Hiring the right talent is hard enough. Making sure every new hire is accurately verified is even harder.

U.S. employers are currently under more pressure than ever to comply with federal hiring laws, and that starts with properly managing Form I-9 and E-Verify requirements.

Mistakes in this process can lead to steep penalties, failed audits, and serious reputational damage. That’s why more businesses are turning to I-9 compliance software solutions to simplify and automate the process.

The challenge becomes worse when onboarding remote employees. Verifying documents across state lines, keeping up with changing regulations, and maintaining secure digital records can overwhelm HR teams.

Remote I-9 verification tools and E-Verify onboarding platforms now help distributed teams stay compliant while ensuring a smooth new-hire experience.

This guide explores the best I-9 and E-Verify compliance platforms of 2025, including features and benefits to help you make the right decision.

What is Form I-9?

Form I-9, the Employment Eligibility Verification form, is a federal legal requirement for all U.S. employers. As mandated by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, employers must complete an I-9 for each newly hired employee to verify their identity and authorization to work in the U.S.

Employees must complete Section 1 by their first day of employment, and employers must complete Section 2 within three business days.

Failing to properly complete or retain Form I-9 can result in significant penalties under Section 274A of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). For example, employers may be subject to fines if they use outdated forms, neglect required fields, or improperly verify documents.

2023–2025 Updates to I-9

The August 1, 2023, edition of Form I-9 introduced several improvements, such as a streamlined, mobile-friendly layout, a separate Supplement A for preparer/translator certification, and a new Section 2 checkbox for remote document examination (for employers enrolled in E-Verify).

As of November 1, 2023, using this updated edition became mandatory; older versions became invalid. In 2025, USCIS released another revised form bearing an edition date of January 20, 2025, valid through May 31, 2027.

The main updates include changing the Section 1 category text from “A noncitizen authorized to work” to “An alien authorized to work”, updating certain List B document descriptions (replacing “gender” with “sex”), and revising the DHS Privacy Notice.

E-Verify and E-Verify+ systems now reflect the new language when creating verification cases.

What is E-Verify?

E-Verify is a free, web-based system provided by DHS and SSA. After completing Form I-9, E-Verify allows employers to electronically confirm the information from Section 1 and Section 2 against federal databases to verify an employee’s eligibility to work.

Participation in E-Verify does not replace the legal obligation to complete Form I-9. The process begins with the I-9, and then the employer enters the data into E-Verify to electronically match against DHS/SSA records.

When using a List B document for identity (combined with a List C for work authorization), that List B document must include a photo; a requirement specific to E-Verify.

While Form I-9 is universally mandatory, E-Verify remains voluntary at the federal level, except where mandated. Approximately 22 to 23 states now require E-Verify either for all employers or for certain sectors like public contracts.

Why Employers Need Digital I-9 and E-Verify Platforms

Eliminating Paperwork and Manual Errors

Digital compliance platforms empower employees to upload documents online, enabling HR teams to conduct reviews remotely and with greater accuracy. A platform like WorkBright simplifies the submission of I-9 documents, thereby reducing geographic barriers and challenges in remote hiring.

These systems prevent errors (like missing fields or mismatched dates) that can trigger audits by automating form completion and error validation.

Automating Reminders, Updates, and Audits

Tools like Paycom automatically send reminders 90 days before work authorizations expire and sync data with E-Verify without needing duplicate entry. These platforms also offer encrypted, centralized storage with audit trails that meet federal standards, ensuring HR teams are always ready for inspections or audits.

Streamlining Onboarding for Distributed/Remote Teams

Remote work requires modern solutions. Digital I-9/E-Verify platforms facilitate full remote onboarding: new hires complete forms, submit documentation, and receive verification, all from anywhere.

Remote E-Verify capabilities offer real-time feedback and intuitive online dashboards, thereby eliminating the need for in-person appointments. This streamlined experience supports flexible, distributed teams while reinforcing compliance at scale.

Cost of Non-Compliance vs. Investing in Compliance Tech

Federal penalties for I-9 violations can range from $250 to $5,500 per worker, including additional fines up to $1,100 per form for documentation errors, even if the worker is authorized.

For instance, Macy’s faced $275,000 in fines for discriminatory practices, McDonald’s $400,000 for accepting false documents, and ABC Professional Tree Services received a $2 million penalty for I-9 violations.

Modern compliance platforms (while requiring an upfront investment) deliver long-term savings by reducing audit risk, preventing violations, and offering superior scalability for high-volume hiring operations.

Best I-9 and E-Verify Compliance Platforms of 2025

#1 Tracker I-9

Tracker I-9, developed by Mitratech, is a leading cloud-based electronic I-9 compliance solution with a 20+ year track record; no client has ever incurred fines during ICE audits. It easily transitions from manual paperwork to a robust, digitized compliance ecosystem.

Features

• Automated E-Verify Submission: Smart workflows automatically send qualifying I-9s to E-Verify upon completion.
• Mobile and Remote Hiring Support: Optimized for iOS/Android, it enables secure document capture and coordinates in-person ID verification via 300+ Remote I-9 centers and mobile agents across all 50 states.
• Comprehensive Audit Readiness: Offers encrypted, cloud-based tracking, personalized dashboards, and deep audit trails, supported by industrial-strength integrations with HRIS systems and SSO.

Best For

Organizations of all sizes, especially remote-first employers and legal or HR teams looking for audit-proof, scalable, and intuitive compliance infrastructure.

Pros

• Impeccable audit record
• User-friendly interface
• Strong security
• Full-stack remote capabilities.

Cons

• Pricier (starting at approximately $2,500 per user/year) and occasional platform lag noted in user reviews.

Our Verdict

Tracker I-9 remains the gold standard for I-9 and E-Verify compliance. Its combination of proven reliability, automation, and user-centric design justifies its position among the very best remote onboarding solutions available.

#2 ADP I-9 Management

ADP’s I-9 Management, within its SmartCompliance suite, is a web-based solution that streamlines the entire Form I-9 and E-Verify process. It offers employer and employee portals, mobile access, and the flexibility of in-person verification at over 1,600 locations nationwide to fulfill Section 2 requirements efficiently.

Features

• Remote and hybrid verification: Supports document submission via employee self-service portals, with options for in-person or mobile-enabled review.
• Comprehensive audit and storage: Centralizes I-9 form storage (whether converted from paper or created digitally) while supporting ongoing review, tracking, and purging.
• End-to-end compliance automation: Within ADP Workforce Now integration, the platform includes E-Verify automation, internal audit support, remote hire workflows, alerts, dashboards, and detailed analytics.
• Wide integrations and vendor ecosystem: Part of ADP’s SmartCompliance suite, it integrates seamlessly with major HCM systems like Workday, Oracle, SAP, and Infor.

Best For

• Enterprise organizations using ADP or other large-scale HCM systems, benefiting from seamless integration and centralized compliance workflows.
• Remote-first employers who need strong support for remote or hybrid onboarding through agent networks or flexible verification methods.
• Organizations with distributed teams requiring uniform, audit-ready I-9 and E-Verify compliance across multiple locations.

Pros

• Comprehensive compliance features and audit tools
• Mobile access and extensive remote/in-person verification options
• Strong integration with the ADP ecosystem and major HRIS platforms

Cons

• Pricing not publicly available; requires direct inquiry
• May be overly complex or resource-intensive for very small businesses
• Some organizations may prefer more streamlined or lightweight options

Our Verdict

ADP I-9 Management stands out as a full-featured, enterprise-grade solution tailored for organizations that require rigorous compliance, scalability, and tight integration with payroll and HR workflows.

Its features, including audit support, remote verification options, and sophisticated dashboards, makes it a standout choice for U.S. employers who want to mitigate risk and simplify remote onboarding.

#3 Equifax Workforce Solutions (I-9 Anywhere)

I-9 Anywhere is offered by Equifax Workforce Solutions (formerly TALX) as a streamlined, hybrid solution for completing Form I-9 compliance. It helps employers facilitate remote and in-person verification by maximizing a nationwide network of trained I-9 completers, thereby ensuring legal adherence for new hires and rehires.

Features

• Hybrid Verification Model: Employees can complete Section 2 of Form I-9 through a live video call or at an authorized in-person location.
• Mobile-Friendly Interface: Onboarding is simplified via smartphones and tablets, allowing new hires to complete documentation wherever they are.
• Rehire Support: New modules now support Section 3 for rehires, automating updates when documents expire within the rehiring window.
• Audit Trail and Reporting: Secure digital tracking includes timestamps, reported histories, and encrypted storage.

Best For

This platform is suited for:

• Remote-first or hybrid workforce models needing flexible compliance workflows.
• Mid-size to large enterprises managing distributed teams or frequent rehires.
• HR departments prioritizing mobile access, audit defenses, and seamless digital workflows.

Pros

• Combines virtual and in-person verification 
• Mobile-first interface enhances usability for new hires 
• Automated rehire support reduces administrative burden 

Cons

• Occasional upload failures reported by users; must manage manual resubmissions 
• Pricing for “I-9 Anywhere” is extra atop I-9 HQ base plans 

Our Verdict

With a solid foundation in employment compliance, Equifax’s I-9 Anywhere brings much-needed flexibility to remote onboarding, especially with its dual-mode verification and rehiring capabilities.

While it’s more expensive, the efficiency and compliance safeguards it offers make it a top-tier platform for employers aiming to modernize I-9 processing without sacrificing audit readiness.

#4 Sterling I-9 and E-Verify

Sterling’s I-9 and E-Verify solution is a modern, end-to-end platform built and operated by Sterling (formerly part of First Advantage) to streamline employment eligibility verification.

It’s fully mobile-responsive and tightly integrated with E-Verify, thus enabling employers to automate the I-9 process from electronic completion to audit-ready storage.

Features

• Automated I-9 Workflow: Smart, line-by-line prompts and real-time validation help prevent mistakes; auto-submission to E-Verify ensures seamless eligibility checks.
• Centralized Cloud Storage: All I-9 forms and supporting documents are securely stored in a central cloud repository with full chain-of-custody and audit trail.
• Flexible Verifier Options: Employers can assign in-person company representatives, select notary or verifier networks, or let employees choose their verifier.
• iCIMS and Dayforce Integrations: Built-in integrations allow I-9 and E-Verify workflows within popular HRIS/onboarding platforms like iCIMS and Dayforce.
• Remote Verification (ID.me): Employers enrolled in E-Verify can leverage a virtual document review via ID.me’s trusted referees; fully compliant with DHS/USCIS and integrated into Sterling’s platform for faster, remote document validation.

Best For

This platform is suitable for:

• Remote-first organizations seeking flexible and compliant remote onboarding.
• Medium to large enterprises requiring robust integrations and advanced audit tracking.
• Companies using iCIMS or Dayforce, where seamless HR system interoperability is necessary.

Pros

• End-to-end automation dramatically reduces human error and manual tasks.
• Rich audit trail with cloud storage provides compliance safety.
• Multiple verifier methods and a mobile-friendly experience aid flexibility.
• Strong integrations with iCIMS and Dayforce streamline HR workflows.

Cons

• Pricing tends to be higher than smaller, standalone I-9 tools (enterprise focus).
• May be over-engineered for small businesses needing basic functionality.
• Setup and implementation require coordination with HR/IT systems.
• Some organizations may prefer independent verification without vendor lock-in.

Our Verdict

Sterling’s I-9 and E-Verify offering stands out as a comprehensive, scalable solution, especially for organizations that require remote flexibility, deep integrations, and solid audit readiness.

While its feature-rich design and enterprise-grade integrations may exceed the needs of very small employers, its reliability and automation make it a compelling choice for compliance-forward U.S. employers.

#5 HireRight I-9 Services

HireRight has long been a stalwart in global pre-employment screening, now offering a sophisticated electronic I-9 and E-Verify solution that integrates with its broader background screening suite.

In February 2024, they launched a Virtual I-9 Service, enabling remote verification via video calls in line with DHS’s Alternative Procedure.

Features

• Fully paperless I-9 management: collects, stores, and auto-notifies stakeholders regarding I-9 form completion and maintenance.
• Instant E-Verify eligibility checks, with dashboards that provide audit trails and detect duplicate records.
• Virtual I-9 verification via video, leveraging a nationwide network of authorized agents for remote-first teams.
• Seamless integration with ATS and HRIS platforms, such as iCIMS, making it the only provider with both screening and I-9/E-Verify within that ecosystem.

Best For

Mid-size to large enterprises prioritizing remote onboarding compliance, audit-ready operations, and tight ATS/HRIS integration, while maintaining centralized control.

Pros

• End-to-end digital I-9 experience
• Rich audit trail
• Streamlined remote workflows
• Strong integration capabilities

Cons

• User and candidate reviews highlight frustrations with customer support responsiveness
• Potential inefficiencies in screening and verification, with users citing false "missing" documentation flags or slow responses

Our Verdict

HireRight is a compelling choice for organizations seeking a comprehensive, remote-capable I-9 and E-Verify platform with a trusted background screening system.

Its virtual verification and robust integration ecosystem make it stand out, but companies should weigh potential support and candidate experience issues in their decision matrix.

#6 OnBlick I-9 Software

OnBlick is a SaaS-based HR and immigration compliance platform that excels in digital Form I-9 and E-Verify workflows. It enables employers to complete, update, and retain I-9s digitally while integrating E-Verify Web Services.

The platform also supports assigning authorized representatives for remote hires and maintains comprehensive audit trails for regulatory readiness.

Features

• I-9 and E-Verify Integration: Fully automated I-9 and E-Verify processing in one interface.
• Authorized Representative Assignment: Enables remote verification of documents within the required timeframe.
• Audit-Ready Trails and Retention: Logs every action taken on I-9s and retains rehire/reverification documents for compliance.
• Public Access File (PAF) Automation: Instantly generate PAFs for H-1B employees, simplifying audit preparation.
• Mobile Employee Self-Service (ESS): Offers document access and management on the go via mobile.

Best For

• Remote-first and dispersed U.S. employers who need efficient, compliant onboarding processes.
• Mid-market to small businesses seeking a unified transplant of I-9, immigration case management, and audit readiness.

Pros

• Highly user-friendly, praised for intuitive navigation and ease of use.
• Strong I-9 automation with live video verification (LVV) and PAF generation highly rated by users.
• Reliable customer support with responsive service.

Cons

• Pricing details are not publicly disclosed; prospects must contact sales for quotes.
• A few reviews suggest minor integration or mobile-related bugs, though support mitigates these quickly.

Our Verdict

OnBlick stands out as a robust, user-friendly solution for digital I-9 and E-Verify compliance, especially for remote or hybrid U.S. teams. Its strengths lie in easy document verification, proactive audit tools, and seamless process automation.

While pricing transparency could improve, its reliability, efficiency, and support make OnBlick a top pick for employers prioritizing compliant, remote onboarding.

How Startups Can Stay Audit-Ready With Chore’s I-9 and E-Verify Compliance Support

Managing I-9 and E-Verify compliance is all about protecting your business from mistakes that can derail its growth. Federal penalties for incomplete or inaccurate forms can run into thousands of dollars per violation, a risk no early-stage company can afford.

The challenge grows even more complex with remote hiring, where verifying documents securely and on time is a burden for lean HR teams.

Chore simplifies compliance by handling the entire back-office workload, from onboarding new hires to maintaining secure digital records. Our team ensures every Form I-9 is completed accurately, E-Verify submissions are filed on time, and records are stored in an audit-ready format.

For distributed teams, Chore enables seamless remote onboarding workflows, thus giving you confidence that compliance won’t slip through the cracks.

Instead of struggling with forms and deadlines, you can focus on building your teams while Chore manages the complexity of employment eligibility verification. Our compliance-first approach reduces risk, scales with hiring needs, and keeps startups positioned for sustainable growth.

Ready to protect your startup from I-9 and E-Verify mistakes? Partner with Chore today and stay ahead of compliance in 2025 and beyond.

FAQs

What is the difference between I-9 and E-Verify compliance?

I-9 compliance is required for all U.S. employers; it verifies identity and work authorization through employee-provided documents. E-Verify compliance is optional in most states (mandatory in some and for federal contractors); it electronically checks I-9 info against DHS and SSA databases.

In a nutshell, I-9 is the required form, while E-Verify is the digital system that confirms the form’s information.

Can remote employers legally complete I-9 forms online?

Yes. Remote employers can legally complete I-9 forms online if they are enrolled in E-Verify and follow DHS rules for remote document inspection, recordkeeping, and compliance. Employers not in E-Verify must still conduct in-person verification.

How long must employers keep I-9 records?

Employers must keep each employee’s Form I-9 for as long as they work at the company and then either 3 years after hire or 1 year after termination, whichever is later. Records should be stored separately from personnel files for easier audits and data protection.