For how long should a PPO retain the I-9 form for former employees?

The I-9 form, also known as the Employment Eligibility Verification form, is a critical document that verifies an employee's right to work in the United States. According to federal regulations, employers are required to retain this form for a specific duration after an employee's hire or separation.

The correct answer highlights that a Private Patrol Operator (PPO) must retain the I-9 form for either three years from the date of hiring or for one year after the employee's termination, whichever duration is longer. This rule provides flexibility and ensures compliance with the legal obligation to verify employment eligibility. Retaining the form for this duration helps to protect the employer against potential audits by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and it ensures that adequate records are kept should verification of an employee's work authorization status be necessary.

This retention policy underscores the importance of maintaining thorough and accurate employment records, which are essential for both compliance and management purposes within the security industry.