Simple Independent Contractor vs. Employee Determination

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Independent Contractor vs. Employee Determination

Answer the following questions to determine your employment status:

Is your contract with the organization for a specific duration (e.g., 6 months)?
Yes No
Do you have a high degree of control over the work you do for the organization? In other words, is there a high degree of independence in the work that you do? If you are required to work at certain times, places, and follow specific instructions then select "no".
Yes No
Do you pay your own taxes (e.g., self-employment tax)?
Yes No
Can you determine your own prices for the services you provide?
Yes No
Do you use your own equipment to perform your work duties?
Yes No

Note: this is a simple interactive program designed to give you a basic idea of whether you are an employee or independent contractor. Different jurisdictions have different guidelines and employment law is complex. It should not be considered legal advice and it is important to contact a qualified labor attorney if you think that you may have been misclassified.

Sources & Further Reading:

• https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee
•  https://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/faq_independentcontractor.htm
• https://legal.thomsonreuters.com/en/insights/articles/independent-contractor-vs-employee-what-does-it-matter
• https://www.nlrb.gov/guidance/key-reference-materials/national-labor-relations-act 
• https://www.nlrb.gov/news-outreach/news-story/board-modifies-independent-contractor-standard-under-national-labor