Bogus self-employment? Why it can get expensive
Self-employed on paper, but in everyday life tied in like an employee, working for just one client, bound by instructions, firmly scheduled? Then bogus self-employment may exist. That has significant consequences for social security contributions.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Have your status clarified →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Check the signs
Only one client? Instructions on time, place or content? Integrated like an employee?
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2. Apply for a status determination
Apply for the status determination procedure at the DRV (clearing office).
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3. Submit documents
Set out the contracts and the actual work processes; what matters is the practice actually lived.
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4. Clarify the consequences
If dependent employment is determined, contributions must be paid retroactively; get advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is bogus self-employment?
It exists when someone formally acts as a self-employed person but actually works like an employee, that is, bound by instructions, integrated into the client's organization and essentially working only for that client. The person then counts as a dependent employee under social insurance law, and social insurance contributions become due.
How can I have my status clarified?
Through the status determination procedure at the German Pension Insurance (clearing office). There it is decided in a binding way whether self-employed or dependent employment exists. What matters is not the title of the contract but the practice actually lived. The procedure creates legal certainty and can prevent back payments.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.