Personal services refer to services provided by qualified individuals that are based on special skills, judgment, and knowledge unique to them. These services, when legally binding, are typically rendered in exchange for a fee or other form of compensation. This term, “personal services,” usually appears in contracts, business documents, and other traditionally legal documents, to ensure that the services being provided are in line with the applicable legal regulations.
Modern Examples of Personal Services
Personal services can be applied in many industries and contexts. For example, tech companies may hire a software engineer for a one-off project and hire them as a personal service contractor; a business may contract a consultant on a particular issue that requires special knowledge or insight; or a company may hire a personal trainer to help their employees stay fit and healthy. Generally speaking, all services provided by one individual to another count as personal services.
Classifying Services as Personal Services
In order for a service to be legally classified as a personal service, it must be provided by an individual. It must also be based on that individual’s skills, expertise, knowledge, or personal qualities. These services will usually require the recipient of the services to compensate the provider for those services. Lastly, these services must also be documented or agreed upon in writing, either in the form of a contractual agreement or notification.
Tax Considerations for Personal Services
Individuals who provide personal services may be subject to taxes on their income. Depending on the type of services provided and the legal structure of the company, different tax considerations may also apply. Therefore, it is important to understand the tax code and what it means for you and your business when offering personal services.