The I-9 Form

All employers must fill out an I-9 form for all employees hired since November 6, 1986, regardless of their immigration status.  U.S. citizens are required to complete this form.  The purpose of the form is verify the identity and employment authorization of all U.S.-based workers.  

The form consists of two portions.  In the first portion, the employee attests that he or she is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or otherwise authorized to work temporarily.  This section must be completed at the time of hire.  In the second portion, employers are required to record that they have examined original documents from a specified list verifying the employee's identity and eligibility to work.   This section must be completed by the employer within three days of the employee's start date.  

The I-9 forms are kept by the employer for at least three years from the date of hire, or one year after the employee's last day of work, whichever is later.