Working as a Contractor Versus Employee: Pros and Cons

what are the advantages of working as a independent contractor

In this way, ICs can be very efficient and effective in their work right from the beginning. Both 1099 and W2 workers have their benefits and shortcomings, and so the best way to decide between the two is by comparing them side by side. Balancing work and life has immense mental and physical benefits, which will also help increase your productivity as a 1099 employee. Every 1099 employee and anyone else thinking about becoming self-employed should understand the benefits of working this way and weigh them against the merits of being full-time employees. But first, it is essential to understand the definition of a 1099 employee.

There isn’t a simple answer to this question; both types of work have their ups and downs. Read on to find out what the benefits of being an independent contractor are. With more freedom and flexibility, independent contractors tend to be happier and more optimistic than their full-time employee counterparts.

Independent contractors have flexibility over their working hours

Many freelancers find this rewarding because they like having control over their careers. This is not the case for all regular employees who sometimes face uncertainty regarding their professional careers. As tax season rolls around, being an independent contractor vs employee IC starts looking more and more enticing. As an IC, you pay much less in income tax than traditional employees because no federal or state taxes are withheld, which means that you pay less income tax than employees earning the same amount.

Is it better to be an employee or an independent contractor in Canada?

Usually, employees will not have any financial risk as any expenses will be reimbursed, and they will not have fixed ongoing costs. Self-employed individuals, on the other hand, can have financial risk and incur losses because they usually pay fixed monthly costs even if work is not currently being done.

If you seek to take advantage of 1099 employee benefits, you should hire aglobal PEOfirm likeMultiplier. Our in-house experts can seamlessly manage your payment requirements. For instance, we can streamline your monthly payments and get payslips from your employers in any corner of the world in your local currency. Moreover, we promise to help you get all the independent contractor benefits you deserve. Companies generally pay into a fund for their employees, making employees eligible to receive unemployment benefits. Contractors are typically not eligible for state unemployment benefits.

How To Succeed as an Independent Contractor

If you are looking for stability or growth in an organization, being an independent contractor is not the ideal choice for you. This question is quite subjective and really depends on a what you want both professionally and in terms of your lifestyle. Opting to be a freelancer or contractor does not only affect your professional career, but your personal life as well. Pacific Crest Group provides professional services that keep your business focused on your critical objectives.

  • We provide strategic Accounting and Human Resource services created specifically to help you meet your goals.
  • “Self-employed” is an umbrella term for individuals who still earn money but do not necessarily work as employees for anyone.
  • Non-employees have to cover all the taxes for their taxable income as an individual and for their small business.

As you consider the options, make sure to account for all of the pros and cons and weigh them appropriately. Some tradeoffs may be more important to you than others, so decide what kind of sacrifices you’re comfortable with. Whether you earn a salary or an hourly rate, your company will pay you consistently as an employee. This means you’re less likely to worry about paying bills on time. Here are some pros and cons of contract work versus full-time employment to help you decide.

No Required Training

As an independent contractor, you may earn more money than as an employee. Due to the contractor not being an employee, the contracting entity is not required to provide the contractor with employee benefits, such as the relevant social security contributions. This means the contractor will be responsible for covering their own benefits like health insurance, unemployment contributions, and any other contributions an employee may be entitled to.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using contractor?

  • Pro: It costs less overall.
  • Pro: You can hire for shorter term projects.
  • Pro: Contractors are usually highly skilled.
  • Pro: Contractors don't fall under many federal regulations.
  • Con: Retaining great talent is tougher.
  • Con: They won't be expected to have the same pride and investment.

But the lack of PTO could be a dealbreaker for you — even if it means you have more flexibility the rest of the year. Your company may have strict policies and processes on how you can complete your tasks. These may force you to adapt your work style rather than work in a way you’re comfortable with. As long as you meet your deadlines and attend any required meetings, you can work as early or as late as you want. Lead Build leaders that accelerate team performance and engagement. Care™ Drive productivity through sustained well-being and mental health for all employees with BetterUp Care™.