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ARTICLE · 15 JUNE 2017

Avoid The Pitfalls Of NYC Freelancer Law

Jones Day
Jones Day
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Jones Day

Jones Day

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The Situation: New York City's "Freelance Isn't Free Act," which applies to freelance contracts and agreements, is now in effect.

United StatesEmployment and HR
Matthew Lampe
Matthew Lampe
Martin Schmelkin
Martin Schmelkin
Terri Chase
Terri Chase
Michael Gray
Michael Gray
Doreen Davis
Doreen Davis
Willis Goldsmith
Willis Goldsmith
Jessica Kastin
Jessica Kastin
Michael Casertano
Michael Casertano
Justin Martin
Justin Martin
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In Short

The Situation: New York City's "Freelance Isn't Free Act," which applies to freelance contracts and agreements, is now in effect.

The Impact: New York City law now dictates that all freelance agreements valued over $800 be in writing and requires prompt payment for services.

The Risk: Noncompliance could expose an employer to liabilities, including double damages for late payment, statutory damages, and attorneys' fees.

New York City's Freelance Isn't Free Act ("Act") took effect on May 15, 2017, and applies to any freelance contracts or agreements entered into on or after that date. The Act requires all agreements for freelance work of a value of at least $800 to be reduced to a written contract and requires full compensation for services to be paid by a date specified in the contract or within 30 days after completion of services where no date is specified.

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