I-9 Compliance and E-Verify: What Staffing Agencies Need to Know Now

Having spent most of my life in Minnesota, I know how unsettling periods of uncertainty can feel.  Recent events have created understandable concern for many employers and employees alike. When the environment feels unpredictable, even routine business processes can suddenly feel overwhelming.

In times like these, our role as staffing professionals is to provide consistency, stability, and confidence both to our clients and to the employees we serve. That starts with staying grounded in strong compliance practices, including I-9.

Embracing Diligence & Accountability in the I-9 Process

Form I-9 is used to verify an employee’s identity and authorization to work in the United States.  For staffing agencies, this process is part of daily operations and carries significant responsibility. Every form must be completed accurately, on time, and retained properly.

It goes without saying that attention to detail matters when it comes to managing your I-9 documentation process. While third-party reviews of the forms — like the ones ESSG provides — are helpful, the employer is ultimately responsible for signing and attesting to the accuracy of each I-9. Taking the time to double-check documentation and follow the requirements closely helps reduce risk and protects both your agency and your clients.

If there is ever uncertainty, hesitation, or a question about proper completion, that’s the moment to pause and seek guidance from an expert.

What E-Verify Means for Staffing Agencies

Now is also an ideal time to consider participation in the E-Verify program if you’re not already enrolled.  E-Verify is an online system that compares information from an employee’s I-9 form with government records to confirm work authorization. Participation is increasingly common, and many clients now ask staffing agencies whether they use E-Verify as part of their hiring process.

For staffing agencies, E-Verify can strengthen credibility and reinforce trust with clients who want assurance that compliance is being handled correctly. It also provides an added layer of confirmation that supports lawful hiring practices across placements.

You Don’t Have to Navigate I-9 Compliance Alone

Staying diligent with I-9 documentation, understanding how E-Verify fits into your operations, and knowing when to seek guidance all contribute to a stronger compliance foundation.

But compliance requirements don’t exist in a vacuum. Staffing agencies are balancing speed, accuracy, client expectations, and employee experience all at once. Managing E-Verify itself can feel overwhelming, especially with the number of rules, timelines, and nuances that come into play. Employers often have questions about enrollment requirements, case resolution, employee notifications, and how to remain compliant as regulations evolve. Ensuring everything is handled correctly isn’t just about checking a box. It’s about protecting your business and your workforce, which is why having the right support matters.

That’s where ESSG comes in. We work alongside staffing agencies to help manage I-9 compliance, guide E-Verify participation, and answer questions as they come up. With more than 20 years of hands-on experience working with E-Verify compliance, our team understands the details, the common pitfalls, and the best practices to keep you aligned with federal requirements so compliance feels clear, manageable, and confident.

ESSG is here to support staffing agencies as they navigate compliance, protect their business, and continue to be trusted partners to the clients and communities they serve.  Let’s talk.