One of the most frequently asked questions we receive from providers interested in locum tenens work concerns the tax implications of being an independent contractor. Here are a few basics to get you started:

• Locum tenens healthcare providers are considered independent contractors.
• An independent contractor’s earnings are reported on Form 1099, as opposed to the Form W2 that traditional employees are accustomed to seeing at the end of each year.
• Unlike a traditional employee, taxes aren’t withheld from an independent contractor’s paycheck.

There are advantages to being compensated as an independent contractor. For example:

• Independent contractors can deduct certain expenses that traditional employees can’t.
• As an independent contractor, you’ll be required to complete the 1040 long form, along with a Schedule C, Schedule SE, and whatever other tax forms and schedules might be required.
• Locum tenens providers who work in multiple states throughout the year will also need to file separate returns for each state.

Let’s take a closer look at what locum tenens providers can do to take advantage of the benefits of being an independent contractor in our free “Tax Guide for Locum Tenens Providers”!

Click here to download your copy!