What is an essential aspect of being classified as an employee?

To be classified as an employee, a key aspect is the level of control that the employer has over how work is performed. This means that employers typically dictate the details of how, when, and where the work is to be completed, which establishes an employer-employee relationship. When employers have the authority to set specific guidelines for work, it indicates that the worker is an employee rather than an independent contractor, who has more autonomy and control over their work processes.

Full-time employment is not a requirement for employee classification, as part-time workers can also be classified as employees. The obligation to pay federal taxes applies to employees, but it is not intrinsic to the classification itself. Similarly, the type of work performed does not solely determine employee status, as employees can engage in various tasks across different sectors. The defining characteristic is the degree of control exerted by the employer over the work, highlighting the nature of the relationship between the two parties involved.