Two Related Changes for I-9 and E-Verify

Our strategic business partner, Bill Truesdell, has given us all a heads-up about a postponement of today's revised I-9 implementation and about a new start date for E-verify. Here's his email…

Dear Clients,

In an eleventh-hour move, the U.S. Customs and Immigration Service has extended the implementation date for the new I-9 Form changes.

Originally scheduled to go into effect today (February 2, 2009), changes to the form included some document additions and cancellations. Most importantly, it deleted the requirement for Social Security Numbers to be entered on the form IF the employer does NOT participate in the E-Verify system. Social Security Numbers were to still be required from all new employees if the employer is an E-Verify participant.

This extension is for 60-days and more public comments are being requested. The new implementation date is April 3, 2009.

In related news, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a new start date when federal contractors will be required to participate in the E-Verify program to screen all new workers. That date is May 21, 2009. Mark your calendar if you are not now registered and participating in the program. You will need to go on line at the DHS web site and register prior to that date to get your company login assignments so you can start on May 21 as required.

For Frequently Asked Questions about the program go to the USCIS web site.

I'll be happy to answer your questions, or find someone who can.

All the best,

Bill Truesdell, SPHR

You can contact Bill via email at aap@merithr.com. If you'd like to speak with someone at Merit Resource Group, you can call us at 925-867-4400 or 408-501-8863 or you can contact us here on the website.