Independent Contractors, Consultants, Sales Representatives, and Statutory Nonemployees

Millions of women earn their livelihood not as employees but as independent contractors. Special legal and tax rules apply to independent contractorsÑmany of whom function as consultants, sales representatives (also called agents or brokers), and statutory non-employees. The author is consulted by countless women every year who operate as independents and who wish to learn more about protecting their job security, billings, and commissions. This chapter will offer guidance to protecting yourself properly if you are an independent contractor.

A. Employee versus Independent Contractor Status
B. Steps to Take to Avoid Problems
C. Consultants
D. Statutory Non-Employees
E. Sales Representatives
F. How to Turn an Oral Contract into a Written Agreement
G. Steps to Take While Working
H. Steps to Take If You Are Fired