If you run a business, it is your duty to ensure your employees are legally authorized to work in the U.S. Failing to comply with the Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9 can lead to serious fines and penalties. Contact a Palm Bay I-9 compliance lawyer if you are uncertain whether your business is fully compliant with the requirements or if you have been notified of an audit.
At Jag Law, PLLC, we are dedicated to helping business owners like you remain or become compliant with Form I-9 requirements. Our seasoned immigration lawyer could provide guidance on how to avoid common mistakes, get your business’s hiring and paperwork practices up to speed, and make sure you are prepared for an audit.
All employers in the U.S. must complete a Form I-9 for every employee they hire. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services provide and regulate the form to verify each employee’s identity and legal authorization to work in the U.S. A few additional requirements are placed on employers in order to remain compliant, including:
Following these requirements closely is important as even the smallest error or missing information can result in legal trouble for your business.
Making mistakes when handling I-9 forms in Palm Bay is surprisingly easy, so working with a lawyer to monitor compliance is a great idea. Some common mistakes employers make include:
An attorney familiar with the requirements and common mistakes could quickly spot areas where your business could improve compliance.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is the government agency charged with enforcing compliance with I-9 forms. If your business is going to be audited, you will receive a Notice of Inspection (NOI). You will be required to provide I-9 forms for all of your Palm Bay employees.
An experienced lawyer could check forms for errors, identify incomplete forms or improper corrections, advise on corrections needed, represent your business, make sure all deadlines are met, and work to mitigate fines if any violations are found.
Of course, it is wise to make sure your business is in compliance before an audit to protect your business and avoid fines for violations. With audits from ICE on the rise, it is crucial to be prepared.
Protect your business from potential fines and penalties by ensuring you comply with the federal government’s employment eligibility verification requirements.
Whether you are looking for a review of your current practices or need help with an impending audit, a Palm Bay I-9 compliance lawyer from Jag Law, PLLC could be of assistance. Make an appointment today to discuss your legal situation.