Ready for E-Verify+? Not Without a Compliant I-9 System

Written by Melissa Prentice | Jul 17, 2025 11:35:39 PM
 

The Future of Employment Verification Is Here—But Are You Ready?

As new federal tools emerge to streamline employment eligibility verification, one thing is clear: confusion is growing. With the launch of E-Verify+ (also known as E-Verify NextGen) in 2024, many employers are asking:

“Do I still need to complete Form I-9?”

 “Is E-Verify+ enough on its own?”

The answer: Form I-9 is still mandatory for all U.S. employers - and E-Verify+ is not a replacement, but rather a next-generation enhancement that still relies on I-9 foundations.

Let’s break down the differences and clarify what your business needs to stay compliant.

What Is E-Verify+?

E-Verify+ (NextGen) is a new pilot program from USCIS designed to make the employment verification process more seamless for both employers and employees. For the first time, it integrates the I-9 process directly into E-Verify, shifting part of the responsibility to new hires.

Key Features of E-Verify+:

  • Employees enter their own biographic and work eligibility data via their myE-Verify account
  • The system verifies eligibility before the employer completes Section 2 of the I-9
  • Results are instant, and employees can resolve mismatches directly
  • Verification status becomes portable, allowing workers to carry it between jobs

While E-Verify+ shows promise, it is currently in a pilot phase, and participation is voluntary.

Form I-9: Still Required for All Employers

Despite this innovation, Form I-9 remains mandatory. E-Verify+ simply adds a new digital layer to streamline parts of the process. According to USCIS, all employers must:

  • Complete Form I-9 within 3 business days of hire
  • Retain completed forms for 3 years after the hire date or 1 year after termination - whichever is later
  • Present Form I-9s during audits or investigations by ICE, DHS, or DOJ

Why It Matters: Real Stats, Real Risk

Compliance mistakes come with real consequences:

  • In 2025, ICE continues to ramp up enforcement. Employers now face fines ranging from $281 to $2,789 per form for paperwork violations
  • In 2024, HDB Network Technology, Inc. was fined $92,879.20 by the U.S. Department of Justice for failing to prepare and/or present a Form I-9 for one worker and failing to ensure proper completion of Forms I-9 for an additional 48 workers. The violations included missing employer attestations and incomplete sections, highlighting the severe financial risks of non-compliance

Relying on E-Verify+, free tools, or partial automation isn’t enough. You still need a system that ensures every I-9 is completed, stored, and audit-ready.

I-9 vs. E-Verify+: Key Differences at a Glance

 
Feature Form I-9 E-Verify
Legally required? Yes – for all U.S. employers No – pilot only, optional for now
Who enters info? Employer and employee Employee enters data directly
Compliance scope Verifies identity and eligibility Confirms eligibility with SSA/DHS
Audit protection? Required for audits (ICE, DHS) Not sufficient without I-9
Portability? No  Yes – employee status is portable
 

Don’t Wait for a Fine to Find the Gaps

The biggest risk is assuming E-Verify+ does everything.

If your I-9s are incomplete, stored incorrectly, or not backed by a compliant system, you’re still exposed to liability—even if you’re using the newest tools.

How Clear I-9 Keeps You Compliant, Updated, and Protected

Clear I-9 is built for employers who want peace of mind—whether you're using traditional I-9 workflows, E-Verify, or exploring E-Verify+. Here's how it helps:

  • Automates and validates every step of the Form I-9 process
  • Fully integrates with E-Verify and supports E-Verify Employer Agent services
  • Includes Live I-9 Video Verifications via our Virtual Review Agent Network
  • Alerts HR teams of expiring work authorizations and upcoming re-verifications
  • Maintains a full digital audit trail—so you're ready when ICE comes knocking
  • Stays updated with the latest DHS and USCIS requirements and formats

Take Control of Your I-9 Process—Before It Costs You

With the rollout of E-Verify+ and increased scrutiny from ICE, now is the time to ensure your I-9 compliance system is built to last.

Clear I-9 helps HR teams simplify onboarding, reduce risk, and stay audit-ready—no matter what’s next.

Your next inspection doesn’t have to be stressful. Schedule your Clear I-9 demo today.
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