Subordination in the performance of work is the most important criterion and may be decisive in determining your status.

If you are a self-employed person,

• your work conditions do not involve subordination;
• your client does not set your work schedule, decide where you will work or define your work methods;
• your client cannot prevent you from getting help, hiring a substitute or offering your services to more than one client.

If you are an employee, your employer usually

• establishes the conditions of your hiring and firing;
• sets your schedule and decides where you will work;
• defines your tasks and work methods;
• manages your activities and those of any substitute;
• controls the execution of your work and that of any substitute;
• may take disciplinary action against you.