From JDSupra, Diane Butler offers guidance on how to complete an I-9 form remotely. Diane writes:
Completing I-9s When the Employer’s Representative Works From Home
Employers are developing their communicable disease/illness policies in response to concerns about stemming the spread of the Novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).2 Many employers are developing flexible working arrangements, including remote, “work-from-home,” options. (See our COVID-19 resource page here.)
But what happens when the usual authorized representative is not on-site to review documents for timely completion of the I-9 form? DHS is inflexible on the regulation requiring review of original documents, and I-9 guidance specifically prohibits reviewing or examining documents “via webcam.”
However, the I-9 rules grant broad permission for employers to designate an authorized representative to review the documents and complete page 2, including personnel officers, foremen, agents or notary public. DHS does not require the authorized representative to have specific agreements or other documentation for Form I-9 purposes.
One change to the new version of I-9 clarifies in the instructions that an employer’s authorized representative can be “any person you designate to complete and sign Form I-9 on your behalf.”
Under the circumstances raised by COVID-19, DHS will consider “any person” even to include a family member or household member. The employer must take steps to ensure that the person understands the obligation and takes the responsibility seriously.
- The instructions remind the employer that, “You are liable for any violations in connection with the form or the verification process, including any violation of the employer sanctions laws committed by the person designated to act on your behalf.”
Employers also must remember not to discriminate against or tolerate discrimination against any employee who may be exhibiting symptoms of a communicable disease/illness.
