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The pros and cons(iderations) of the gig economy

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The U.S. job market continues to be disrupted by the rise of the gig economy, as millions of Americans tap into this type of work as a main source of income or to earn extra money. And in some cases, gig work is helping people to learn new skills in different sectors. There are many reasons why you may be interested in the gig economy. Or maybe you never quite planned on joining but have found yourself as a gig worker out of circumstance. Either way, it’s important to understand the benefits and potential tradeoffs that can come with gig work.

What is gig work?

There are many types of roles that fall into the “gig” bucket, but what they all have in common is that workers are not considered full-time employees, and do not receive a salary. Gig workers generally take on temporary, short-term roles and are often called contractors or self-employed freelancers. There are many types of gig jobs, from app-based gigs where your responsibilities and schedule may change on a daily basis, to longer-term contractor positions that look a lot like traditional roles.

Who are gig workers?

The gig economy is filled with all sorts of jobs. Here are a few different types.

Unlike a salaried employee who receives a Form W-2, which indicates their employer deducted payroll taxes and withheld federal income tax, gig workers typically get a Form 1099-NEC from each company for which services are provided—meaning you are responsible for paying your taxes and making any required estimated quarterly tax payments.

Whatever your reason for joining the gig economy, here are some important financial implications to keep in mind.

Compensation

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Pro

The hourly rate for gig work often can be higher than similar, salaried jobs. Plus, in some contractor roles you may be eligible for overtime pay. And if it’s short-term, you may be able to overlap or complete many gigs each week.

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Consideration

You don’t get benefits like health insurance. And what happens if you get hurt on the job? In most cases, gig workers aren’t eligible for workers’ compensation, unemployment or disability insurance.

Taxes and expenses

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Pro

Many gigs may pay you in full immediately, meaning you could have a healthy cashflow coming in.

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Consideration

Taxes may not be taken out of your pay—but as a freelancer you still have to pay income and self-employment taxes to avoid penalties and interest. You’re also likely responsible for covering all work expenses like supplies and equipment.

Flexibility

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Pro

You’re the boss—and that could mean more motivation and potentially more personal income. You have the freedom to choose when you work, where you work and for how long. Additionally, controlling when you’re on the clock could help you more effectively balance work with caregiving responsibilities.

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Consideration

Your time spent hustling and networking to find new gigs is unpaid—and you don’t get paid for time off or your lunch hour. If you have to invoice your employer or client for work completed, you may need to wait 30 days or longer for payments to arrive. And if you’re signed up through ridesharing services or delivery businesses, you may have to pay a commission.

Variety

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Pro

Available roles can be quite diverse, from technologically focused gigs to hands-on work, and, as a result, offer access to new career skills, which helps if you’re between jobs.

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Consideration

You may be able to pick and choose your work, but because they are short term, you could be missing out on traditional career development opportunities like job training or mentorship programs.

Work life

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Pro

Without an office to get to, there are no commuting headaches and you could see some savings on monthly transportation costs.

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Consideration

You can feel isolated and not part of a team at times, missing out on company culture and structure.

Close Disclaimer

The material provided on this website is for informational use only and is not intended for financial or investment advice. Bank of America Corporation and/or its affiliates assume no liability for any loss or damage resulting from one’s reliance on the material provided. Please also note that such material is not updated regularly and that some of the information may not therefore be current. Consult with your own financial professional when making decisions regarding your financial or investment management. ©2023 Bank of America Corporation.

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