1099 Expert Amateur Promises

How to Separate the Experts From the Imposters

While researching an article I noticed several buzz words used heavily in the independent contractor compliance world kept appearing in my search results. To my surprise several companies not known as independent contractor compliance program specialist advertised expertise in a very niche area. In addition several new players offered similar services and expertise. The buzz words and pages filled with expert offerings/solutions to help employers avoid independent contractor land mines and "risk mitigation programs" can easily become overwhelming. Words like worthy co-employer, co-employment protection, legally engineered programs, risk mitigation programs and employer of record just to name a few.

How about those who tout a proven track record defending worker classifications in a state or federal audit? Seems employers looking for answers to questions like "who's after me and why should I care" or wish to align with a "worthy co-employer" need look no further.  It seems the industry is chock full of qualified independent contractor compliance specialist according to the advertisements. All claim to possess equal or superior levels of practical experience helping hundreds of employers reduce or eliminate risk!  Which solution is right for you and how can you separate the expert from the amateur?

Know your co-employers! Remember, aligning yourself with the right partner from the beginning will save you time, money and headaches in the long run. Ask hard hitting questions prior to making your final selection for a compliance provider. Claims of expertise and shiny marketing materials won't protect you in an audit!

Ask questions!
How long have you been providing this service?
What makes you an expert in this area?
How are you different from your competition?
How many IC evaluations have you performed?
How do you remain current on compliance issues, laws and pending legislation?
Do you provide support in an audit with the IRS, EDD or other auditing agency? 
Have you ever assisted a client in a state or federal audit or worker classification issue?
How many and which agency audits have you assisted clients with? 
What were the results of the audit(s)?
Have you ever had a worker classification overturned by a government agency? 
Which companies do you currently provide evaluation services for?
Can you provide 3 employer/client references or testimonials of your audit experience in similar industry?