Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of Form I-9?

1. Employment Eligibility Verification

2. Tax Withholding Documentation

3. Job Performance Evaluation

4. Employee Background Check

The correct answer is: Employment Eligibility Verification

The primary purpose of Form I-9 is to verify the identity and employment eligibility of individuals hired for employment in the United States. This form is required by federal law and must be completed by both the employer and the employee. By requiring the employee to provide valid documentation, the I-9 form ensures that only individuals who are authorized to work in the U.S. are employed. Employers must maintain these records in order to demonstrate compliance with immigration law and to avoid penalties for hiring unauthorized workers. While the other options pertain to important aspects of employment and payroll management, they do not relate to the specific function of Form I-9. Tax withholding documentation focuses on financial deductions, job performance evaluations concern measuring employee performance, and employee background checks are about assessing an individual’s history. None of these require the completion of Form I-9, which is strictly for verifying employment eligibility.