Employment NZ Contractor vs Employee Guide: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to determine if you are an independent contractor or an employee to ensure you are paying the correct tax and ACC.
This guide provides definitions to help you understand the legal differences between being an independent contractor and being an employee.
Who it's for
This information is for all independent contractors.
What you get
You receive clear definitions designed to help you ensure you are not being misclassified. Misclassification happens when your actual working relationship does not match your legal status, which can affect your rights and responsibilities.
What it costs you
This information is free.
The catch to know
The main thing to watch out for is your level of exclusivity. If you work exclusively for only one client, you might legally be considered an employee rather than a contractor. This distinction is important because your status changes how you handle your taxes and your ACC status.
How to apply
- Review the definitions provided in the guide to understand your working relationship.
- Assess whether your current work setup aligns with contractor status or employee status.
- Consult the official portal for more detailed guidance.