How should businesses verify employee eligibility to work?

Verifying Employee Eligibility to Work in Alabama

Businesses in Alabama must verify that new hires are legally eligible to work in the United States. This process is essential for compliance and avoiding penalties.

Steps for Employee Eligibility Verification

• Complete Form I-9: Every new employee must complete the Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9. This form confirms the employee’s identity and work authorization.
• Review Acceptable Documents: Employers must examine original documents presented by the employee that establish identity and employment authorization. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, permanent resident card, or a driver’s license combined with a Social Security card.
• Retain Form I-9: Keep the completed Form I-9 on file for each employee for at least three years after the hire date or one year after employment ends, whichever is later.
• Use E-Verify (Optional but Recommended): Alabama employers can enroll in E-Verify, a free federal system that electronically confirms employment eligibility. While not mandatory statewide, using E-Verify helps reduce compliance risks and streamline verification.

Operational Considerations

• Training HR Staff: Ensure HR or hiring managers understand how to properly complete and retain Form I-9 and recognize acceptable documents.
• Recordkeeping Compliance: Maintain accurate records to support audits or inspections by federal agencies.
• Employee Classification: Verify eligibility before classifying workers as employees or independent contractors to avoid misclassification penalties.
• Automation Tools: Consider using HR software that integrates I-9 management and E-Verify to reduce errors and save time.

As of 2026, maintaining proper employee eligibility verification is a critical part of Alabama business operations to ensure compliance with federal immigration and employment laws.