What is one benefit of separating I-9 forms from employee files?

Separating I-9 forms from employee files offers the benefit of easier access in the event of federal investigations. I-9 forms are crucial for verifying an employee's legal eligibility to work in the U.S., and having these forms in a separate, organized location ensures that they can be quickly retrieved when needed for audits or inspections by government agencies, such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

This practice also emphasizes compliance with regulations, as keeping I-9 forms distinct from general employee records can help organizations demonstrate adherence to employment laws. By doing so, companies can mitigate risks related to fines or penalties associated with improper documentation or verification processes.

The other options do not address the primary legal rationale behind the separation of I-9 forms, which is fundamentally about regulatory compliance and ease of access during operational reviews.