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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.

DCWP’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

The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection reached a settlement with BuzzFeed Media Enterprises, Inc. over violations of NYC’s Freelance Isn’t Free Act. Under the settlement, BuzzFeed must pay restitution to 16 freelancers named in the settlement and any other eligible freelancers who file a claim.

• If you are named in the settlement: DCWP contact you on how to get payment. You do not need to file a claim.
• If you are NOT named in the settlement: If you are eligible, you must file a claim.

Eligibility
You may be eligible to receive compensation if you:

• Performed freelance work for BuzzFeed between May 8, 2019 and August 15, 2024, AND
• Were not paid or received late payment for your work

File a Claim

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