Ten Important Things to Include In a 1099 Independent Contractor Agreement
Hiring independent contractors can be a smart move for your business. It helps you get specialized skills and extra help without the costs of hiring full-time employees. But dealing with those long and complicated 1099 independent contractor agreements can be scary.
These agreements are super important when you bring in freelancers to work for you. They make sure everyone knows what work needs to be done and protect you in case things go wrong.
But don’t worry, these agreements don’t have to be crazy complicated. You just need a few important things in them to make sure you and your contractor are on the same page. We’re going to break down the basics of hiring independent contractors and what should be in those agreements.
What is a 1099 independent contractor agreement?
It’s a fancy legal paper that both you and the person you hire (the contractor) sign. It says what work the contractor will do and how they’ll do it. This helps avoid misunderstandings from the get-go.
10 Must-Haves in a 1099 Independent Contractor Agreement:
- Independent Contractor Relationship: This part says the contractor is not your regular employee. They won’t get the same benefits or legal protections. They’re responsible for their own taxes.
- Scope of Work: This is where you describe what you expect from the contractor. It should be specific, like “create a 30-second radio ad in mp3 format.”
- Timeline: When do you need the work done? Be clear about deadlines.
- Payment Terms: How and when will you pay the contractor? Explain it here. Also, who covers expenses?
- Contractor’s Obligations: Any special requirements? Do they need licenses? Can they hire others?
- Confidentiality and Trade Secrets: Contractors often see sensitive info. This part says they can’t use it for themselves.
- Intellectual Property: It says your company owns the work the contractor does.
- Non-compete and Non-solicitation: These limit the contractor from working with your competitors or poaching your clients.
- Termination: When and how can the contract be canceled? Include notice periods.
- Disputes: If there’s a problem, how will it be resolved? Specify which state’s laws apply.
You might wonder if you need a lawyer for all this. With these agreements being complicated, getting legal advice is a good idea.
Contact one of our attorneys at Dike Law Group and schedule a meeting so we can discuss at dorismeet.com.
