Whether you are contracting your services to others or hiring independent contractors to work for you, it's essential to get everything in writing -- if you don't, you could lose time, money and credibility.

Consultant and Independent Contractor Agreements gives you the plain-English instructions and easy-to-use forms you need to get the legalities straight, stay out of trouble and get the job done.

If you're an independent contractor...

Take the legal steps necessary to document each new project that comes your way -- if you get audited, you'll be glad you did. This easy-to-use book gives you all the tools you need to:

* Put your agreement in writing

* Define a project's scope, components and duration

* Satisfy IRS requirements

* Get paid on time and in full

* Avoid disputes with clients

* Drum up new business

If you're hiring independent contractors...

Using freelancers can get you great results and save you money-- but you need to know what it takes to avoid the ire of the IRS while protecting your business and intellectual property. Here's everything you need to:

* Put your agreement in writing

* Define a project's scope, components and duration

* Satisfy IRS requirements

* Protect your trade secrets, trademarks, patents and copyrights

* Avoid disputes with independent contractors

* Get your money's worth

The 5th edition is completely updated to provide the latest rules and regulations. It now includes a checklist to help prevent the IRS from reclassifying contractors as employees.