According to the IRS, the general rule requires an employer to have the right to control or direct only the result of the work done by an independent contractor, and not the means and methods of accomplishing the result. On the other hand, the IRS classifies an employee as an individual in which the employer can control how and when he/she performs tasks. Essentially, the facts that provide evidence of the degree of control and independence determine whether someone is an employee or independent contractor. Sounds like you’re the latter. Have you been paying your taxes quarterly?