How To Comply With I-9 Requirements When Hiring Remotely

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Amid the effects of COVID-19, companies have been forced to reevaluate their workforce to find an operational solution that limits the spread of the virus but allows production to continue. The solution? Remote working. Remote working brings about great benefits, but also many challenges. One challenge is the completion of the I-9 process.

How Have the I-9 Completion Requirements Changed Since COVID-19?

The I-9 is a government form completed by workers to confirm their identity and verify their legal eligibility to work in the United States. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Section 2 of the form had to be completed in the presence of the employer. However, in the wake of COVID-19, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) made a temporary announcement stating that employers will no longer physically have to review the information and supporting documentation in Section 2 of the form. Instead, they can inspect Section 2 items via video, fax, or email and retain copies of the documentation.

This temporary guidance was set to expire in November 2020, before being pushed back until December 31, 2020. However, due to ongoing precautions related to COVID-19, the U.S. DHS has extended the Form I-9 flexibility policy numerous times. Most recently the expiry date has been set to April 30, 2022.

Employers can designate an authorized representative to act on their behalf to complete Section 2. This can be a neighbor, family member, or business acquaintance. Submitting I-9 forms remotely may cause an added layer of confusion when hiring workers remotely, and concerns may arise around remaining compliant. Therefore, it might be a good idea to consider using an expert company to manage your remote workforce who has access to specialized I-9 onboarding software to ensure you comply with the necessary requirements when hiring remotely.

Why Should you Partner With a Company That Uses I-9 Technology?

Using an expert workforce management company that has onboarding technology with specialized I-9 features can greatly assist you when managing the process of hiring remote workers. Here are some of the main benefits of I-9 compatible technology:

Enables you to remain 100% compliant

I-9 compatible technology solves the challenge of workers being remote across the globe by adhering to federal regulations while still having the ability to be fully compliant.

Saves time and money

Reduce time and money spent on repetitive administrative tasks. Using a fully automated solution with I-9 features to onboard a remote worker saves time and eliminates the chance of human error.

The ability to electronically countersign

New remote workers can complete all of their onboarding paperwork electronically when using onboarding technology like our tech, Precision, which enables new workers to select a third party to electronically countersign Section 2 of their I-9.

Onboard workers quickly, anywhere at anytime

When hiring remotely, onboarding technology with I-9 features enables workers to electronically complete their worker’s documents anytime, anywhere.

Need Help Addressing The Logistic Issues of Remote Working?

If the new I-9 hiring requirements are giving you a headache, feel free to contact us to understand how our technology, Precision, can help you address the logistic issues of remote hiring and simplify the verification process.

Disclaimer: All information written here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional and/or legal services.