Choosing between independent contracting and employment is not about which is better, it's about which fits how you want to work. Here is an honest comparison for licensed providers.
Autonomy
As a 1099 contractor, you generally choose your assignments, set your availability, and control how you organize your work. As an employee, your schedule and assignments are directed by your employer. If flexibility is your priority, independent work has a clear edge, but that flexibility is a responsibility, not just a perk.
Taxes
This is the most common source of surprise. As a contractor, taxes are not withheld for you. You are responsible for self-employment tax and typically for making quarterly estimated payments. You may also be able to deduct legitimate business expenses. Employees have taxes withheld automatically and receive a W-2. Neither is inherently cheaper, it depends on your situation, and it is worth a conversation with a tax professional.
The independent providers who avoid stress are the ones who plan for taxes from day one, not in April.
Benefits and coverage
Employees often receive health coverage, paid leave, and retirement contributions. Contractors arrange their own. Factor the value of benefits into any comparison of rates, a higher contract rate is not always higher net compensation once coverage is accounted for.
Liability and credentialing
As a contractor you typically carry your own malpractice/liability coverage and maintain your own credentialing. Keep your license, certifications, and CV current and organized.
Predictability
Employment offers steady, predictable income. Independent work can vary with the assignments you accept. Many providers value contracting precisely because they can scale up or down around the rest of their life.
So which fits you?
- Want maximum control over your schedule? Independent work fits.
- Want steady income and employer-provided benefits? Employment fits.
- Want defined, self-contained engagements alongside other work? Independent evaluation work is built for that.