Independent Contractor

Definition of an independent contractor: An individual who meets each of the following while performing a professional service for the university: has a degree of skill or area of expertise not normally available within the university; uses their own tools and equipment to deliver the service, performs the service for a limited period of time not to exceed six months; has complete control over the manner in which the work is performed; and normally provides such services in the open marketplace.  Source: administrative policy 3342-6-04.3.

To ensure compliance with university policy and federal tax guidelines, it is important that the nature of the service and provider be classified appropriately prior to the service being performed.

For questions, contact a member of the Compensation team at compensation@kent.edu or 330-672-2100.

Independent Contractor Review Process
  1. Department representative completes Independent Contractor Determination Form
  2. Department representative uploads unsigned agreement to Independent Contractor Determination Form
    1. Template Agreements (if contractor does not have their own agreement):
      1. Invitation Speaker Letter (doc)
      2. Professional Services Agreement (doc) Not to be used for international engagements outside of the United States.
      3. Additional terms, to be included with agreement when obtaining signatures (PDF)
  3. Human Resources will review the Independent Contractor Determination Form.
  4. Human Resources will send an email confirmation as to whether the university can engage the individual as an independent contractor.
Exemptions

For purposes of expedience and efficiency, the Limited Term Academic Engagement Letter can be submitted without completing the Independent Contractor Determination Form for categories of services that occur only one time, or one time per year, for a fee of $5,000 or less for the following circumstances:

  • Guest speakers or presenters for an academic course or event
  • Jurors/judges for an academic competition sponsored by an academic unit
  • Performances by guest musicians and/or artists for an academic course or event
Payment and Vendor Onboarding

Information regarding payment and vendor onboarding of independent contractors is available here Accounts Payable Information.

© 2023 Kent State University All rights reserved.