Yes, E-Verify does conduct background checks. It is an internet-based system that allows employers to verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees in the United States. This electronic verification process helps employers confirm that their new hires are authorized to work legally in the country, with the aim of maintaining a legal workforce and preventing unauthorized employment.
1. How Does E-Verify Work?
E-Verify works by comparing the information provided by an employee during the Form I-9 completion process with records available in databases maintained by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA). Here’s an overview of the steps involved:
- The employer collects and verifies the required employment eligibility documents from the employee.
- The employer creates an E-Verify case by entering the employee’s information into the system.
- E-Verify instantly checks the information provided against federal government databases.
- The system then provides the employer with a result, confirming either employment authorization or a tentative nonconfirmation.
The entire process is completed online, ensuring quick and efficient verification of an employee’s work eligibility status.
2. What Information is Checked in a Background Check?
When a case is created in E-Verify, the system checks the following information to determine an employee’s work authorization:
- Employee’s name
- Social Security number (SSN)
- Date of birth
- Citizenship or immigration status
- Documents presented during the Form I-9 process
By comparing these details with the government databases, E-Verify helps employers ensure that the information provided is consistent and valid.
3. Key Features of E-Verify Background Checks
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Photo Matching | E-Verify allows employers to verify the authenticity of the employment authorization document (EAD), green card, or U.S. passport card presented by the employee by comparing the photo on the document with the stored photo in the Department of Homeland Security records. |
| Fraud Detection | The system includes tools and features to help detect potential identity fraud and document tampering, reducing the risk of unauthorized employment. |
| Monitoring and Compliance | E-Verify facilitates compliance with federal immigration laws by monitoring and recording the use of the system, ensuring employers use it properly and consistently. |
These features enhance the effectiveness of E-Verify as a background check tool and contribute to the overall goal of maintaining a legal workforce.
4. Limitations of E-Verify Background Checks
Although E-Verify is a valuable tool for verifying employment eligibility, it has certain limitations:
- E-Verify does not provide comprehensive criminal background checks. It focuses primarily on work authorization and immigration status.
- E-Verify might not catch identity theft or the use of fraudulent documents that closely resemble valid ones.
- The system relies on the accuracy and completeness of government databases for effective verification.
- E-Verify does not verify an individual’s previous employment history or education credentials.
Employers should consider these limitations and, if desired, supplement E-Verify checks with other background screening methods to ensure a thorough assessment of prospective employees.
5. The Importance of E-Verify Background Checks
E-Verify background checks play a crucial role in helping employers maintain compliance with immigration laws, prevent unauthorized employment, and establish a legal workforce. By verifying the employment eligibility of newly hired employees, businesses can protect themselves from legal and financial risks associated with hiring individuals who are not authorized to work in the United States.
It is important for employers to understand the scope and limitations of E-Verify to make informed hiring decisions and ensure they are meeting their legal obligations.