What Happens to the E-Verify Process During a Government Shutdown

When the U.S. government shuts down, E-Verify, the federal system used by employers to confirm new hires’ work authorization, typically becomes temporarily unavailable. This is because the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees E-Verify, cannot operate the program during a lapse in appropriations or statutory authority. 

As a result, employers are unable to access E-Verify, leading to a nationwide disruption in employment eligibility verification and compliance processes. 

Below, we’ll explain what happens to E-Verify during any government shutdown and highlight what’s different about the October 2025 shutdown. 

Note: This information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute formal tax, legal, or compliance advice. Always consult with qualified tax advisors, legal counsel, and your organization’s internal teams for guidance specific to your situation. Additional regulations may apply. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to official government resources and regulatory agencies.  

What Happens to E-Verify During Government Shutdowns

Whenever there is a federal government shutdown, E-Verify goes offline. Employers cannot enroll new users, create or manage cases, or get support. Here’s what to expect when E-Verify is down: 

While E-Verify is offline, employers cannot: 

• Enroll in E-Verify or create new cases 
• View, edit, or take action on existing cases 
• Add or remove user accounts, reset passwords, or update company details 
• Run reports or access account history 

In addition, E-Verify customer support is closed. This includes: 

• No phone or email support 
• No resolution of Tentative Nonconfirmations (TNCs) 
• Canceled webinars and training sessions 
• Suspension of Self Check and myE-Verify 

(E-Verify) 

How to Handle E-Verify During the Federal Shutdown

The October 2025 shutdown has created new challenges for employers. On October 1, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security announced that E-Verify would be unavailable because of the funding lapse. 

To help employers manage risk during the shutdown, DHS has introduced temporary flexibilities: 

• Three-Day Rule Suspended: Normally, employers must create an E-Verify case within three business days of a new hire’s start date. That rule is paused for now. However, you must still complete Form I-9s within three business days as usual. 
• Extended Deadlines for Mismatch Resolution: The deadline for resolving mismatches is paused while E-Verify is offline. Employees will not lose time waiting for the system to come back online. 
• Paper I-9s Required: Employers need to complete and keep paper I-9s during this time, even for cases that were in “Pending Employee Response” or “Ready for Review.” 
• Federal Contractors: If you are a federal contractor covered by the E-Verify rule, contact your contracting officer to request a deadline extension. 
• Employee Protections: Employers are not allowed to take negative action against employees because of a pending or interim E-Verify case status while the system is down. 

(E-Verify) 

How Employers Should Manage I-9 & E-Verify Compliance

Even while E-Verify is paused, I-9 compliance rules still apply. Employers should: 

• Continue completing Form I-9s on time for every new hire. 
• Keep all documentation so you are ready to create E-Verify cases as soon as the system is back online. 
• Track any employees with pending mismatches and be ready to help them resolve issues when deadlines start again. 
• Communicate with your team to minimize confusion and inform them that this downtime does not impact their immediate work eligibility. 

Want a deeper dive into the I-9 process? 
For a complete overview of what’s changed on the I-9 form, rising fine structures, and how E-Verify fits into your broader hiring strategy, check out our blog: The Complete Guide to I-9 & E-Verify » 

How Greenshades Supports I-9 & E-Verify During the Shutdown 

During the ongoing government shutdown, the E-Verify system is temporarily unavailable. If your organization normally uses E-Verify, simply continue completing I-9 forms in Greenshades as usual and select the option to send them to E-Verify. Once the federal service is restored, Greenshades will automatically submit those cases on your behalf. This way, your onboarding stays consistent and you don’t have to worry about backtracking later. 

The Bottom Line 

Government shutdowns highlight just how much HR compliance relies on federal systems. For HR and payroll leaders, this serves as a valuable reminder to: 

• Build contingency plans for all critical compliance processes 

• Stay up to date with DHS and USCIS guidance 

• Partner with technology providers who can help you manage compliance disruptions 

Remember, even while E-Verify is down, I-9 rules remain in effect. Take proactive steps now to document your actions and keep onboarding on track, so you’re ready for a seamless transition when E-Verify service resumes.