Have you, as a freelancer, found yourself in a difficult situation where false self-employment is being discussed? Don't panic! There are steps you can take to strengthen your position and demonstrate that you are indeed self-employed. It's crucial to start gathering evidence that supports your business operations.
Consider contracts, invoices, and correspondence that highlight your entrepreneurial spirit. You can also use a model agreement to demonstrate a healthy client-contractor relationship. It's important to organize your work so that it fits within the framework of self-employment.
Moreover, legal advice is essential. Consult an employment law expert for support. They can help you assess your situation and propose appropriate solutions. By following these steps, you can actively work to refute allegations of bogus self-employment.
Recognize false self-employment and take action
Are you, as a freelancer, accused of false self-employment? This can have significant consequences for both you and your clients. It's therefore essential to take immediate action. False self-employment occurs when you work as a freelancer, but actually exhibit the characteristics of an employee. To avoid problems, it's important to demonstrate your status as a freelancer.
Check your agreements
If you have any doubts about your independence, start by carefully reviewing your contracts and work agreements. Make sure your agreements clearly state that you are working as a freelancer, with all the freedoms and responsibilities that entails.
- Investigating the employment relationship: Determine whether you act sufficiently independently of your client.
- Improving contractual terms: If necessary, adjust your contracts to clarify the relationship with your client.
- Using model agreements: Consider using a model agreement approved by the Tax Authorities.
- Capturing entrepreneurship: Provide evidence that you also work for other clients.
Document your business activities
A powerful way to demonstrate your independence is to maintain a portfolio or records that demonstrate your entrepreneurial spirit. This includes various clients, your own assets, and a clear business strategy.
Negotiate the terms with your client
Can you adjust the terms of your assignment so that you work more as a freelancer and less as an employee? Discuss your working method with your client and strive for changes that emphasize your independence.
Protect your position with a rock-solid website
A professional website can be an important testament to your entrepreneurial spirit. With a complete ZZP website package from Flexamedia, you'll have a representative online presence that emphasizes your independence – all at a competitive price.
- Position yourself online: Show that you run your own business and are not dependent on one client.
- Show your expertise: Use your website to clearly showcase your knowledge and skills.
- Expand network: Present projects and customer references to strengthen your network.
- Client visibility: Showcase diversity in your customer base through your website, which indicates independent entrepreneurship.
Focus on advice and support
Can't figure it out yourself? Then seek legal assistance or advisors with experience working with freelancers and the DBA Act. They can provide you with specific advice and guidance in securing your self-employed status.
Conclusion and call to action
Accusations of false self-employment are a serious matter, but by taking proactive action, you can strengthen your position. Creating a professional website gives you a professional image that further reinforces your independence. Avoid problems and claim your complete self-employed website package from Flexamedia, your partner in creating an online business card that emphasizes your independence. Want to get started right away? Then claim your complete ZZP website package here.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do as a first step in the event of accusations of false self-employment?
If you're a freelancer accused of false self-employment, it's crucial to immediately analyze your employment relationship. Check whether your work meets the criteria for self-employment: are you free to schedule your work, are you taking entrepreneurial risks, and do you have multiple clients? Gather contracts, emails, and other evidence that support your self-employment. This is essential for refuting the accusation.
How can I strengthen my position as a self-employed person against bogus self-employment?
Make sure your agreements clearly define the characteristics of self-employment. Use a model agreement approved by the Dutch Tax and Customs Administration to avoid misunderstandings. Regularly changing your clients and making it clear that you run your own business, for example, through a website or business cards, can also help strengthen your position as a self-employed professional.
What actions can I take in the event of a conflict regarding bogus self-employment?
In the event of a dispute regarding bogus self-employment, discuss the matter with your client to find a solution. If that doesn't work, seek legal advice from a specialized lawyer or legal expert. It can also be helpful to join a trade association; they often offer support and advice on these types of issues.







