What is the Difference Between the I9 Form and the E-Verify System?

The I-9 form and the E-Verify system are tools U.S. employers use to verify a new employee’s eligibility to work in the United States. Still, they serve different functions and have distinct processes.

Form I-9

The Form I-9 is a legal requirement for all U.S. employers, regardless of the industry or state. The form is used to verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals hired for work in the United States.

E-Verify System

E-Verify is a federal database system that supplements the Form I-9 process. It allows employers to verify the information provided on the I-9 against databases maintained by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA). This system is optional for companies except in certain states or for federal contractors. 

Key Differences Between I-9 and E-Verify