Do I have to complete the Form I-9 if I'm a U.S. citizen?

Last updated: August 2, 2026

Applies to: US employees (W-2).

Summary: Yes — every US employee completes Form I-9 regardless of citizenship. Ascen requires it complete before your first day of work: you fill in Section 1, and an authorized representative reviews your documents and completes Section 2.

Form I-9 verifies identity and work authorization for all US employees — US citizens included. Being a citizen doesn't exempt you; you simply attest to US citizenship in Section 1 and show the documents that prove it.

Ascen's requirement is stricter than the federal minimum. Instead of the federal "within three business days of starting," we require your Form I-9 — Section 1, Section 2, and the supporting documents — to be complete before your first day of work, and the platform holds time entry until it is. Getting it done early keeps your start on track.

Independent contractors (1099) don't complete Form I-9.

Official reference: Form I-9 (USCIS). Questions? Email support@ascen.com.

  • How do I complete the Form I-9?

  • Who can be my Authorized Representative for Form I-9?