Back to the Basics: Timelines for Completing the Form I-9

by John Fay on March 9, 2011

[Editor’s note: today, we’re posting the first in a series of blogs intended for those readers who are new to the wonderful world of I-9s or for those who simply need a refresher. Each article will explore a fundamental concept or step in the Form I-9 employment eligibility verification process and examine frequently asked questions or recent developments. We begin with timelines for completing the Form I-9.]

When we think about I-9 compliance, one of the first concerns which often springs to mind is the notion of deadlines. As indicated in the regulations and the M-274 Handbook for Employers, the Form I-9 has to be completed any time you hire a person to perform work or services in the U.S. But when does the form have to be completed? Are there different deadlines for the employee and the employer? Is there any wiggle room for meeting these deadlines?

So much for “the basicsâ€