Get your result in 7 minutes. 100% free, no hidden fees Developed by labor-law experts
With this test, you can assess the risk of potential false self-employment for you as a freelancer working for a client. Our tool can only provide a general initial check, but it does not provide a final assessment and does not replace legal advice in a specific case.
Determine your risk of false self-employment Learn through our test whether you could be false self-employed, and avoid legal issues.
1. Answer questions Answer typical questions from practice that help you determine your risk. It only takes 7 minutes.
2. Receive results by email Then you will receive an evaluation as a PDF in your inbox. There you will find all your answers again for reference.
3. Save and store Share the results with your client or file them for the event of an audit.
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False Self-Employment as a Freelancer: What You Need to Know The topic of false self-employment often causes concern and uncertainty among freelancers. But it is not that complicated. If you keep a few things in mind, you'll stay on the safe side and make sure that neither you nor your clients get into legal trouble. Read more in the article.
Frequently Asked Questions Here you will find answers to some questions about false self-employment.
What is false self-employment?
False self-employment means that a freelancer is treated like an employee by a client. They must take care of their own health insurance and don’t receive paid vacation or sick days, but are integrated into the company's processes and work according to instructions.
Why is false self-employment a problem?
False self-employment is contrary to the welfare state principle and is therefore pursued by institutions such as the German Pension Insurance. Among other things, clients must pay social security contributions in arrears and, in the case of intentional behavior, can even face a fine or imprisonment.
What are the consequences for freelancers in the case of false self-employment?
The consequences are less severe for freelancers than for clients, but they also have to pay back wage tax and are affected by a reversal of the sales tax paid. In addition, they can sue for a permanent position with the client.
How can freelancers avoid false self-employment?
Freelancers should make sure to work as autonomously as possible and to be involved in the client's processes as little as possible. They should provide their services independently and not receive any direct instructions. Further information can be found in this article.
