Is 1099 allowed on CPT

Asking for a friend. 1099 is for independent contractor. Is this allowed when you are on CPT? Usually people just do W2 right? I searched online and ppl say with 1099 you won’t have employer supervise so probably not legit for CPT requirement?

Anyone has experience on this?

:prohibited: 1099 (independent contractor) work is generally not recommended for CPT.

Here’s why:

CPT requires the work to be:

• Directly related to your field of study

• An integral part of your academic program

• Supervised and structured, often tied to a course

• Done under a bona fide employer-employee relationship

:briefcase: 1099 roles usually don’t meet those standards because:

• You’re considered self-employed

• There’s often no formal supervision

• You typically set your own schedule and don’t report to a manager

• USCIS may question whether it qualifies as CPT-authorized training

:white_check_mark: W-2 jobs are the safer and more widely accepted option for CPT, since they provide proof of employer oversight, defined job duties, and a formal structure that can be tied to your course.

:warning: Some people have taken 1099 jobs under CPT, but it’s a legal gray area and can trigger RFEs or denials in future H-1B or green card applications.

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CPT does not have specific regulations on the method of taxation; in fact, volunteers can also apply for CPT. 1099 can be used to apply for CPT.

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