On January 22, 2017, it became mandatory for employers to use the revised version of Form I-9, the Employment Eligibility Verification Form. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has published the updated M-274, Handbook for Employers: Guidance for Completing Form I-9, which offers detailed guidance for employers completing Form I-9.
This updated Handbook for Employers additionally:
- Captures policy and regulatory changes since 2013
- Is written in plain language, so that it is easier to understand
- Includes a streamlined questions and answers section
- Features updated tables, new figures, and more current sample documents
- Explains guidance regarding automatic extensions for certain Employment Authorization Documents
I-9s are required for all newly hired and re-hired employees. Employers who violate the law are subject to civil fines, criminal penalties, and debarment from government contracts. Failing to comply with verification requirements carries penalties of up to $2,156 per form.
Changes and updates to Form I-9 include:
- The ability to complete the I-9 electronically
- Instructions on providing email addresses (new to the form)
- Requirements when using a designee to complete the form
- Examples of how to use the “Additional Information” section
- Instructions on updating forms when receipts were used as an original document
- An extensive new section on Automatic Extensions of Employment (EAD)
- Use of Native American Tribal documents
- Employer responsibilities when providing practical training to STEM OPT students
- Rules on reverification
- How to correct errors
In addition to the Handbook for Employers, the Table of Changes for Revised M-274 is a quick reference table that highlights all changes to the new form and verification process.