Penalties for I-9 violations can be significant, and they vary depending on the type and severity of the violation. Employers are legally required to verify the identity and work eligibility of every employee using Form I-9, and failure to comply with these requirements can result in both civil and, in some cases, criminal penalties.
Types of I-9 Violations
I-9 violations generally fall into two categories:
- Paperwork or Technical Errors — These include missing forms, incomplete sections, or errors in documentation. While often unintentional, repeated or uncorrected mistakes can still result in fines.
- Substantive or Knowingly Hiring Violations — These occur when an employer knowingly hires or continues to employ someone unauthorized to work in the U.S. Such violations carry heavier penalties and can trigger additional investigations.
Possible Penalties
Civil fines for paperwork violations typically vary per form, depending on the number and frequency of errors. Knowingly hiring or continuing to employ unauthorized workers can result in fines in the hundreds or thousands per violation, along with potential criminal charges for repeated offenses.
Call Our Immigration Attorney in Rogers, Arkansas
Proper I-9 compliance is essential to avoid costly fines and protect your company’s reputation. Our team at Ferguson Immigration Law offers I-9 audits, training, and compliance support to help ensure your business meets federal requirements.
Call (479) 899-6299 today to schedule a consultation and safeguard your workplace from unnecessary risks.