National Independent Worker Day

National Independent Worker Day is celebrated on August 16 to recognize freelancers, independent contractors, small business owners, and anyone who works for themselves. In a world where full-time jobs are common, the way people work is changing, and more people are choosing to work independently. Independent workers have gone without national recognition for too long. Their contributions should be honored because they reflect the spirit of self-reliance and independence, which are core American values.

History of National Independent Worker Day

The United States recognizes and honors millions of freelancers, self-employed people, small business owners, contractors, and others who work independently. The word “freelancer” is often credited to Sir Walter Scott’s 1820 novel Ivanhoe, where it described a “medieval mercenary warrior” or ‘free-lance,’ meaning the lance was not committed to any lord’s service—though it didn’t mean the lance was free of charge. The term first appeared in Thomas N. Brown’s 1809 book The Life and Times of Hugh Miller. By the 1860s, “freelance” was used as a figurative noun, and by 1903, the Oxford English Dictionary recognized it as a verb.

In the U.S., independent workers include people from all ages, with a variety of skills, and earning different incomes. They share a strong desire to be self-reliant. This group is powerful and important, contributing trillions of dollars to the U.S. economy. It is a strong, growing, and evolving part of the workforce.

In 2019, iPSE-U.S., the Association of Independent Workers, created Independent Worker Day. iPSE is a non-profit based in the United Kingdom, originally founded in 1999 as the Professional Contractors Group (P.C.G.) to protest the IR35 tax law. Over time, it grew into a group representing all freelancers in the U.K., and in 2014, it changed its name to iPSE, representing 4.3 million freelance and self-employed workers in the U.K.

National Independent Worker Day timeline

National Independent Worker Day FAQs

How do I start freelancing?
First, figure out how your skills can help potential clients. Then, focus on attracting the clients you want to work with. Next, showcase your past work, projects, and achievements by creating a portfolio to prove your abilities. Finally, set a fair price for your services by researching what your competitors are charging.

How are self-employed people taxed?
If you earn $400 or more in net profits from self-employment, you must file an income tax return. In addition to regular income tax, freelancers must pay a 15.3% self-employment tax in 2021.

What are the disadvantages of being a freelancer?
Freelancing has some downsides, such as no employee benefits, the need to stay accountable, difficulty in earning money at first, and the challenge of finding clients.

National Independent Worker Day Activities

1. Help a small business succeed
Small business owners put a lot of time and effort into creating products that meet their customers’ needs. Use this day to support a small business and encourage them.

2. Post on social media
If you’re a freelancer, self-employed, or an independent worker, share your story online. If you aren’t, but you know someone who is, give them a shout-out today!

3. Show off your talent
Today is for all self-employed people, no matter their age, race, gender, or religion. Take this opportunity to showcase your skills, and don’t underestimate yourself!

5 Interesting Facts About Freelancers

Most freelancers are female

Around 70% of freelancers are women.

Different career levels

Freelancers work at all levels, from entry-level positions to executive or owner roles, proving they aren’t limited to just one stage of a career.

A major economic force

The self-employed sector plays a big role in the economy, contributing $1.28 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2018.

36% of workers are freelancers

About 56 million Americans, or 36% of the workforce, are freelancers.

Different income sources

Around 25% of freelancers also have a full-time job, so they aren’t only relying on freelancing for their income.

Why We Love National Independent Worker Day

A. It encourages jobs that aid in income supplementation
Many independent workers use their freelance work as a side hustle to supplement their income. This group grew by 6.3% to 15 million people in 2019, an increase of over 40% since 2016.

B. Self-employed workers boost the economy
Independent workers play a significant role in the economy. In 2019, self-employed workers contributed $1.3 trillion to the U.S. economy, which is almost equal to the entire GDP of Spain.

C. It honors self-employed workers
While International Workers’ Day in May celebrates traditional workers, independent workers have their own day in August—and they deserve it!