OPERS Independent Contractor Form_fillable PDF Form.pdf

This document is an Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS) Independent Contractor/Worker Acknowledgment form designed for individuals providing personal services to a public employer on or after January 7, 2013, who are not considered public employees. The form requires independent contractors to acknowledge their classification and understand that no retirement system contributions will be made for their services. The form must be completed within 30 days of beginning work for the public employer.

The document outlines specific criteria for independent contractor status, including being party to a bilateral agreement, being paid a fee or retainer, not being eligible for employee benefits, not appearing on a public employer's payroll, providing own supplies and equipment, and receiving an Internal Revenue Service Form 1099 for income tax reporting. The form also explains potential implications, such as the ability to request a determination of public employee status within five years, and warns that failure to comply or dispute the classification could impact future retirement system eligibility and potential reimbursement rights.