I am a radiologic technologist and was workings for two orthopedic surgeons that were in a partnership. I would work for one of the doctors ...

Question

I am a radiologic technologist and was workings for two orthopedic surgeons that were in a partnership. I would work for one of the doctors on Mondays and Wednesdays and the other on Tuesdays and Thursdays. One of the doctors retired. He was the one that issued me my paycheck. The doctor that is left has decided to employee me part-time on Mondays and Wednesdays, but he is paying me as a contract laborer. I am now faced with having to pay self-employment taxes and estimated income tax. This is going to be a burden on me due to my reduction in work hours. Is this legal for him to classify me as a contract laborer instead of an employee? I am seeking other employment but have not been able to find any yet.

Answer

You are probably not a contract worker and should be paid as an employee with the appropriate taxes withheld and paid by the employer. The information you have provided is not enough to say with certainty this is the case. You should talk to an employment attorney in your area ASAP.