top of page

How do I decide who is an employee & who is an independent contractor?

Deciding who is an employee and who is an independent contractor is a decision that a business must make.


It is not one that can be made just because it will avoid payroll taxes or because issuing a 1099 makes the administration of the business simpler. The consequences of assigning the wrong classification can be very costly.

IRS guidelines for making a good decision are based on the following common law rules. Notice that control is a major factor. There are many factors to consider so I recommend getting input from a CPA or attorney experienced in such matters. Note: Some states' rules are more stringent than the IRS.

Overview

Generally, an employer-employee relationship exists when the person for whom services are performed has the right to direct and control the individual who performs the services, not only as to the result to be accomplished by the work but also as to the details and means by which that result is accomplished. That is, an employee is subject to the direction and control of the employer not only as to what shall be done.


Behavioral control factors

Does the company control or have the right to control what the worker does and how the worker does his or her job?

  • Type of instructions given

  • Degree of instruction

  • Evaluation systems

  • Training

 
Financial control factors

Are the business aspects of the worker’s job controlled by the payer? (these include things like how worker is paid, whether expenses are reimbursed, who provides tools/supplies, etc.).

  • Significant investment

  • Unreimbursed expenses

  • Opportunity for profit or loss

  • Services available to the market

  • Method of payment

Type of relationship

Are there written contracts or employee type benefits such as a pension plan, insurance, vacation pay, etc.? Will the relationship continue and is the work performed a key aspect of the business?

  • Written contracts

  • Employee benefits

  • Permanency of the relationship

  • Services provided as key activity of the business

Other things to consider

Not all states use the IRS criteria. Be sure to check your state's rules to make sure you are in compliance.

Also read

The information provided in this website is for general informational purposes only. Readers should seek advice from a qualified attorney or tax professional regarding specific tax issues. Accessibilty Statement  Lawrence H. Hess CPA. All rights reserved.

bottom of page