Effective July 1, 2009, South Carolina businesses that employ 100 or more workers must verify the legal status of new employees and remove from their payrolls any worker who is not legally in the United States and authorized to work, and you can expect surprise audits. The requirements are a part of the South Carolina Illegal Immigration Reform Act that became effective on June 2, 2008.

Beginning July 1, 2009, all businesses in South Carolina are imputed a South Carolina employment license which permits an employer to hire employees. The imputed employment license remains in effect as long as the business abides by the law.

Employers who employ less than 100 workers have until July 1, 2010 to fully comply with the law. The South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation will investigate complaints and conduct audits of employers to assure compliance with the law.

Get more information on verification requirements, compliance dates, and penalties from the SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulations by clicking here.