Self-employed workers

If you are a self-employed worker, you carry on one or more professional activities for your own account. Your client pays for your services in the form of a fee rather than paying you wages or a salary. The relationship with your client is based on a contract for services.

You have your own work tools and equipment and can make profits or losses. This is mainly what distinguishes you from employees. 

Labour standards

 
Self-employed workers are not covered by the Loi sur les normes du travail. Under the Act, they may not exercise a recourse with the CNESST.

Pay equity

Self-employed workers are excluded from the Loi sur l’équité salariale. This means they are not counted among the workers of a company. 

Occupational health and safety

Self-employed workers are not automatically covered in the event of a work accident or occupational disease. To be covered, they must apply for personal coverage (in French only). This coverage is optional.

Self-employed women are not covered by the For a Safe Maternity Experience Program.

Self-employed workers are not covered by the Loi sur la santé et la sécurité du travail.

Self-employed person who is considered a worker

A worker may have the status of a self-employed person with a ministry or other public body and be considered a worker with respect to occupational health and safety.

A self-employed person may be considered a worker by the CNESST. This means they are covered by their client in the event of a work accident or occupational disease. They are not entitled to other employee benefits, such as paid vacation and sick leave. However, they are entitled to pay equity.