For how long must an employer retain the form I-9 for current employees?

An employer must retain the Form I-9 for as long as the employee is employed. This requirement ensures that employers maintain accurate records of employment authorization and verification for all current employees. The I-9 form serves to confirm that employees are eligible to work in the United States, which is a responsibility upheld by the employer.

When an employee is no longer employed, the employer must keep the I-9 form for a designated period of time, in this case, either one year after termination or three years after the date of hire, whichever is longer. This retention policy helps protect against any compliance issues related to employment verification should an audit occur at a later date. By retaining the form for the duration of employment, employers ensure that they adhere to federal regulations effectively.