Independent Contractor Definition An independent contractor is an individual performing services who is subject to the control and direction of the university only as to the result to be accomplished, and not as to the means and methods for accomplishing the task. A person is not an independent contractor simply because there is an agreement as such or because the hiring department permits him considerable discretion and freedom of action. All employees who engage individuals or entities to perform services, process transactions related to the services, authorize charges, or manage overall risk for the University/Department should read Service Provider Payments (Consultants and Independent Contractors) Policies and Procedures. IRS Requirements The IRS has expressed concern that many colleges and universities are misclassifying employees as independent contractors and, as a result, are failing to pay substantial amounts of employment tax. Employment arrangements should be carefully examined to determine if the institution has properly classified its workers as employees or as independent contractors . While the law regarding employees and independent contractors has not changed, the IRS has given high priority to the correct classification of employment relationships and the tax implications of decisions made. The IRS requires the University to provide clear and convincing evidence supporting a decision to treat an individual as an independent contractor, usually in the form of the common-law question via IC Checklist. Departments are required to fill out IC Checklist to comply with IRS requirements. Verification of taxpayer identification number (TIN) The University is required to obtain a Form - W-9 (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification)/Guest Presenter Form and Substitute W9 Form to confirm correct tax identification numbers and obtain appropriate certifications.
Nonresident alien issues In order to comply with complex immigration and taxation laws, the University must provide adequate documentation prior to issuing payments to nonresident independent service providers. The University is required to obtain a Form W-8 Ben (Certificate of Foreign Status of Beneficial Owner for United States Tax Withholding) from all nonresident individuals.
Useful independent contractor information
Office hours and Location Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Location: Room L.300 at the lower level North entrance
Finance Dept Services Contact Tammy Taylor at 847-578-8512 or email tammy.taylor@rosalindfranklin.edu Christie Tipton at 847-578-3276 or email christie.tipton@rosalindfranklin.edu
Egencia (Expedia Corporate Travel) || IRS || Unclaimed Property Division