Employee vs. Independent Contractor
It is important for the University to properly classify potential service providers as independent contractors or employees. Prior to engaging in business with an individual that provides services to the University, a determination of status between independent contractor and employee is required by the Internal Revenue Service. The Employee/Independent Contractor Checklist should be used when a department needs the services of individuals to perform duties for Wake Forest.
The form is not needed for one time payments to guest speakers, panel participants, and roundtable participants.
If the company or individual completing the form does not agree with the determination, notification should be sent to Human Resources at AskHR@wfu.edu. At this time, the department should request the company or individual to complete IRS form SS-8 (PDF) “Determination of Worker Status for Purposes of Federal Employment Taxes and Income Tax Withholding”. If the determination by Human Resources is “employee”, the “employee” will be placed on payroll until a ruling from the IRS is made. The payment for services will be paid through Payroll and any business expenses incurred will be reimbursed by Accounts Payable.
If you have any questions, please contact Human Resources at AskHR@wfu.edu or 336.758.4700.