Yoga has become a popular form of exercise and relaxation in recent years, leading to an increase in the number of yoga instructors. As the yoga industry continues to grow, the question of whether yoga instructors are independent contractors or employees has become a hot topic.

Firstly, it`s important to understand the difference between an independent contractor and an employee. An independent contractor is a self-employed individual who provides services to a client or company on a project basis. They have control over how they complete their work and are responsible for their own taxes, insurance, and benefits. On the other hand, an employee works for a company and receives benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement benefits.

So, are yoga instructors independent contractors or employees? The answer is not clear-cut and varies depending on the specific circumstances of their employment.

According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), independent contractors must meet certain criteria to be classified as such. These include having control over how they complete their work, having a separate business entity, and being able to make a profit or incur a loss. If a yoga instructor meets these criteria, they may be considered an independent contractor.

However, some factors suggest that yoga instructors could be classified as employees. For example, if an instructor is required to teach at a specific studio or gym at specific times, this indicates that they may be an employee. In addition, if the studio or gym provides equipment, such as mats or blocks, and sets prices for classes, this also suggests that the instructor is an employee.

The classification of yoga instructors as independent contractors or employees has implications for both the instructors and the studios or gyms that hire them. If an instructor is classified as an independent contractor, they are responsible for paying their own taxes, obtaining their own insurance, and providing their own equipment. If the instructor is classified as an employee, the studio or gym is responsible for providing benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

In recent years, there have been legal battles over the classification of yoga instructors. In one high-profile case, a group of yoga instructors sued the yoga studio chain, YogaWorks, for misclassifying them as independent contractors rather than employees. The case was settled for $2.45 million in 2018.

In conclusion, whether yoga instructors are independent contractors or employees depends on the specific circumstances of their employment. While the IRS provides guidelines for determining the classification of workers, the issue is not always clear-cut. Yoga studios and gyms that hire instructors should be aware of the implications of misclassifying workers and ensure that they are following the appropriate guidelines. As for yoga instructors themselves, it`s important to understand the classification and be aware of their rights and responsibilities.