Employers must use updated Form I-9, effective January 22

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The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has published a revised version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification.  After January 22, 2017 only the version dated 11/14/2016 N will be acceptable.  Until then, Employers may continue to use the earlier version dated 03/08/2013 N or use the new version.

The changes are designed to reduce errors and enhance form completion using a computer and do not substantially change any information which is being collected.

Enhancements include:

  • drop-down lists and calendars for filling in dates,
  • on-screen instructions for each field,
  • easy access to the full instructions,
  • the ability to enter multiple preparers and translators,
  • a dedicated area for including additional information rather than having to add it in the margins and
  • an option to clear the form and start over.

The instructions have been separated from the form and are more extensive.  The USCIS has also indicated that a new M-274 Handbook for Employers will be published in January 2017.  For more information, visit I9 Central.

EANJ will be running an I-9 Workshop on January 11, 2017.