Independent Contractors and Temporary Employees (Update Available)


Overview/Description
Target Audience
Expected Duration
Lesson Objectives
Course Number



Overview/Description
Many companies are hiring contract or temporary employees to meet their changing staffing needs. Before hiring an independent contractor or temporary employee--also referred to as a contingency worker--companies should be aware of the costs involved along with the relevant legal and taxation issues. It is important that both parties have a clear understanding of the terms of their agreement with the appropriate distribution of risks and responsibilities. This course explains the differences between independent contractors and temporary employees, the benefits and drawbacks of both, and how to get the most out of your hiring practices. SkillSoft's Legal Compliance courses are developed and maintained with subject matter support provided by the Labor, Employment, and Employee Benefits Law Group of the law firm Sheehan Phinney Bass + Green PA.

Target Audience
Managers, supervisors, and employers

Expected Duration (hours)
1.5

Lesson Objectives

The Changing Face of Employment

  • identify the reasons for using independent contractors and temporary employees.
  • distinguish between temporary and permanent employees.
  • recognize the difference between independent contractors and permanent employees.
  • determine a worker's status using the IRS three-part analysis.
  • recognize the advantages and disadvantages of working with independent contractors.
  • recognize the advantages and disadvantages of working with temporary employees.
  • Hiring Issues

  • identify the main steps that an employer should take when hiring independent contractors.
  • identify the questions that an employer should ask of a prospective employment agency.
  • differentiate between examples of employer's and agency's responsibilities in a co-employment relationship.
  • select the records that your company should retain in the event of being audited by an agent from the government.
  • identify the government agencies that are entitled to review your company's employment practices.
  • recognize common compliance errors employers make when hiring independent contractors or temporary employees.
  • recognize the benefits of knowing the legal obligations associated with hiring temporary employees and independent contractors.
  • Course Number:
    LCO0121