Freelance Worker and Hiring Party Assistance

The City’s Freelance Isn’t Free Act, which became law on May 15, 2017, creates new rights, remedies, and resources for freelance workers in New York City to help ensure they are paid on time and in full.

The Freelance Isn’t Free Act:

• Requires contracts between freelance workers and hiring parties that are worth $800 or more to be in writing.
• Prohibits hiring parties from paying workers late or underpaying workers.
• Protects freelance workers against retaliation for asserting their rights under the Law.

DCA’s Office of Labor Policy and Standards (OLPS) assists with issues that impact immigrants, people of color, and women in the workplace.

In addition, OLPS:

• Enforces key municipal workplace laws
• Conducts original research, outreach, and education
• Develops policies that are responsive to New York City’s evolving economy and workforce

Learn more about the Office of Labor Policy and Standards.

The Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) was renamed to the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP). The Agency was renamed to reflect their expanded mission to protect the rights of workers and ensure compliance with labor policy and standards.