How to clean up I-9 records

Even though past violations cannot be retroactively corrected, based on the ongoing requirement to be in compliance, employers should take the necessary steps to bring their practices into compliance with regulations. If I-9’s are found to be inadequately completed, and the employee is still currently employed, then there should be no error that cannot be corrected. True, the document was incorrect to begin with and also true that it would now not be technically correct within the required 3 days of hire, but making the corrections now should put the organization in much better favor with the regulatory agency if ever audited.

Quick Tip: File your I-9s in 2 binders. The first binder for current employees, filed alphabetically. The second binder for terminated employees filed by year, chronologically by termination date. This way, you can more easily dispose of documents 1 year after termination. Also, if your I-9 practices are audited, you will have all current documents in one place.

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