIS on their official website.

Understanding the Purpose of the I-9 Form

Before delving into the details, it is important to understand the purpose of the I-9 form and its importance in the hiring process. The primary purpose of the I-9 form is to establish an employee’s identity and eligibility to work in the United States. By completing this form, employers fulfill their legal obligation to verify the employment eligibility and identity of each employee.

The I-9 form requires employees to present certain documents that establish their identity and employment eligibility, such as a U.S. passport, permanent resident card, or a combination of other acceptable documents as outlined in the form’s instructions. The employer then reviews and verifies the documents presented to ensure their authenticity and compliance with USCIS requirements.

Completing the I-9 Form: Key Considerations

When completing the I-9 form, employers must carefully follow the instructions provided by the USCIS to ensure compliance with the law. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
1. Timing: The I-9 form must be completed within three business days of the employee’s first day of employment. It is critical to begin the verification process promptly to avoid delays and potential compliance issues.

2. Accuracy: Employers must ensure that all required fields on the I-9 form are completed accurately. Any errors or omissions can result in penalties or legal consequences. It is a good idea to double-check the information provided by the employee and review the completed form for any errors.

Retention and Storage of I-9 Forms

Once the I-9 form is completed and verified, employers must retain the form for a specified period of time. It is important to maintain proper recordkeeping practices to comply with the law. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Retention Period: Employers are required to keep the I-9 form for as long as the employee works for the company. After the employee is terminated, the form must be retained for either three years from the date of hire or one year after the employee is terminated, whichever is later.
2. Storage: I-9 forms may be stored in paper or electronic format, provided the storage system meets the requirements outlined by the USCIS. Employers must ensure the security and confidentiality of stored forms to protect sensitive employee information from unauthorized access or disclosure.

Conclusion

While there is no new I-9 form specifically for 2019, it is important for employers to understand the purpose of the form and key considerations when completing it. By following the instructions provided by USCIS, employers can verify the identity and eligibility of their employees to work in the United States while remaining in compliance with the law. In addition, proper recordkeeping practices ensure that I-9 forms are retained and stored for the required period of time. Staying abreast of the latest updates and guidance from the USCIS is critical to ensuring ongoing compliance with I-9 form requirements.

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this article is based on my knowledge as of September 2021. It is always advisable to consult the official USCIS website or seek legal advice for the most current and accurate information regarding I-9 form requirements.

FAQs

Is there a new I-9 form for 2019?

No, there is no new I-9 form specifically for the year 2019. The latest version of the I-9 form, as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, is the one released on October 21, 2019. However, please note that my information might not be up to date, so it’s always best to consult official sources such as the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the most current information.

What is the purpose of the I-9 form?

The purpose of the I-9 form is to verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for employment in the United States. Employers are required to complete and retain a Form I-9 for each employee, including U.S. citizens and noncitizens.

Where can I obtain a copy of the I-9 form?

You can obtain a copy of the I-9 form from the official website of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form is available for download as a PDF file and can be accessed free of charge.

Are there any penalties for not completing the I-9 form?

Yes, there can be penalties for employers who fail to comply with the I-9 requirements. The penalties vary depending on the severity of the violation, and they can range from monetary fines to criminal charges in cases of deliberate fraud or knowingly employing unauthorized workers. It’s important for employers to take the I-9 process seriously and ensure they are in compliance with the law.

What documents are acceptable for completing the I-9 form?

The I-9 form provides a list of acceptable documents that individuals can present to establish their identity and employment authorization. The list includes documents such as a U.S. passport, permanent resident card, driver’s license, Social Security card, and many others. The form includes specific instructions on which combinations of documents are acceptable, and the employee must provide the required documents within a certain timeframe after starting employment.