How to Fill Out an I-9 Form

Purpose
Completing the Form I-9 is a mandatory step for all new hires in the United States to verify their identity and authorization to work. This article provides employees with step-by-step guidance on how to accurately complete the I-9 form.

Overview
The Form I-9, officially known as the Employment Eligibility Verification form, is required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Employers must ensure that each new employee, both citizen, and noncitizen, completes this form.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Section 1: Employee Information and Attestation
Section 1 must be completed by the employee no later than the first day of employment.

1. Start on the Correct Form: Make sure you are using the latest Form I-9 provided by USCIS. You can download it here.
2. Enter Personal Information:
3. Full legal name, including last name, first name, and middle initial.
   Other last names used (if applicable), such as maiden names.
   Address, including street number and name, apartment or unit number, city or town, state, and ZIP Code.
   Date of birth (format: mm/dd/yyyy).
   U.S. Social Security Number.
   Select Citizenship/Immigration Status:
4. Check the appropriate box (1. A Citizen of the United States, 2. A noncitizen national of the United States, 3. A lawful permanent resident, or 4. An alien authorized to work until a specific date).
   For Noncitizens Only:
5. If you're a lawful permanent resident, provide your Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number or Form I-94 Admission Number.
   If you are an alien authorized to work, provide the appropriate Alien Registration Number/USCIS Number or Form I-94 Admission Number, and the expiration date of your employment authorization (if applicable).
   Preparer and/or Translator Certification (if applicable):
6. If you have used a preparer or translator to fill out the form, the preparer or translator must certify by checking the appropriate box and signing and dating the form.
   Signature and Date:
7. Sign and date the form. Remember, Section 1 must be completed on or before your first day of work for pay.

Section 2: Employer Review and Verification
Section 2 is completed by your employer and must be done within three business days of your first day of employment.

1. Physical Examination of Documents:
2. Present your employer with original documentation that proves your identity and work authorization. You can choose from a list on the last page of the I-9 Form (List A or a combination of List B and List C documents).
   Employer Verification:
3. The employer will review the documents to determine if they reasonably appear to be genuine and relate to you.
   The employer will then fill out Section 2 with information from the documents presented.

Section 3: Reverification and Rehires (if applicable)
Section 3, if applicable, is completed by employers for employees who are rehired or whose work authorization requires reverification.

Important Tips

• Use the newest version of the Form I-9 available from USCIS.
• Print clearly, if completing by hand.
• Ensure all details are correct and accurate to avoid processing delays or legal issues.
• Ensure to complete the form within the prescribed timeline (Section 1 by the first day of work, Section 2 within three business days of the start date).

Additional Resources
Visit the official USCIS Form I-9 page for more information.
Contact the HR department or your supervisor for personalized assistance.
Conclusion
Filling out the Form I-9 is a straightforward process, but accuracy and timeliness are crucial. If there are any doubts or uncertainties, do not hesitate to reach out to your employer for clarification or assistance. Remember that it is your responsibility to provide accurate information and it is your employer's responsibility to verify this information.