Table of Contents
Is it illegal to be a freelancer?
Do employment laws apply to freelancers? Generally, no. Freelancers are treated as a business, so business laws apply. Thus employment law does not apply, unless a freelancer is “misclassified” and should be an employee under the standards above.
Can I do freelance work without a company?
Depending on the jurisdiction, freelancers may work without any registration of business provided that they pay taxes. Alternatively, freelancers may register as sole entrepreneurs. The latter form is the easiest way of doing business for freelancers.
Can freelancers get clients?
There is no freelancing career without clients, but that doesn’t mean you should reach out or pitch your services to just anyone. Since you have your niche from the first step, now do some research on who needs that kind of service.
What is AB5 law?
In September 2019, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed new state legislation, Assembly Bill 5 (AB5), into law. Effective January 1, 2020, AB5 affects independent contractors throughout California, radically changing 30 years of worker classification and reclassifying millions as employees.
Is freelancing legal or illegal?
Legality is governed by law of the land. If any such law or the employment agreement you signed prevents you from such activities as freelancing, then it is illegal.
Is a freelancer an employee under employment law?
Generally, no. Freelancers are treated as a business, so business laws apply. Thus employment law does not apply, unless a freelancer is “misclassified” and should be an employee under the standards above. However, there are minor exceptions in some states or cities.
Do freelancers own the copyright to their work?
Most work done by freelancers (writing, art, design, etc.) falls under “copyright.” If you are doing such work for a client and you have not signed a contract stating that the copyright belongs to the client (“work for hire”), then the copyright by default belongs to you, NOT the client (see Copyright for full explanation).
How do I protect my rights as a freelancer?
To protect your rights as a freelancer, you should get a good contract drafted by a lawyer to spell out exactly what the terms are when a client hires you. It may also be a good idea to form an LLC or corporation to protect your assets and possibly save on taxes.