Construction Law

Form I-9 and E-Verify in Tampa, FL featured image

Form I-9 and E-Verify in Tampa, FL

When hiring non-U.S. citizens to work in your company, compliance is key. There is a great amount of talent across the globe that can bolster your business, but if the immigration process is not handled properly (by individuals and companies), the penalties are harsh. For example, if a company is found to willfully employ someone who is unauthorized to work in the United States, they will be subject to fines ranging from $375 to $16,000 per violation. One way to ensure that you are only hiring people who can legally work in the U.S. is through the use of the E-Verify system.

What is E-Verify?

E-Verify is an online system, provided by the Department of Homeland Security, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) Verification Division, and the Social Security Administration (SSA), that allows companies to determine if new hires are eligible to work in the U.S. Information taken from an employee’s I-9 is entered into the E-Verify system where it’s compared with records from the SSA and USCIS to determine employment eligibility.

How the I-9 and the E-Verify in Tampa, FL Systems Differ

While the Form I-9 and E-Verify in Tampa, FL are both tools in the employee verification process, they function differently and have different requirements. The primary difference is that employers are required to have an I-9 on file for all employees. E-Verify is generally a volunteer program; however, it is a requirement for some federal contractors. The I-9 doesn’t require employees to present a social security number or a photo ID. Both are requirements in the E-Verify system. Another key difference between I-9 and E-Verify in Tampa, FL is that I-9 forms must be used to re-verify an expired employment authorization. The E-Verify system can’t be used for that function.

Compliance

An important item to consider when using this system is E-Verify compliance in Tampa, FL. The E-Verify system is monitored to ensure compliance with applicable laws. Monitoring is also conducted to prevent discriminatory practices and to guide users through the process.

If you would like to learn more about the E-Verify system or immigration law, please contact us at 813.579.3278, or submit our contact request form.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.