What Triggers an I-9 Audit?
The word “audit” can strike fear in the hearts of HR professionals across the country. With increasing fines, an I-9 audit can turn a small mistake into a big cost. Maintaining compliance and avoiding costly audits is one of the more complex aspects of working in HR. But don’t worry – we’re here to help you face those fears and understand everything you need to know about what can trigger an I-9 audit and what you can do to avoid it . What is an I-9 Audit? In November 1986, the Immigration Reform and Control Act was enacted, requiring employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of their employees using Form I-9. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) perform I-9 audits to ensure businesses comply with the law and maintain accurate records . If a company is audited and found non-compliant, it may face fines of up to $2,789 per form, among other penalties. As of June 28, 2024, these fines have increase...