Independent Contractor Written Agreements

GigSmart, a mobile application for job-seekers, was launched by co-CEO Becky Catino in 2016. The app aligns with Becky Catino’s focus on increasing economic opportunities for unemployed and underemployed individuals and helping all workers achieve a desirable work/life balance through autonomy.

The workforce is shifting away from the traditional employer-employee relationship. It is estimated that up to 50 percent of Americans will be independent contractors by 2020. The laws and terms regulating independent contractors differ significantly from those that cover part or full-time employees. Providing a well-written contractual agreement before beginning every job helps freelancers protect themselves and their business. Here are some issues written contracts help to avoid:

Miscommunications - Oral agreements can easily be misinterpreted. With a contract, both parties are able to set clear expectations regarding work terms, conditions, and compensation. A written agreement can also help the contractor support his or her claim as an independent worker to the IRS. Further, having a written record of employment is beneficial if there are any issues later on.

Ownership Claims - Many independent contractors in the creative field produce images, logos, and other original content for their clients. Unless ownership is discussed, agreed upon, and documented in a written contract, it can be difficult to determine who owns the rights to the work after the project ends. Similarly, clients should include non-disclosure clauses to protect any intellectual property they may share with the freelancer.

GigSmart is coming soon to the App and Google Play stores.

Comments