What Are the Rules About Paying Independent Contractors?

Rules Governing Payment of Independent Contractors

If someone is properly classified as an independent contractor in Massachusetts, the rules about payment will be governed solely by the agreement between the parties.

If, however, that person was misclassified and should have been treated as an employee, they would be entitled to all the protections of the wage and hour laws. This would include overtime, where applicable, rules about the timely payment of wages and final pay laws, and minimum wage. It would also include the triple damages under the wage and hour laws for violation.

This can become a very big issue if you have been working as an independent contractor, or using independent contractors in your business, for a long time. It is important that you consult an employment lawyer if you are in either of those situations, to get clarity on how the Independent Contractor Law applies to you.

Learn more here about the Massachusetts Independent Contractor Law.