Independent contractor agreements made easy
Enjoying the benefits of hiring independent contractors is simple when you understand and follow the law. LegalShield is here to help your business flourish.
Who is considered an independent contractor?
Hiring independent contractors eliminate your need to pay wage taxes, offer benefits or provide office space, which can save you 30-40% on labor costs, according to many pros. In order to be considered an independent contractor, the relationship must meet the following criteria.
- The payor/employer controls only the result of the work to be completed
- The contractor controls how the work will be done
- The contractor controls where and when the work will be done
Speaking with an experienced employment lawyer is an easy way to ensure your situation meets the requirements and you avoid penalties and back taxes.
Independent contractor agreements done right
One out of every 10 workers are considered independent contractors. The reality of your relationship is the ultimate determinant of whether a worker is considered an independent contractor. That said, the contract signed by the parties is an important element.
Whether you’re signing an agreement provided to you by an independent contractor or you need an agreement drafted to use with clients’ seeking to hire you, it’s a great idea to work with an experienced contract lawyer to make sure the agreement is correct.
With a membership from LegalShield, you can call your lawyer to get legal advice, submit an independent contractor agreement for them to review or work with them to draft a new agreement, all for a fraction of typical lawyer fees.
Have a lawyer resolve disputes
If a worker you have hired files a complaint or a labor auditor is investigating whether a worker is misclassified as an independent contractor, it’s important that you speak with an experienced employment lawyer as soon as possible.
Even unintentional misclassification can result in penalties of 1.5% of wages, 40% of the FICA taxes that were not withheld and 100% of the matching FICA taxes the employer should have paid.
Rather than stress and guess, get a LegalShield membership now. For a small monthly fee you can call your lawyer for advice and they can even make calls and write letters to the auditor on your behalf. LegalShield makes it easy and affordable.
Key features of our Small Business Legal Plans
LegalShield’s business plans can help you in the following areas:
Advice, consultation and research
Legal consultation from a provider lawyer on business legal matters, with legal research for each issue, if needed.
Letters or phone calls
Receive help with business legal matters more efficiently with professional communications issued on your behalf.
Document review
Put business-related legal documents through legal review.
Collection letters
A collection letter from a provider lawyer could help you recoup payments more efficiently.
How LegalShield works
Finding solutions to your legal issues doesn’t have to be stressful, complicated or expensive. LegalShield puts the power of legal representation within reach of any individual, family, or business. We work hard to make it easy, simple, and affordable to get the legal help you need, when you need it.
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