By January 5, 2025, employers using E-Verify must download and save records for cases updated on or before December 31, 2014. After this date, USCIS will permanently dispose of those records. If your business enrolled in E-Verify before 2015, it’s essential to act now to ensure compliance and avoid issues during audits or system transitions.
Why Employers Need to Act
1. Protect Against Audit Risks
E-Verify records play a critical role in audits by agencies like the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or state labor departments. The Historic Records Report includes vital data such as case statuses and company information, which could be requested during an inspection or audit.
2. Ensure I-9 Compliance
Employers are required to document the E-Verify case verification number on corresponding Form I-9s. Alternatively, attaching the E-Verify case details to each I-9 form ensures compliance. Losing access to these records could result in compliance gaps and potential penalties.
3. Avoid Gaps During System Transitions
Businesses that have switched from paper I-9s to electronic systems—or have changed vendors—need to confirm that their E-Verify data was properly transferred. Older records, especially those from before 2015, are often overlooked, leading to data loss.
What Employers Should Do Now
1. Download Historic Records
Log into your E-Verify account and retrieve the Historic Records Report for cases updated before December 31, 2014. Don’t delay—these records will be deleted after January 5, 2025.
2. Review I-9 Forms
Ensure that the E-Verify case number is included with each I-9 form or that the case details page is attached.
3. Double-Check With Your I-9 Vendor
If your company uses an electronic I-9 system, verify with your vendor that all records—especially pre-2015 data—are securely stored and easily accessible.
Final Steps
By downloading and preserving these records now, your business will be better prepared for future audits and compliance checks. Don’t wait until it’s too late—take action before the January 2025 deadline.
NPZ Law Group is here to help with your E-Verify and I-9 compliance needs. Reach out to us for expert assistance.