Understanding I-9 Compliance: Avoiding Costly Mistakes for Employers and Employees
Whether you run a small business or manage a large corporation, compliance with Form I-9 is a critical part of your human resources responsibilities. Many employers assume they have this federal process fully under control, but immigration law is complex, and even minor oversights can result in significant penalties. To avoid the common mistakes businesses make with I-9 filings, it’s important to understand the form, its requirements, and the risks of noncompliance.
What Is Form I-9?
Form I-9, also known as the Employment Eligibility Verification form, is a mandatory document for all employees hired in the United States. Required under the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the I-9 verifies that every employee is legally authorized to work in the U.S. The form was created and is regulated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
While independent contractors and volunteers are not required to complete an I-9, knowingly hiring a worker who is not authorized for employment can lead to severe federal penalties. Even seemingly minor mistakes can cost businesses hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars per violation.
Employers should approach the I-9 process with diligence and ensure their procedures are carried out in good faith.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship
Common I-9 Documentation Mistakes
Mistakes can occur on both the employer and employee sides of the process. Below are some of the most frequent errors:
Employee Mistakes
- Failing to enter the approved identification documents on the I-9 form.
- Not signing the employer certification.
- Missing key information such as document numbers, expiration dates, issuing authority, or document titles.
- Failing to record the employee’s start date.
- Omitting the employer’s business name, address, or title.
- Misunderstanding Social Security number requirements (mandatory for E-Verify users, optional otherwise).
- Submitting Section 2 after the required three business days following the employee’s start date.
- Improperly completing Section 3 after work authorization expiration without requesting updated evidence.
Each of these errors can result in fines during an I-9 audit. To reduce risks, many businesses designate a specific HR staff member to oversee I-9 compliance.
Employee Mistakes
- Providing incorrect information, such as name, birth date, or address.
- Failing to enter the required USCIS number when selecting “Lawful Permanent Resident.”
- Incorrectly completing the Form I-94 section.
- Neglecting to sign the attestation section.
- Leaving the first date of employment blank.
- Omitting lawful status information.
- Failing to have an interpreter or preparer sign the form when assistance is provided.
Other Frequent Errors by Employers and Employees
- Delayed completion of the form.
- Missing signatures or dates.
- Failing to indicate lawful residency status.
- Leaving one side of the form incomplete.
- Missing or misplaced pages.
- Using White-Out (not permitted—errors must be struck through, initialed, and corrected properly).
- Using an outdated version of the I-9 form.
- Selectively photocopying supporting documents rather than applying a consistent policy to all employees.
Real-World Example: The Panda Express Case
In 2017, Panda Express—a major restaurant franchise—was audited by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Although the company required all employees to complete I-9 forms, it mistakenly demanded that only lawful permanent residents renew their I-9 documentation, while U.S. citizens were not subjected to the same requirement. ICE deemed this discriminatory and fined Panda Express $400,000.
While a large corporation may absorb such a penalty, a small or mid-sized business could face devastating consequences. Ensuring your company can withstand an I-9 audit is crucial to protecting your investment and reputation.
How ICE Is Enforcing I-9 Compliance
The Panda Express case is not unique. ICE has dramatically increased both the number of audits it conducts and the penalties associated with I-9 violations. Fines now range from $216 to $2,156 per error—and that applies to each mistake, not just per form. A single incorrectly completed I-9 can rack up thousands of dollars in penalties.
For larger companies with hundreds of employees, consistent errors can lead to fines in the tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Even small businesses face significant financial risks if they neglect compliance.
It’s also important to note that ICE no longer distinguishes between technical and substantive violations. As demonstrated in the Buffalo Transportation case, appeals based on this argument are no longer valid.
Additionally, ICE introduced a mandatory electronic I-9 system in late 2017. Employers must ensure they are using the correct version of the form to remain compliant.
Protect Your Business with Professional Guidance
The risks associated with I-9 compliance are too high to ignore. Employers should seek experienced legal guidance to ensure their hiring practices are fully aligned with federal regulations. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys can provide proactive strategies, compliance audits, and legal representation to safeguard your business against costly penalties.
By partnering with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link, you can reduce risks, streamline your HR processes, and protect your company’s future.
Essential I-9 Compliance Tips for Employers
When it comes to completing Form I-9, even small mistakes can lead to serious compliance issues during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) audit. To protect your business, it’s important to understand the most common errors and follow strict procedures for accuracy.
Common I-9 Errors to Avoid
Section 1 of the I-9 must be completed after the employee accepts the job offer but no later than their first day of work. Section 2 must be finalized within the first three business days of employment, and employers must keep copies of the original identification documents provided by the employee.
Maintaining well-organized records is essential. Store all I-9 forms and supporting documents together in an easily accessible location in case of an ICE inspection. Additionally, conducting regular internal audits helps identify and correct mistakes before they become costly problems.
Employers are also required to retain I-9 forms for at least three years after the employee’s hire date or one year after the employee’s termination date—whichever is later.
USCIS Best Practices for I-9 Compliance
According to USCIS guidelines, employers should make sure that:
- All entries are clear, accurate, and legible
- Payroll records match the Section 2 employee start date
- No marks, tears, or damage affect the form’s readability
- Copies of all forms and supporting documents are easily readable
- Any abbreviations or acronyms used are properly explained
- All required information is fully completed
- The most current version of the I-9 form is being used
- The English version of the I-9 is used (with the exception of Puerto Rico)
- No employee is subject to discrimination during the I-9 process
Correcting I-9 Mistakes
If errors are discovered during an internal audit, follow USCIS-approved correction methods:
- Cross out the incorrect information with a single line.
- Enter the correct information clearly.
- Initial and date the correction.
For forms containing multiple errors or an incomplete section, complete a new I-9 and attach it to the original. Never discard the original form. Always include a note explaining the correction to ensure transparency. Attempting to hide or alter errors without proper notation can create suspicion during an audit.
How Green Card Link Can Help Employers
Although USCIS provides step-by-step instructions for I-9 completion, compliance is far from simple. For business owners, navigating these regulations without professional guidance can be overwhelming.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys assist employers with every aspect of I-9 compliance. From answering complex questions to helping prepare proper documentation, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link ensure your business avoids costly I-9 mistakes and potential penalties. With their guidance, you can confidently protect your company from compliance risks while focusing on growth.