Reminder: Update to the Most Recent Form I-9

Ensuring accuracy with Form I-9 completion has never been more important, and employers should take note of the most recent updates from the USCIS. In the last quarter, the Rising Tide HR team has audited close to 1,000 Form I-9s across various companies and found that roughly 20–30% contained errors. Common mistakes include missing employee information fields, listing identification documents under the wrong list type, omitting the employee’s start date, or failing to complete all of the employer’s required sections. Employers are required to ensure Section 1 is completed by the employee no later than their first day of work and to complete Section 2 within three business days of the employee’s start date. Accuracy and legibility are imperative, and every required field must be completed correctly to maintain compliance and avoid potential penalties.

In August 2026, USCIS released an updated Form I-9 with a new expiration date of May 31, 2027. For now, employers may continue using either version of the form dated August 1, 2023, one showing an expiration of July 31, 2026, and the other showing an expiration of May 31, 2027, until their respective expiration dates. However, if you download the form directly from the USCIS website, you will only find the version that expires May 31, 2027. To avoid confusion and ensure compliance, we recommend always using the most up-to-date version.

For the most up-to-date resources, forms, and guidance, visit I-9 Central or join one of their free Form I-9 webinars through USCIS.

If you discover errors in your I-9 forms or processes and need help correcting them, reach out to us for a free consultation on our I-9 services.