When must an employer complete Form I-9 for a new hire? Answer in under 100 words. Cite only eCFR (www.ecfr.gov) sources.

Details / How it works

Section 1 — Employee Information and Verification: The employee must complete and sign Section 1 at the time of hire, using a handwritten or electronic signature in accordance with 8 CFR 274a.2(h). If the employee needs assistance, a preparer or translator may help and must complete the Preparer/Translator Certification.

Section 2 — Employer Review and Verification: The employer must physically examine the employee's documents and complete Section 2 within three business days of the hire, signing the attestation with a handwritten or electronic signature per 8 CFR 274a.2(i).

Hires under three business days: The employer must comply at the time of hire and may not accept a receipt in lieu of the required document.

Numbers & thresholds

Exceptions & edge cases

• Minors under 18 unable to produce identity documents: A parent or legal guardian may complete Section 1, write "minor under age 18" in the signature space, and complete the Preparer/Translator Certification per 8 CFR 274a.2(b)(1)(v)(B)(3).
• Receipts: An employer may accept a receipt for a replacement document if presented within the required time and the replacement is presented within 90 days of hire (or reverification date), per 8 CFR 274a.2(b)(1)(vi).
• Reverification: When employment authorization expires, the employer must reverify on Form I-9 by the expiration date, per 8 CFR 274a.2(b)(1)(vii).