Federal pension law entitles you to receive a calculation of your vested benefits once a year if you request it in writing from the plan administrator.

FORBES: The Big Chill

Apart from tax law, employee status carries protection under nondiscrimination laws, pension and benefits laws.

FORBES: 1099 Or W-2? Giving Or Receiving, Be Careful

Apart from tax law, employee status carries a host of nondiscrimination laws, pension and benefits laws and wage and hour protections that apply to employees but not to independent contractors.

FORBES: 1099 Or W-2?