Who Can Be Your I-9 Wingman? A Texas-Sized Guide
So, you're in the Lone Star State, trying to navigate the treacherous waters of I-9 compliance. Don't worry, you're not alone. Thousands of employers are grappling with the same question: Who can be my I-9 authorized representative? Let's break it down, Texas-style.
I-9: The Wild West of HR
Before we dive into who can fill out your I-9, let's quickly recap what it is. Essentially, the I-9 is a form that verifies your employees' eligibility to work in the US. It's like the immigration officer of paperwork. It can be a real headache, but it's a necessary evil.
Who's Your I-9 Buddy?
The good news is, you don't have to go it alone. You can delegate the I-9 duties to an authorized representative. But who qualifies for this prestigious role?
- Personnel Officers: These are the HR gurus who know their way around paperwork. They're like the sheriffs of the HR town.
- Foremen: The bosses of the worksite. They're the ones who know who's supposed to be where, so they can handle I-9s for their crew.
- Agents: Think of them as the deputies. They can help out with the I-9 process under the supervision of the sheriff (or personnel officer).
- Notary Publics: These are the official document witnesses. They can complete Section 2 of the I-9, but remember, they’re not acting as a notary in this case.
Important Note: While anyone can technically be an authorized representative, they must be able to perform all the duties required for completing the I-9. This includes reviewing the employee's documents and ensuring they're genuine.
I-9 Authorized Reps: A Few More Things to Know
- Employees can't be their own I-9 reps. It's like being your own judge. Just doesn't work.
- Notary seals aren't needed on I-9s. Even if a notary completes Section 2, they don't stamp it.
- Remote verification is possible. You can review documents electronically, but you still need to physically examine them later.
How To... I-9 Edition
- How to choose an authorized representative: Pick someone reliable and knowledgeable about I-9 compliance.
- How to train your authorized representative: Provide clear guidelines and access to necessary resources.
- How to ensure I-9 compliance: Stay updated on I-9 regulations and conduct regular audits.
- How to handle I-9 audits: Be prepared to provide requested documents and information.
- How to correct I-9 errors: Follow USCIS guidelines for making corrections.
Remember, staying compliant with I-9 regulations is crucial. By understanding who can be your authorized representative and following the proper procedures, you can avoid potential legal issues and penalties.
