Be Your Own Boss

Before you assume that the employee/employer status does not apply to you an an independent business person, look closely at the relationship between you and your client. The appearance of an employee/employer relationship is enough to jeopardize your status as an independent contractor.

By paying careful attention to the terms and conditions of any contract between you and a client, you can avoid any dispute over copyright infringement and independent contractor status. And if you work without a formal contract, it is even more imperative that you give careful consideration to the following conditions.

Where and When You Work:

• Do not let the client tell you how you must do the work.

• Don't let the client set your working hours.

• Be wary of working at the client's place of business. It is safer to use your own place of business and your own equipment.

• Set definite time limits on each project. Open-ended work arrangements could be construed as an employee-employer relationship.

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