For Tech Consultants & Recruiters Who Just Want Straight Answers
“Am I… a business now?”
That’s the usual reaction when someone first hears “Corp to Corp.” Don’t worry—you’re not accidentally starting Amazon. You’re just stepping into a more grown-up way to freelance. Let’s break it down.
💼 What is Corp to Corp?
C2C means you work through your own company—usually an LLC or S-Corp—and contract with clients as a business, not as an individual.
So instead of hiring you, the client hires “You, Inc.”
⚖️ C2C vs W2 vs 1099
Here’s the “I-don’t-have-time-for-this” version:
| Type | Taxes | Benefits | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| W2 | Employer handles it | Yes | 9-to-5 energy |
| 1099 | You handle it | Nope | Wild west freelancer |
| C2C | Through your biz | Rarely | Consultant CEO |
🚀 Why Do It?
For Consultants:
- Higher rates 💰
- Tax deductions (laptop, internet, coffee… yes, really ☕)
- Full control of your work style
For Recruiters/Clients:
- No employer taxes
- Less HR paperwork
- Access to independent experts
🧾 But What About Legal & Taxes?
To go C2C, you’ll need:
✅ An LLC (or S-Corp)
✅ An EIN (basically your biz’s SSN)
✅ A good CPA (aka your financial Gandalf)
It sounds complex, but once you’re set up, it runs smoothly. Think of it like a one-time boss battle.
🤔 Should You Go C2C?
C2C is great if:
✔️ You love contracting/freelancing
✔️ You’re earning enough to justify it
✔️ You want flexibility + tax perks
Stick to W2 or 1099 if:
❌ You want benefits + less admin
❌ You’re just testing the waters
❌ You’d rather never talk to the IRS
TL;DR: C2C = You’re the Business
Yes, C2C sounds fancy. But really, it’s just a smart way to work on your own terms. You’ll need to do a bit of setup, but the rewards? Freedom, money, and bragging rights at networking events.
Want a quick checklist to go C2C?
I’ve got one—just say the word.
Or if you’re a recruiter who needs to explain this to candidates 10 times a week, steal this guide (I won’t tell 😉).