Compliance Stuff

An I-9 audit can turn a single paperwork mistake into a $2,861 fine per form, and penalties can add up fast. The good news is that most audits are driven by a handful of predictable red flags . When you know what those signals look like and tighten a few parts of your process, you can reduce the odds of being caught off guard. For HR teams, the pressure is real: hiring is more distributed, verification is harder to standardize, and enforcement expectations have not gotten simpler. Let’s dive into the five most common audit triggers, what happens once ICE initiates an inspection, and the practical process moves that make audits less disruptive. In this post, we'll cover: What is an I-9 Audit? 5 Most Common Triggers for an I-9 Audit What Happens During an I-9 Audit How to Prepare for an I-9 Audit A Quick Self-Assessment for HR Teams How to Build a Stronger Compliance Foundation Frequently Asked Questions What is an I-9 Audit? In November 1986, the Immigration Reform and Control Act ...

  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...