Making the Switch from W2 to 1099: Unlocking Your Investigative Career Potential
- EMT Holdings Team

- Sep 3, 2025
- 3 min read
The world of federal background investigations is evolving, and with it, the opportunities for skilled investigators to take control of their careers. At EMT Holdings, we've witnessed firsthand the transformation that happens when talented investigators make the leap from traditional W2 employment to 1099 contract work. After 20 years in the investigative services industry, we've seen countless professionals discover newfound freedom, flexibility, and financial growth through contract work.

If you're considering making this transition, you're not alone. The shift from W2 to 1099 status represents more than just a change in tax forms: it's a strategic career move that can unlock opportunities in the contracting space.
The Freedom to Shape Your Career as a 1099
One of the most compelling aspects of 1099 work is the autonomy it provides. As a contract investigator with EMT Holdings, you're not just another employee number: you're a valued business partner with the flexibility to manage your schedule, choose your workload, and directly impact your earning potential.
Unlike traditional W2 positions, where your schedule is predetermined, contract work allows you to align your professional responsibilities with your personal life. Whether you prefer early morning interviews, need flexibility for family obligations, or want to maximize your earning potential by taking on additional cases, 1099 status puts you in the driver's seat.
Building Valuable Business Skills
Transitioning to 1099 work isn't just about investigation skills. It's an opportunity to develop entrepreneurial capabilities that will serve you throughout your career. You'll gain experience in client relationship management, business development, financial planning, and strategic thinking. These skills are increasingly valuable in today's economy and can open doors to opportunities beyond traditional investigative work.
We support our contract investigators in developing these business acumen skills because we understand that your success directly contributes to our collective success as partners in serving our clients.
The Security of Partnership with Established Companies
One common concern about 1099 work is the perceived lack of stability. However, when you partner with an established company like EMT Holdings, you gain access to steady work opportunities while maintaining your independence.
Our Investigative Services Division is expanding nationwide, creating consistent opportunities for qualified contract investigators. We've built strong, long-term relationships with clients that translate into reliable workflow for our contractor network. This combination of stability and flexibility represents the best of both worlds.
Professional Growth and Networking
Contract work exposes you to a broad range of cases, clients, and professional situations. This variety accelerates professional development and helps you build a more diverse skill set. You'll work on different types of investigations, interact with various state, local, or federal agencies, and gain exposure to the full spectrum of background investigation work.
The networking opportunities in contract work are also significant. You'll develop relationships not just within EMT Holdings, but across the contracting community. These connections often lead to additional opportunities and career advancement.
Technology and Support Systems
Modern 1099 work doesn't mean working in isolation. We leverage technology to deliver customer-centric solutions, and our contract investigators benefit from robust support systems and streamlined processes that make independent work more efficient and effective than ever before.
We provide the infrastructure and support you need to succeed while preserving the flexibility and independence that make contract work attractive. It's the perfect balance between autonomy and support.
Making the Transition Successfully
The key to a successful W2 to 1099 transition lies in preparation and partnership with the right company. Look for established firms with strong reputations, consistent workflow, and a commitment to supporting their contract workforce.
EMT Holdings has built its reputation on relationships formed over many years of federal government work. Trust and loyalty are the foundations of our business, and we extend that same commitment to our contract investigators. When you succeed, we succeed, making your goals our strategic priority.
Your Next Career Move
The investigative services industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, particularly in employment investigations. For qualified investigators, there has never been a better time to explore the opportunities that 1099 work provides.
If you're ready to take control of your career and join a dynamic team of professionals who value excellence and commitment, the transition from W2 to 1099 could be the strategic move that transforms your professional life.
The future of investigative work is flexible, rewarding, and filled with opportunity. At EMT Holdings, we're always looking for experienced investigators who are ready for the challenge. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of our rapidly growing, nationwide team where your success becomes our shared achievement.
The EMT Team
EMT Holdings
Tel. 703.637.4561





Comments