How is an independent contractor defined?

An independent contractor is defined as a person who performs a service for a fee without control from the employer. This definition emphasizes the distinction between independent contractors and traditional employees. Unlike employees who work under the direction and control of an employer, independent contractors operate autonomously. They manage their schedules, decide how to carry out their work, and often have multiple clients or projects, allowing for greater flexibility.

The concept of control is critical; independent contractors maintain a degree of independence concerning how and when they complete their tasks. This independence is a key aspect that differentiates them from employees, who usually have specific job descriptions, fixed hours, and are subject to the policies and procedures of their employer.

Other definitions presented in the options are indicative of employee relationships rather than independent contractors. Full-time workers generally have fixed hours and benefits directly tied to their employment status, whereas independent contractors do not enjoy such arrangements. The notion of being hired for permanent positions with benefits further aligns with employee status. Additionally, volunteers do not receive compensation for their work, contrasting starkly with the compensated nature of independent contractors' roles.