What Is Form I-9? Employment Eligibility Verification Explained (2025 Guide)

What Is Form I-9? Employment Eligibility Verification Explained

Form I-9, also known as the Employment Eligibility Verification form, is a required U.S. document used to verify the identity and authorization to work of individuals hired for employment in the United States.

All employers must ensure that a properly completed I-9 Form is on file for each employee.

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What Is Form I-9?

Form I-9 is used by employers to confirm that an employee is legally allowed to work in the United States. Both the employee and employer must complete specific sections of the form within required timeframes.

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Who Needs to Complete Form I-9?

Form I-9 must be completed for:

• All new employees hired in the United States
• U.S. citizens and non-citizens alike
• Permanent, temporary, and part-time workers

Independent contractors and volunteers generally do not complete Form I-9.

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When Is Form I-9 Required?

• Employee Section: Completed on or before the first day of work
• Employer Section: Completed within three business days of hire

Failure to meet these deadlines may result in penalties for the employer.

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What Documents Are Required for Form I-9?

Employees must present original documents from the approved lists:

• List A: Documents that establish both identity and work authorization
• List B: Documents that establish identity only
• List C: Documents that establish employment authorization only

The employee may present either one List A document or a combination of one List B and one List C document.

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How to Fill Out Form I-9

1. Section 1 (Employee): Enter personal information and attest to work authorization.
2. Section 2 (Employer): Review documents and record document details.
3. Section 3 (If applicable): Reverification or rehire information.

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Sample Form I-9 (For Reference Only)

Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9)

Employee Name: ________________________________

Date of Birth: ________________________________

Address: _____________________________________

Work Authorization Status:
☐ U.S. Citizen
☐ Noncitizen National
☐ Lawful Permanent Resident
☐ Authorized Alien

Document Presented: ____________________________

Document Number: _____________________________

Employer Signature: ____________________________
Date: ____________________

This sample is for reference only and is not an official government form.

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Important Notes

• Form I-9 is not submitted to the government unless requested.
• Employers must retain I-9 forms for inspection.
• Expired documents cannot be accepted.

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Disclaimer: This article and sample form are provided for informational and reference purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.