How long do you have to keep I-9s of current employees?

The correct duration for retaining I-9 forms for current employees is two years after the date of hire, or one year after the employee’s termination, whichever is longer. This means that if an employee is still employed, the I-9 should be kept for as long as they are working for the company, and then for an additional two years following their termination, ensuring that employers comply with federal guidelines regarding employment verification. It's important to remember that the purpose of the I-9 is to ensure that employees are legally authorized to work in the United States, and maintaining these records is a crucial aspect of compliance for employers.

The other options do not meet the legal requirements: one year is too short, as it does not cover the full retention period for employees who might still be employed for longer than that. Three years overshoots the necessary duration, and while indefinite retention sounds secure, it doesn’t align with the specific regulatory mandates set forth by immigration law. Overall, understanding the proper retention timeframe helps in maintaining compliance and avoiding potential legal issues.