IMPORTANT! New Form I-9 Released

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently issued an updated Form I-9 for employers to begin using as of January 31, 2020. The new version is labeled 10/21/2019, and expires on 10/31/2022. The prior version, labeled 07/17/17 N, can still be used through April 30, 2020 as employers transition to the new form. However, beginning May 1, 2020, employers may only use the new version.

All U.S. Employers must use Form I-9 to verify the identity and employment authorization of each individual they hire, including citizens and noncitizens. The form itself essentially remains unchanged. However, there were clarifications made to the Form I-9 Instructions, which can be reviewed here. Most notably, the instructions now expressly state that employers may use a designated representative to complete the Form I-9 on their behalf, but that employers are liable for any violations committed by their designated representative.

Additionally, the revised privacy policy statement indicates that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may share the information provided on the form for law enforcement purposes or in the interest of national security. While this may not be a change in existing practice, it is expressly notifying employers and workers of the policy.

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