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?
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
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
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.
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.
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.