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How Physical Changes Impact ID Verification: I-9 Guidance for Age, Surgery, and Gender Confirmation

How Physical Changes Impact ID Verification: I-9 Guidance for Age, Surgery, and Gender Confirmation

Understanding How Appearance Changes Affect Biometric Matches and I-9 Verification with ZipID’s Inclusive Approach

Updated over 5 months ago

How Do Age, Accidents, Plastic Surgery, or Gender Confirmation Therapies Affect IDs, Biometric Matches, and the I-9 Process?

At ZipID, we understand that identity verification can be a sensitive matter, especially if you've experienced significant changes in appearance due to age, an accident, plastic surgery, or gender confirmation therapies. We’re here to make the I-9 verification process as seamless, comfortable, and inclusive as possible for you. Here’s how we approach identity verification to accommodate changes in appearance.


How ZipID Handles Identity Verification for Changing Appearances

Our I-9 onboarding process is designed to confirm your identity through a combination of biometric verification and biographic information on your official IDs. This process ensures compliance while respecting and acknowledging the unique experiences of each individual.

  1. Biometric Verification

    • Stable Features: Biometric verification focuses on features that are less likely to change, such as the distance between your eyes, jaw structure, and other measurable facial characteristics. This technology does not assess race, gender, or temporary appearance changes.

    • Consistency Across Appearances: Even with minor changes to your appearance, the biometric system is designed to match your selfie with the photo on your ID, minimizing issues and ensuring a smooth I-9 experience. Learn more about how biometrics work in ID verification.

  2. Biographic Information

    • Biometric checks are supported by biographic details such as your name, date of birth, and ID number, adding a second layer of verification.

Steps for a Smooth Verification Process

If you think that your current appearance is significantly different from what is shown on your government-issued ID, we recommend a few proactive steps to help ensure a seamless process:

  1. Speak with Your Employer

    • If you have concerns about your ID photo not reflecting your current look, consider discussing this with your employer before beginning the I-9 process. A quick conversation can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure smoother identity comparison during onboarding.

  2. Prepare for ID Updates as Needed

    • While not required, keeping your government-issued ID up to date can help make future verifications easier. For more information on how to update your ID, check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or the appropriate issuing authority.

  3. Know Your Rights and Privacy Protections

    • ZipID respects your privacy and is committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible. Biometric technology does not track race, gender, or temporary facial features, ensuring a fair and non-discriminatory verification process.


Our Commitment to Your Comfort and Privacy

At ZipID, we’re here to support you through every step of the I-9 verification process. We believe that HR compliance should be comfortable, nonjudgmental, and respectful of your unique journey. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out—our team is here to help and committed to making your experience a positive one.

For more information on the I-9 compliance process, visit the official USCIS I-9 Central.

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