How long are employers required to keep I-9 forms on file?

Employers are required to keep I-9 forms on file for a specific duration to comply with federal regulations. The correct answer states that I-9 forms must be retained for either three years after the date of hire or one year after the employee’s termination, whichever is later. This requirement ensures that employers have access to documentation of an employee's work eligibility for a sufficient period, allowing for compliance checks in the event of an audit by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or other enforcement agencies.

The reason this duration is implemented is to provide adequate time for verification and to protect against any potential legal issues that may arise pertaining to employment eligibility. By retaining the records under these guidelines, employers can demonstrate that they have fulfilled their obligations to verify the identity and employment authorization of their workforce.

The incorrect options do not align with the established regulatory framework: retaining I-9 forms for one year after termination or two years after the date of hire falls short of the required timeframes, leading to potential non-compliance. Keeping records indefinitely may contradict federal regulations, which stipulate specific retention periods to avoid unnecessary storage of outdated documents.