📝 Unlocking the Secrets of I-9 Verification with Go Mamil Mobile Notary Services 🚀
In the United States, employers must ensure that their employees are eligible to work in the country. One of the primary ways this is done is through the I-9 verification process. This guide will provide a detailed overview of what I-9 verification is, why it's important, how it works, and the crucial role a notary can play in this process, including through remote online notarization platforms. With Go Mamil Mobile Notary Services, you can make this process seamless and stress-free!
What is I-9 Verification?
I-9 verification is a process mandated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that requires employers to verify the identity and employment authorization of each person they hire. This process involves completing the Form I-9, officially known as the Employment Eligibility Verification form.
Why is I-9 Verification Important?
The I-9 verification process is crucial for several reasons:
Legal Compliance: It ensures that employers comply with federal immigration laws, avoiding hefty fines and legal penalties.
Preventing Illegal Employment: It helps prevent the employment of unauthorized workers in the U.S., supporting lawful hiring practices.
Protecting Employee Rights: It protects the rights of employees by ensuring they are legally authorized to work in the U.S.
The I-9 Form: A Closer Look
The Form I-9 is divided into three main sections:
Section 1: Employee Information and Attestation
Completed by the Employee: This section must be filled out by the employee no later than their first day of employment.
Information Required: The employee provides their name, address, date of birth, and other personal details. They must also attest to their citizenship or immigration status.
Section 2: Employer Review and Verification
Completed by the Employer: The employer must complete this section within three business days of the employee’s first day of work.
Document Verification: The employer examines documents presented by the employee to verify their identity and employment authorization. Acceptable documents are listed in three categories (List A, List B, and List C):
List A: Documents that establish both identity and employment authorization (e.g., U.S. passport, Permanent Resident Card).
List B: Documents that establish identity only (e.g., driver's license, ID card).
List C: Documents that establish employment authorization only (e.g., Social Security card, birth certificate).
Section 3: Reverification and Rehires
Used for Reverification: This section is used if the employee’s work authorization has expired or if they are rehired within three years of the original hire date.
Updated Information: The employer updates the form with new documents provided by the employee to confirm continued employment eligibility.
The Role of a Notary in I-9 Verification
Notaries can play a significant role in the I-9 verification process, especially for remote employees or employers who outsource this task. Here’s how notaries contribute:
Identity Verification: Notaries are trained to verify the identity of individuals through the examination of identification documents, ensuring they are genuine and belong to the person presenting them.
Remote Verification: For remote employees, a mobile notary can meet the employee at a convenient location to complete the I-9 verification process, providing flexibility and convenience.
Document Authentication: Notaries can help authenticate the documents presented, reducing the risk of accepting fraudulent documents.
Compliance Assurance: Notaries are knowledgeable about the requirements of the I-9 form and can help ensure that the form is completed correctly and on time.
Completing the I-9 Form: Step-by-Step Guide
In-Person Notarization
Schedule an Appointment: Arrange a meeting with a notary to perform the I-9 verification in person.
Employee Completes Section 1: On or before their first day, the employee fills out Section 1, providing personal information and attesting to their work authorization status.
Meet with the Notary: The employee brings their identification and employment authorization documents to the notary.
Document Verification: The notary physically examines the documents to verify their authenticity and relation to the employee.
Notary Completes Section 2: The notary records the document information in Section 2, including document title, issuing authority, document number, and expiration date (if applicable). The notary may add their seal and signature if required.
Submit the Form: The completed I-9 form is then provided to the employer for their records.
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
Choose a RON Platform: Select a remote online notarization platform that is secure and compliant with state laws.
Employee Completes Section 1: On or before their first day, the employee fills out Section 1, providing personal information and attesting to their work authorization status.
Upload Documents: The employee uploads their identification and employment authorization documents to the RON platform.
Schedule a Virtual Meeting: Arrange a virtual meeting with a notary who is available to perform the I-9 verification remotely.
Identity Verification: The RON platform uses knowledge-based authentication (KBA) and biometric verification to confirm the employee’s identity.
Document Verification: During the virtual meeting, the notary reviews the uploaded documents to verify their authenticity and relation to the employee.
Notary Completes Section 2: The notary records the document information in Section 2, including document title, issuing authority, document number, and expiration date (if applicable). The notary's electronic signature and seal are applied, if necessary.
Recording and Compliance: The RON session is recorded, providing an added layer of security and compliance.
Submit the Form: The completed I-9 form is then electronically provided to the employer for their records.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incomplete Forms: Ensure all required fields are filled out correctly.
Missed Deadlines: Complete Section 1 by the first day of employment and Section 2 within three business days.
Improper Document Verification: Only accept documents that are on the Lists of Acceptable Documents and do not require more documentation than necessary.
Conclusion
I-9 verification is a critical process that ensures employers are hiring individuals authorized to work in the U.S. By understanding and properly executing the I-9 verification process, employers can remain compliant with federal laws and contribute to a fair and lawful employment environment. The involvement of notaries, including through remote online notarization platforms like those provided by Go Mamil Mobile Notary Services, can further streamline this process, offering reliable and professional assistance in verifying employee documents.
Contact Go Mamil Mobile Notary Services today to schedule your I-9 verification! 📞
For more information and to download the Form I-9, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
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