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

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.