Understanding the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA)
- On 30 November 2015
- Posted by Chantal Mariotti
IRCA requires that all employers, regardless of size, verify their new hires eligibility to work in the U.S. The Immigration Reform and Control Act requires employers to provide proof that all of their new employees have the right to work in the United States. Whether they are citizens, on a working VISA, etc., employees must be authorized to work in the United States.
Failure to have a properly completed I-9 form for each of your employees can result in heavy fines; administrative errors on the form can result in fines of up to $1000.00 PER administrative error! Take some time to make sure that the I-9 forms are properly completed in a timely manner. Doing so can save you a lot of stress and unnecessary expenses and fines. Obtain all of the necessary information from your new hires and make sure that all the information is current and accurate.
I-9 form must be updated by the employer and “re-verified” when certain documents expire. Ensure that all of your employee’s information is up-to-date and that they are eligible to work. Certain documents must be re-verified, such as temporary work authorization cards with expiration dates.
Know how to complete the form properly. (Use only blue or black ink, as this is a LEGAL form; do not use highlighter or white out on the form; conduct a self-audit annually to ensure compliance). Simple errors or unanswered questions on the form can create problems during the documentation process. Make sure you read all of the instructions on the form prior to completing it.
We can help by conducting an audit of your I-9’s and train your designated representative as to how to property administer the I-9 process. Our trained HR Consultants can help simplify the process for you and your staff so you remain confident in being compliant with the law. Your representatives will receive a comprehensive training session and learn all the correct procedures when it comes to properly completing and filing the I-9 forms.