Contractor: Add a new contractor

You can pay contractors just like you pay employees. To pay a contractor, you'll need a tax ID number from them.

• If they provide a Social Security number (SSN, looks like 123-45-6789), add them as an Individual contractor.
• If they give you an Employer Identification Number (EIN, looks like 12-3456789), add them as a Business contractor.

To add a contractor:

1. Go to the Employees tab.
2. Click Add a Contractor.
3. If you just want to pay a contractor, click Make a contractor payment. (If you need to file a 1099-MISC form for a contractor, choose the File 1099-MISC option.)
4. Follow the steps on the Add a Contractor page.
5. If you have paid the contractor earlier in the current year, be sure to select the checkbox and enter the total amount you previously paid them.
6. Click OK.

Not sure if you are paying an employee or a contractor? See What is the difference between an employee and an independent contractor (self-employed person)?