Am I considered self-employed?

The key to determining if you’re self-employed is to assess if you're in business for yourself or are the owner of your own business.

This includes any part-time businesses or private “side jobs” where you’re performing services in addition to a regular job or business.

You may also be self-employed if you’re an individual who:

• Is the sole proprietor of an unincorporated business
• Works as an independent contractor, consultant, or freelancer
• Is a member of a business partnership
• Owns or is part of a limited liability company (LLC)
• Earns income through investments
• Earns income through rental property

You may not think of yourself as running a business, but you’re considered self-employed if you engage in business-like activities.

Business activities include any activity where you:

• Intend to make a profit (even if you operate at a loss)
• Have regular transactions or production of income
• Make ongoing efforts to sustain, grow, or further the interests of your business

When you’re self-employed, you may receive a 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, or 1099-K from the person or business that paid you.

But even if you don’t receive a 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, or 1099-K, you’re still responsible for reporting all your income and expenses from self-employment on your tax return.