The purpose of an I-9 audit is to ensure that employers are complying with laws related to verifying the identity and employment eligibility of their employees.
I-9 audits are conducted by government agents, typically from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
During an I-9 audit, a government agent will review the I-9 forms for a sample of employees at a company and verify that the information on the forms is accurate and that the required documentation has been provided. The agent will also check to see that the forms have been completed correctly and that the employer has followed all relevant laws and regulations in verifying the employment eligibility of their employees.
If an employer is found to be noncompliant with I-9 regulations, they may be subject to fines and other penalties.
Yes, an employer can appeal the results of an I-9 audit if they believe the findings are incorrect or unfair.
To prepare for an I-9 audit, employers should make sure that they have completed and retained I-9 forms for all employees and that the forms are accurate and complete. They should also ensure that they have followed all relevant laws and regulations in verifying the employment eligibility of their employees.