The New Form I-9 – Pre-Populating Information In Section 1 NOT ALLOWED

Although the rules are clear that Section 1 of the I-9 form must be completed by the employee, the recent introduction of the new Form I-9 in a PDF fillable format and the more widespread use of computerized systems for the I-9 process have raised questions about how information may be entered into Section 1.

Previous information from the Department of Homeland Security (prior to the release of the new form) indicated that it was permissible for someone other than the employee to enter information into Section 1, so long as the Preparer/Translator Section as also completed.  Further, many newer the electronic systems for the preparation of the Form I-9 enable the pre-population of information in Section 1 through the system.