Cra Definition of Contract Employee
If you`re a small business owner, you may have heard of the term « contract employee. » Essentially, this refers to an individual who is hired by a company under a contract agreement rather than as a traditional employee. But what does this mean from a legal perspective?
Under the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) definition, a contract employee is also known as an independent contractor. Essentially, this means that the individual is responsible for their own taxes and benefits, and the company they work for is not obligated to provide these benefits.
There are several factors that the CRA considers when determining whether an individual is truly an independent contractor. These include:
– Control: Does the individual have control over their work, including the methods and materials they use? If so, this indicates they might be an independent contractor.
– Risk: Does the individual take on any financial risk by providing their services? This could include purchasing their own equipment or covering their own insurance costs.
– Integration: Is the individual integrated into the company`s operations, or are they truly working independently? For example, if the individual is required to work on-site and follow a strict schedule, this indicates they may be an employee rather than an independent contractor.
It`s important for individuals and companies alike to understand the difference between employees and independent contractors. Classification mistakes can have serious legal and financial consequences, including fines and back taxes.
If you`re unsure whether an individual should be classified as an independent contractor or employee, it`s always best to consult with a legal or HR professional who can provide guidance on the matter.
In summary, the CRA definition of a contract employee is someone who is hired under a specific contract agreement and is responsible for their own taxes and benefits. To avoid legal and financial pitfalls, it`s important to properly classify workers as either employees or independent contractors according to the CRA`s guidelines.