Glossary

What is a gig worker?

What is a gig worker? A gig worker earns income through short-term, task-based, or platform-mediated work rather than from a single traditional employer. Gig workers are usually independent contractors, not employees, for the platforms they use.

Common examples

Rideshare and delivery driving, freelance design or writing, online task work, pet sitting, home services, and selling goods through marketplaces are all common forms of gig work. A single person may combine several of these at once.

The classification caveat

Worker classification (employee vs. independent contractor) depends on the specific relationship, jurisdiction, and current law. The same person can be an employee in one role and a contractor in another. Classification affects withholding, benefits, expenses, and tax treatment. This glossary entry does not decide anyone's classification; check current rules for your situation.

Records a gig worker should keep

RecordWhy it matters
Payer or platform, date, gross, fees, netShows what was earned vs. what was deposited.
Mileage and vehicle logsSupports the deductible business use of a vehicle.
Receipts and invoicesConnects each summary to a source document.
Forms 1099-NEC / 1099-K / 1099-MISCInformation returns from payers; not the full income record.

How Kronos relates

Kronos is an iOS money app built for gig workers and freelancers. It organizes gig-income records, 1099 documents, mileage, receipts, payment requests, and transfer status. KronosPay LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank or lender. Read the bank-status page.

Related glossary terms

Primary sources

General educational information only; not legal or tax advice.