Resolve E-Verify Case Results
Last updated: August 3, 2026
Overview
After an employee’s Form I-9 is submitted to E-Verify, the system returns a case result indicating whether additional action is needed.
Most cases are resolved automatically. However, some results require follow-up from the employer, the employee, or both.
This guide explains the most common E-Verify case results and the actions required for each.
Before You Begin
Before reviewing an E-Verify case result:
Confirm the employee’s Form I-9 has been completed.
Verify that all information submitted is accurate.
Review the employee’s start date and supporting documentation.
If incorrect information was submitted, correct the Form I-9 before creating a new E-Verify case.
Employment Authorized
Meaning
The employee’s information matched records maintained by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and/or the Social Security Administration (SSA).
No further action is required.
Employer Action
No action required.
Continue the employee’s onboarding and employment.
The case is automatically closed by E-Verify.
E-Verify Needs More Time
Meaning
DHS requires additional time to review the employee’s information.
Most cases are resolved within 24 hours, although some may take up to three federal government working days.
Employer Action
No action is required.
Continue to monitor the case for updates.
Do not delay employment or take adverse action against the employee while the case is under review.
Employee Action
None.
Tentative Nonconfirmation (Mismatch)
Meaning
The information submitted to E-Verify does not match records maintained by DHS or SSA.
A mismatch does not necessarily mean the employee is unauthorized to work.
Common causes include:
Name changes not reflected in government records
Incorrect Social Security Number
Data entry errors
Citizenship or immigration records that need updating
Document information entered incorrectly
Employer Action
Within 10 federal government working days:
Notify the employee privately.
Review the information with the employee.
Provide the Further Action Notice.
Ask whether the employee wishes to contest the mismatch.
Refer the case in E-Verify if the employee chooses to take action.
Do not terminate employment or take adverse action based solely on a Tentative Nonconfirmation.
Employee Action
If contesting the mismatch:
Follow the instructions provided in the Further Action Notice.
Contact DHS or visit an SSA office, depending on the type of mismatch.
Complete the required steps within the required timeframe.
Case in Continuance
Meaning
The employee has begun resolving the mismatch, but DHS or SSA requires additional time to complete its review.
Employer Action
Continue monitoring the case.
Wait for an updated case result.
Do not take adverse action while the case remains in continuance.
Employee Action
Continue following any instructions provided by DHS or SSA.
Close Case and Resubmit
Meaning
E-Verify was unable to process the case and requires a new case to be created.
This is commonly caused by incorrect information submitted on the original case.
Employer Action
Close the existing case.
Correct the employee’s information, if necessary.
Create a new E-Verify case.
Employee Action
None.
Final Nonconfirmation
Meaning
E-Verify could not confirm the employee’s employment eligibility after the verification process was completed.
This may occur because:
The employee did not resolve the mismatch.
DHS or SSA could not verify the information provided.
The required response deadlines expired.
Employer Action
Close the E-Verify case.
Follow your organization’s employment policies and applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Employee Action
None.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I terminate an employee after a Tentative Nonconfirmation?
No.
A Tentative Nonconfirmation simply indicates that additional verification is needed. Employers should not terminate, suspend, delay training, withhold pay, or otherwise take adverse action until a final case result has been issued.
Why did my employee receive a mismatch?
Most mismatches are caused by incorrect or outdated information rather than ineligibility to work.
Common reasons include:
Name changes
Typographical errors
Incorrect document numbers
Records that have not yet been updated with DHS or SSA
What if I entered incorrect information?
If incorrect information was submitted, correct the Form I-9 and create a new E-Verify case if instructed to do so.
How long should I wait before checking again?
If the case status is E-Verify Needs More Time or Case in Continuance, monitor the case periodically until a new result is returned.
Best Practices
To reduce E-Verify delays:
Review Form I-9 carefully before submission.
Confirm the employee’s start date.
Verify that document information matches the Form I-9.
Ensure uploaded document images are clear and legible.
Respond promptly to any requested employee actions.
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