Skip to content

Contractor Classification

Contractor misclassification is the largest compliance risk in global hiring. VoltPay helps you stay on the right side of classification rules.

A contractor has:

  • Autonomy over how, when, and where they work
  • Multiple clients (no exclusivity requirement)
  • Own tools and equipment
  • Defined deliverables (not just “show up and work”)

An employee has:

  • Set hours and location requirements
  • Works exclusively for one company
  • Uses company-provided tools
  • Is managed and directed in their work

Classification rules vary significantly by country. Key differences:

  • EU (Platform Work Directive): Burden of proof is on the company to prove contractor status
  • Brazil: Over 300,000 reclassification lawsuits in 2024
  • India: Relatively flexible, but GST registration required above thresholds
  • UK: IR35 rules apply under intermediaries legislation
  • Generates jurisdiction-appropriate contractor agreements
  • Flags relationships that show employment indicators
  • Monitors regulatory changes that affect classification
  • Provides expert review for borderline situations