E-Verify Deactivation for Dormant Accounts Began Aug 1, 2016

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has issued a reminder to employers enrolled in the E-Verify program that, as of August 1, 2016, such employers must log into their respective accounts at least once every 270 days to remain in the program. If an employer fails to log in for 270 days, the E-Verify system will deactivate the account.

Background on the E-Verify Program

E-Verify is a mostly voluntary system for employer verification of employees’ work authorization. In some instances, employers participate as a prerequisite for eligibility to participate in a particular government program. For example, employers who sponsor F-1 students for STEM optional practical training (OPT) must participate in E-Verify.

Account Deactivation if Not Accessed Within 270 Days

As of August 1, 2016, if an employer’s E-Verify account is not accessed for a period of 270 days, the account will be deactivated. This change is tied to federal security guidelines.

Unlocking Account After Deactivation

Even if the USCIS locks an employer’s E-Verify account for non-use, this will not cause the data in the account to be deleted. Further, to reactivate the account, the employer does not have to re-enroll. Rather, effective August 21, 2016, the employer will be able to access a self-service feature on the E-Verify website to unlock the account. To do this, the employer simply must answer the same security questions used to create the account. Or, rather than reactivating the system online, the employer may contact the program or corporate administrator or call 1.800.741.5023.

Conclusion

Most employers would have a reason to access their E-Verify accounts periodically throughout the year. But, those who do not should make the effort to log in once or twice per year to ensure that the E-Verify enrollment remains active.

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