Any agreement with an independent contractor must clearly state the amount and timing of compensation, among other required information. File Required Tax Papers: Businesses must file tax documents, such as Form 1099NEC, for payments to independent contractors.Many businesses often mention here that the independent contractor will need to complete and sign an IRS Form W-9s. Understand your obligations: For example, have the independent contractor complete a W-9 and keep a copy in your records, keep records of your payments to them,. The Rural Law Initiative makes every effort to provide complete and up-to-date legal information. I hire or contract with individuals to provide services to my business. As Your Business Grows. After completing the three basic steps described above, you may start providing services as an independent contractor. An employee is not required to invest in the employer's business. Include a robust provision explaining clearly that the parties intend the relationship to be that of an independent contractor as opposed to an employee.