What kind of employee records must an employer maintain to comply with federal law?

Employers are required by federal law to maintain records related to employment eligibility verification, primarily through the Form I-9. This form is critical because it confirms that employees are legally authorized to work in the United States. The Immigration Reform and Control Act mandates that employers verify the identity and employment authorization of individuals they hire, and this compliance involves keeping the I-9 forms on file for a specific duration. This record-keeping helps the government ensure that workers are not only eligible for jobs but also assists in combating illegal employment practices.

While payroll records, records of education, and time management records may be important for various business operations and compliance with state laws or internal policies, they do not directly pertain to the core requirement under federal law regarding employment eligibility. Thus, the necessity of maintaining records of employment eligibility verification stands out as a key obligation for employers.