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SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS DON'T MATCH?

Phoenix, AZ, September, 2007.

The Social Security Administration reports an alarming increase of "No-Match" letters being sent out to employers because of employee names and SS numbers do not match. The SSA sends a "Employer Correction Request Letter" informing the employer of the mismatch.

There can be clerical errors and name changes causing the No-Match, but unfortunately most often it is the submission of information for an alien worker who is not authorized to work in the United States or who may be using a false SSN or a SSN assigned to another person.

On September 14th 2007, a new rule went into effect. The new Dept. of Homeland Security (DHS) rule "expands employers" potential liability if the employer does not resolve the name and SSN mistake on employment documents.

To avoid the potential risks and penalties with No Match letters, DHS advises employers to:
  1. Check internal records for clerical errors within 30 calendar days
  2. Have the employee verify/correct information within 30 calendar days
  3. Complete a new I-9 within 93 days
If you become aware or are aware of information that an employee is unauthorized to work, you should take reasonable steps to investigate the matter. If the employee is not authorized to work employment must cease immediately. Otherwise, you may face sanctions, lose your business license and fined as much as $2,200 for a first offense. Some employers have already faced criminal prosecution for systematic violations of the immigration laws.

To verify the validity of your employees and if they are authorized to work in the U.S. utilize the following sites: United States District Court Judge Maxine Chesney issued a temporary restraining order against the DHS. The TRO was issued pending a hearing on the AFLCIO's move to obtain a preliminary injunction. That hearing will be on October 1st 2007.

Sincerely,

Brad Ghaster
President
Ghaster Paintings & Coatings