Do independent contractors typically receive benefits?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Sometimes
• D. Not sure

Answer: (B)

Independent contractor status means you’re self-employed rather than on the employer’s payroll. Benefits like health insurance, paid vacation, retirement contributions, and unemployment coverage come from an employer to an employee. Since contractors run their own business and aren’t on the employer’s payroll, these standard benefits aren’t included by default. They must arrange their own coverage and retirement, handle taxes themselves (including self-employment tax), and their pay often reflects this lack of benefits. So, typically, independent contractors do not receive benefits. There can be rare exceptions if a specific contract or platform offers some limited benefits, but that isn’t the norm.