What is the responsibility of an independent contractor regarding taxes?

An independent contractor is responsible for all federal and state income tax obligations related to their earnings. Unlike employees, for whom employers withhold and remit taxes, independent contractors receive their full payment without any deductions. This means that it is up to the contractor to set aside money for income taxes and pay them directly to the IRS and state tax authorities.

Additionally, independent contractors are often subject to self-employment tax, which covers Social Security and Medicare taxes, further emphasizing their responsibility for all tax liabilities. This self-sufficiency in managing taxes is a crucial aspect of being an independent contractor, distinguishing them clearly from traditional employee roles where tax withholding occurs through employer payroll practices.