Musicians as Independent Contractor?

Question: Can musicians be considered independent contractors since they have to be there on Sunday and use church equipment?

Answer: It depends. If they are considered staff and must request to take a vacation or time off then they probably are an employee. If they are able to take off without compensation at any time then they are contractors. There is a difference in using church equipment and are required to use church equipment. If a musician uses the church piano or drums because transporting and setting up their own each week is not feasible they can still be considered a contractor. Most other musicians do use their own instruments...guitar, bass, horn, etc.

Forgive me for offering an opinion you did not request. If you have not started paying musicians, DON'T start. If you have, stop ASAP. This is slippery slope you will wish in the future you had not started down. This is an area you want people to volunteer in as their ministry...same for worship team singers, choir members, etc. Once you start down this road you will almost never be able go back.