How to protect yourself as an independent ESL contractor
Most online ESL platforms classify teachers as independent contractors (1099 in the US, Sole Trader in the UK, self-employed internationally). A contractor generally provides a skilled service using their own methods, tools, and schedule — that's the point of the classification.
When a contract controls your dress code and schedule, adds unpaid meetings and disciplinary fines, and enforces exclusivity while withholding the benefits of employment, teachers commonly read that as the worst of both worlds. You can often negotiate — the counter-offer template above exists because schools do amend terms when asked. For anything with real money attached, get advice from a lawyer in your area; this page is for information, not legal advice.