Does Your school have its “i-9’s in order?

     Did you know that all congregations (including their schools and early childhood centers) and synods are required to have forms on file regarding the employment eligibility status of their employees?

     Under federal law, all employers - including congregations, synods and church organizations - must have a form on file that verifies the employment eligibility and identity of each employee.  The Immigration Reform and Control Act requires all U.S. employers to complete the Employment Eligibility Verification form (Form I-9) for all employees, including U.S. citizens.

     Every congregation, synod and church organization must have a Form I-9 in its files for each employee, unless the employee was hired before November 7, 1986, and has been continuously employed by the same employer.

     Fines for failure to comply with Form I-9 completion and verification rules are substantial.  For newly hired employees, verification must be completed within three business days of hire.  It is illegal to discriminate against legal aliens, based on citizenship status or national origin.

     There are many documents that have been approved to establish employment eligibility.  Among these are a U.S. passport, driver’s license, social security card, certified copy of birth certificate, and permanent resident card.  Be careful to note which documents are needed alone and which ones are needed in combination.

     The INS Web site containing useful information is www.immigration.gov

     Blank copies of Form I-9 can be found on the Web at www.immigration.gov/graphics/formsfee/forms/files/i-9.pdf

     For answers to common questions about the I-9, the INS set up this Web site:  www.immigration.gov/graphics/howdoi/faqeev.htm

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