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Employee, worker or self-employed — which is your new hire?

verified Last reviewed 1 Jul 2026Rates current as of config 2026.2
bolt The short answer

The law decides status by how the work really happens: personal service, control, and mutuality of obligation. Employees get the fullest rights; getting it wrong risks back-tax and penalties. A recorded status check protects you.

The law decides status by how the work really happens: personal service, control, and mutuality of obligation. Employees get the fullest rights; getting it wrong risks back-tax and penalties. A recorded status check protects you.

The full plain-English guide is being written and reviewed. Meanwhile, the official guidance below covers the essentials, and the FirstEmployer app walks you through this step with the exact law on screen.

This guide is being expanded and solicitor-reviewed. The answer above is current as of config 2026.2.