I-9 Compliance Audits & Employer Training
Employment Eligibility Verification for U.S. Employers
At Powers Immigration Law, we help businesses meet their legal obligations under federal immigration law through I-9 compliance audits, training, and ongoing support. As an employer, maintaining proper I-9 documentation is critical to protecting your company from fines, penalties, and government investigations.
What Is I-9 Compliance?
Under the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986, all U.S. employers are required to verify the identity and work authorization of every employee hired after November 6, 1986. This is done using Form I-9, which must be completed on or before the employee's first day of work.
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Employers must strike a careful balance—ensuring compliance without engaging in discriminatory hiring practices. It is unlawful to make hiring decisions based on foreign appearance, accents, or national origin. However, failing to properly complete and retain I-9 forms can lead to serious penalties and ICE audits.
Our I-9 Compliance Services
At Powers Immigration Law, we provide comprehensive I-9 support to ensure your business remains compliant and audit-ready. Our services include:
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Internal I-9 audits to identify and correct errors
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Training for HR teams and hiring managers on proper I-9 procedures
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E-Verify guidance and best practices
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Corrective action planning for existing I-9 issues
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Policies and procedures development for ongoing compliance
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Support during government audits or investigations
Why I-9 Compliance Matters
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Penalties for I-9 violations can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars per violation
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ICE can initiate worksite enforcement audits without notice
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Inconsistent I-9 practices increase the risk of discrimination claims
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Proper compliance protects your business from liability and reputational harm
How Long Must Employers Retain Form I-9?
Employers must retain each I-9 form for three years after the date of hire or one year after the date of termination, whichever is later. The forms must be readily available for inspection by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE), or the Department of Labor (DOL).
Schedule an I-9 Compliance Audit Today
Whether you're a small business or a large corporation, maintaining I-9 compliance is essential. Let Powers Immigration Law help you protect your business with legal guidance, thorough audits, and practical training.
