E-Verify, the free, web-based system operated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA), has become a cornerstone of responsible hiring practices for many employers in the United States. It allows participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees by comparing information from their Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, against records available to the SSA and DHS. Building upon this foundation, E-Verify Plus represents an enhanced tier of the E-Verify program, offering additional features and functionalities designed to streamline the verification process, improve accuracy, and provide greater support to employers.

Understanding the Core E-Verify System

Before exploring the “Plus” enhancements, it’s crucial to reiterate the fundamental aspects of the standard E-Verify system:

• Electronic Verification: Employers electronically submit employee information from Form I-9 to E-Verify.
• Database Comparison: E-Verify compares this information against millions of records in SSA and DHS databases.
• Tentative Non-confirmation (TNC): If the information does not match, E-Verify issues a TNC, alerting the employer and providing the employee an opportunity to resolve the discrepancy with the relevant agency.
• Confirmation: If the information matches, E-Verify provides an employment authorized result.
• Voluntary Participation (Generally): While federal contractors and employers in certain states may be required to use E-Verify, for most employers, participation is voluntary.

E-Verify Plus: What Sets It Apart?

E-Verify Plus builds upon the core functionalities of the standard E-Verify system by incorporating additional features aimed at providing a more robust and user-friendly experience for employers. While the specific features might evolve, E-Verify Plus typically includes enhancements such as:

• Photo Matching: This is a significant enhancement where employers can compare the photograph on certain employee-provided identity documents (such as a driver’s license or permanent resident card) against images stored in DHS databases. This visual verification layer adds an extra level of security and helps to deter document fraud. The “acceptable documents” that support photo matching are typically specified within the E-Verify Plus guidelines and may include certain state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards, as well as the Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
• Enhanced Case Management Tools: E-Verify Plus often provides more advanced tools for managing verification cases, tracking their status, and generating reports. This can streamline administrative tasks and improve efficiency for employers, especially those with a high volume of new hires. These enhanced tools might include more detailed case history, improved search and filtering options, and customizable reporting features.
• Additional Training and Support Resources: E-Verify Plus subscribers may have access to more comprehensive training materials, dedicated support channels, or even personalized assistance to help them effectively utilize the system and understand their obligations. This could include advanced webinars, specialized user guides, and direct access to E-Verify experts for complex cases or policy clarifications.
• Integration Capabilities: E-Verify Plus might offer enhanced integration capabilities with employers’ existing HR and onboarding systems, further automating the verification process and reducing manual data entry. This could involve seamless data transfer between the employer’s systems and the E-Verify platform, improving workflow and accuracy.

Benefits of Utilizing E-Verify Plus

Employers who opt for E-Verify Plus can realize several key benefits:

• Reduced Risk of Hiring Unauthorized Workers: The enhanced verification features, particularly photo matching, provide a stronger safeguard against hiring individuals who are not legally authorized to work in the United States. This helps employers comply with immigration laws and avoid potential penalties.
• Improved Accuracy of Verification: The additional layers of verification can lead to more accurate employment eligibility confirmations, reducing the likelihood of errors and the need for employees to resolve TNCs.
• Streamlined Hiring Process: Enhanced case management tools and integration capabilities can contribute to a more efficient and streamlined onboarding process for new hires.
• Demonstrated Commitment to Compliance: Utilizing E-Verify Plus can demonstrate an employer’s commitment to adhering to immigration laws and employing a legally authorized workforce, potentially enhancing their reputation and reducing legal risks.
• Access to Enhanced Support: The additional training and support resources available through E-Verify Plus can help employers better understand and navigate the complexities of employment eligibility verification.

Enrollment and Participation in E-Verify Plus

Employers interested in utilizing E-Verify Plus typically need to enroll in the standard E-Verify program first. Information on how to enroll in E-Verify and whether there are specific steps or requirements to access the “Plus” features can be found on the official E-Verify website. The enrollment process generally involves agreeing to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with DHS and completing online tutorials. The availability and specific features of E-Verify Plus may vary depending on the employer’s type and location. Employers should carefully review the E-Verify website for the most current information on enrollment and available features in their specific circumstances.

Important Considerations for Employers Using E-Verify (Including E-Verify Plus)

Regardless of whether an employer uses the standard E-Verify or E-Verify Plus, it’s crucial to adhere to all program rules and regulations, including:

• Non-Discrimination: Employers must use E-Verify consistently for all newly hired employees and cannot selectively verify based on an individual’s national origin or citizenship status.
• Proper Use of Form I-9: Employers must still complete Form I-9 for every new hire and ensure that employees present acceptable documentation. E-Verify is used after Form I-9 completion. (Refer to the “I-9 Central” section on the USCIS website for comprehensive information on Form I-9 requirements).
• Employee Rights: Employers must inform employees of their rights in the E-Verify process, including the right to contest a TNC.
• Retention of Records: Employers are required to retain E-Verify records in accordance with federal regulations.
• Training: Employers and their staff who use E-Verify should undergo proper training on how to use the system correctly and comply with all requirements.

Conclusion

E-Verify Plus represents an evolution of the standard E-Verify system, offering employers enhanced tools and features, such as photo matching and improved case management, to strengthen the accuracy and efficiency of employment eligibility verification. By leveraging these advanced functionalities, employers can further mitigate the risk of hiring unauthorized workers, streamline their onboarding processes, and demonstrate a commitment to legal and responsible hiring practices. Employers interested in exploring the benefits of E-Verify Plus should consult the official E-Verify website for detailed information on enrollment, available features, and program requirements to determine if it is the right fit for their organization.