Pitfalls of Worker Misclassification

Misclassification of workers creates a minefield for Connecticut employers in Connecticut. The distinctions between “exempt” and “nonexempt” employees and the differences between “employees” and “independent contractors” cause confusion and angst for businesses and for the professionals who advise them.

An employee’s right to receive overtime pay is dependent on whether or not that employee is “exempt” from applicable federal and/or state overtime laws. Understanding the legal requirements for “exempt” status is imperative for employers to avoid substantial payment obligations, fines and penalties.

Likewise, businesses sometimes classify workers as “independent” contractors or “1099’s” and forego tax withholdings. However, applicable state and federal laws allow the classification of workers as “independent contractors” only when certain specific tests are met. This webinar will review the requirements of appropriate classifications to help navigate this tricky terrain.

Fee: Free but registration required

Meet Our Presenter:

Stuart M. Katz is a principal of Cohen and Wolf and chair of the firm's Litigation group. He is a member of the firm's Employment & Labor practice group, and chairs the firm's Diversity & Inclusion committee. Stuart represents employers of all sizes in defending discrimination and harassment suits and litigating restrictive covenant, breach of contract, business tort and wage claims. He has been named "Lawyer of the Year" for Employment Law (Management) (2018) and for Employment Law (Individuals) (2016) by the Best Lawyers in America, for the Stamford, Connecticut metro area. He routinely provides guidance to employers and employees regarding personnel policies, handbooks and employee discipline.

Please remember:

1. Monitor your emails for any updates to the date/location/time.

2. Our workshops are PAPERLESS, so you will receive an email the day before the workshop linking you to any handouts. You should print it out or load it onto a laptop, tablet, or phone for viewing.

3. Bring your cell phone as you will receive an email with a link to your workshop evaluation form. It will be sent to you toward the end of the workshop so you can complete it effortlessly online before you leave. Wi-Fi is available in most locations.

Please Note:

1. You must register online for all workshops. No walk-ins will be allowed for any paid workshops because we do not have the ability to take payment on the spot.

2. Please arrive with enough time to get settled as every workshop will start promptly.

SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. We have been doing this for more than 50 years.

Because our work is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration, and thanks to our network of 10,000+ volunteers, we are able to deliver our services at no charge or at a very low cost.

Find out more about our mission, vision and values ›

Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.