E-Verify Access Restored—What Employers Should Do Next

On October 1, 2025, E-Verify went offline due to the federal government shutdown, leaving employers unable to access their accounts or submit cases. A notice on the site explained that, during the lapse in federal funding, the system would not be actively managed, transactions might not be processed, and inquiries could not be addressed. This disruption created uncertainty for employers required to use E-Verify within three business days of hire, as the statutory timeline was suspended until the system became available again.

Without advance notice, E-Verify came back online late in the evening on October 7, 2025, and the platform remains accessible and appears fully operable. Employers are now able to log in and process cases.

Recommended Actions

Employers should take the opportunity to:

• Run backlogged queries accumulated since October 1
• Enter new hires into the system without delay
• Close cases that can be closed
• Address outstanding Tentative Nonconfirmations (TNCs)

Key Considerations

• While the system is functioning, it is unclear whether Social Security Administration (SSA) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) staff are available during the shutdown to assist employees with resolving TNCs.
• The three-day submission requirement remains suspended during periods when E-Verify is unavailable, but it is not yet clear when U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will restart the submission clock.
• No official notice has been released confirming the system’s return or providing formal guidance. Employers should monitor for updates from USCIS.

Further communication from USCIS is expected to clarify when the standard timelines and procedures will formally resume.

Maximus TCES will continue to monitor federal guidance related to E-Verify and I-9 compliance. If you have questions about how this update may affect your organization, please contact our team for guidance.