Certified Staffing Professional Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

I-9 forms must be completed at the time of hire because this is when an employer is legally required to verify the identity and employment authorization of a new employee. According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regulations, the I-9 form must be filled out by both the employee and the employer by the end of the employee's first day of work for pay. This ensures that the document is completed in a timely manner while also allowing the employer to fulfill their obligations in confirming that the employee is eligible to work in the United States.

Completing the I-9 form at earlier stages, such as during the interview or at the time of job offer, would not align with the legal requirements since employment verification is contingent on the individual being officially hired. Additionally, completing it at the time of separation would be irrelevant because the form is intended for verification purposes only while the employee is actively engaged in employment. Thus, the necessity for the I-9 completion at the point of hire is paramount for compliance with federal law.