Independent Contractor Acknowledgment

<p>By registering on Automate America and accepting assignments, I acknowledge and agree that:</p><p><strong>I am an independent contractor, not an employee</strong> of Automate America, Inc., any customer, or any client company I am assigned to.</p><p>This classification is not merely a formality - it reflects the true nature of my relationship with Automate America and its customers.</p>

<p>As an independent contractor, I acknowledge that:</p><p><strong>I control my work:</strong></p><ul><li>I set my own schedule and hours</li><li>I determine how to complete assigned tasks</li><li>I may work for multiple clients simultaneously</li><li>I may decline assignments without penalty</li></ul><p><strong>I am not subject to:</strong></p><ul><li>Set work hours imposed by Automate America</li><li>Direct supervision of work methods</li><li>Mandatory attendance at company meetings</li><li>Performance reviews as an employee would receive</li></ul>

<p>I understand and accept that:</p><p><strong>No taxes will be withheld</strong> from my payments:</p><ul><li>Federal income tax</li><li>State income tax</li><li>Social Security (FICA)</li><li>Medicare</li></ul><p><strong>I am responsible for:</strong></p><ul><li>Paying my own federal and state income taxes</li><li>Paying self-employment tax (15.3%)</li><li>Making quarterly estimated tax payments (Form 1040-ES)</li><li>Maintaining records of income and expenses</li></ul><p><strong>I will receive:</strong></p><ul><li>Form 1099-NEC for payments over $600 in a calendar year</li><li>1099s by January 31 following each tax year</li></ul>

<p>I acknowledge that as an independent contractor, I am NOT entitled to:</p><ul><li>Health insurance</li><li>Retirement benefits (401k, pension)</li><li>Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)</li><li>Workers' compensation insurance</li><li>Unemployment insurance benefits</li><li>Disability insurance</li><li>Life insurance</li><li>Any other employee benefits</li></ul><p>I am responsible for obtaining my own insurance coverage.</p>

<p>I understand that I am responsible for my own:</p><ul><li>Tools and equipment</li><li>Transportation costs</li><li>Professional licensing and certifications</li><li>Continuing education</li><li>Office space and supplies</li><li>Communication expenses (phone, internet)</li></ul><p>These expenses may be tax-deductible. Consult a tax professional.</p>

<p>I acknowledge that I may need to maintain:</p><ul><li><strong>General Liability Insurance:</strong> Protects against third-party claims</li><li><strong>Professional Liability Insurance:</strong> For professional services errors</li><li><strong>Workers' Compensation:</strong> If required by my state for self-employed</li></ul><p>Certain assignments may require proof of insurance (Certificate of Insurance).</p>

<p>I represent and warrant that:</p><ul><li>I am legally authorized to work in the United States</li><li>I have all required licenses and certifications for my work</li><li>I will comply with all applicable laws and regulations</li><li>I have the right to enter into this agreement</li></ul>

<p>By clicking "I Acknowledge" or accepting assignments through the platform, I:</p><ul><li>Confirm I have read and understood this acknowledgment</li><li>Agree to the terms described herein</li><li>Acknowledge my status as an independent contractor</li><li>Accept responsibility for my own taxes and insurance</li></ul><p>This electronic acknowledgment has the same legal effect as a handwritten signature.</p>

<p>If you have questions about your classification or responsibilities:</p><ul><li>Automate America, Inc.</li><li>PO Box 1638, Greer, SC 29652</li><li>Email: legal@automateamerica.com</li><li>Phone: 586-770-8083</li><li>Consult a tax professional or attorney for personal advice</li></ul><p><strong>Disclaimer:</strong> This acknowledgment is informational. It does not constitute tax or legal advice. Consult qualified professionals for advice specific to your situation.</p>