Compliance for Contractors

Why Compliance is Critical

While much has been written about compliance from a business's perspective, ICs themselves should be equally aware of the importance complying with the IRS's guidelines for working independently.

All individuals working as ICs must understand that if they are found to be non-compliant with these guidelines, they will likely be reclassified as W-2 employees.

This can have significant ramifications:

• You may lose your contract.
• You may be liable for unpaid employer payroll taxes and fines.
• You may be directed to work as a W-2 employee of a third-party employer (such as a staffing company). This may result in less money as your billing rate will likely be adjusted to accommodate for the third-party's mark-up.
• Your client could face significant penalties and will be subject to increased IRS scrutiny for years.

This site gives you some background information on the importance of IC compliance and what impact it may have on your independent career.
Use the links below to learn more. 

Am I Compliant?

Learn more about the criteria by which compliance is determined and how you can be assessed.

What If I Pass?

If you're compliant, you're qualified to work as an independent entity. But it doesn't end there... 

What if I Don't Pass?

Non-compliant ICs must either become compliant or work as W-2 employees. Learn more.

More Information

 Read a variety of compliance-related materials and keep up with the latest headlines.