Can We Legally Hire Each Worker as a Contractor to Save on PF and ESIC Costs?

jayesh-kakkad
Factory Act Compliance and Labor Contractor Management

We are registered under the Factory Act and have PF and ESIC registration. We employ four labor supplier contractors at the Palghar food processing factory. We pay salaries according to the Minimum Wages Act, deducting PF, ESIC, MWLB, PT, etc., as per the prescribed guidelines under applicable law.

Recently, we appointed a new CA who advised us, "Why are you paying such a significant amount under PF, ESIC, MWLB, etc.? It would be better if you appoint each person as an individual contractor to save a substantial amount."

Considering Individual Contractor Appointments

Is it possible to appoint each unskilled and skilled worker as a contractor? If yes, how can this be implemented? What would be the impact under PF, ESIC, GST, and IT law?

Regards
praveen446
Hi Friend,

Your CA has given you the wrong idea to implement. Appointing each contractor also attracts PF & ESIC. On behalf of the contractor, the Principal employer needs to pay the contribution.
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