I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification

Federal I-9 form required for every employee hired at your tattoo studio, verifying identity and employment authorization. Must be completed within 3 business days of hire.

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What this document covers

Every employer in the United States, including tattoo and piercing studios, must complete Form I-9 for each employee hired. The form verifies both the employee's identity and their authorization to work in the U.S. Tattoo studios often have a mix of full-time artists, part-time piercers, apprentices, and front desk staff — all require I-9s if classified as employees. The form must be completed by the end of the employee's third business day of work. Studios must also retain I-9 forms for 3 years after the hire date or 1 year after termination, whichever is later. Note: independent contractors (booth renters/guest artists) do not require I-9s, but misclassification carries its own penalties.

Key sections included

Employee information and attestation (Section 1)
Employer review and verification of identity documents (Section 2)
Acceptable document list (List A, B, and C)
Timing requirements (Section 1 by first day, Section 2 within 3 business days)
Reverification and rehire procedures (Section 3)
Record retention requirements (3 years from hire or 1 year from termination)
E-Verify enrollment considerations
Anti-discrimination provisions (cannot specify which documents to present)

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an I-9 for guest artists who work at my studio for a week?

If the guest artist is a true independent contractor (brings own equipment, sets own hours, pays own taxes), no I-9 is needed. But if you control their work conditions, they may be classified as employees and require an I-9.

What about apprentices — do they need an I-9?

If the apprentice is an employee (paid or unpaid but receiving training in exchange for work), yes. Unpaid apprentices performing productive work for your business are generally considered employees under federal law.

Can I make copies of identity documents?

You may make copies of documents presented for I-9 verification, but you must do so for all employees to avoid discrimination claims. Copies must be retained with the I-9. You are not required to make copies.

Document details

Legal basis: Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) § 274A; 8 CFR Part 274a; 8 USC § 1324a
Enforced by: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS); Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
Penalty for absence: Civil penalties of $252-$2,507 per form for first-offense paperwork violations. Knowingly hiring unauthorized workers: $627-$25,076 per worker. Criminal penalties possible for pattern or practice violations.
Category: Employment & HR

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