HIRING A CONSULTANT OR SERVICE PROVIDER
● Start the process early:
- Most services require a Purchase Order, approved by Columbia University’s Central Purchasing Department. This process can take several weeks from receiving the initial request, processing the requisition, review and approval by the Purchasing Department.
- Work cannot begin until a contract is established.
● Know the requirements:
- PIs must adhere to the University’s competitive sourcing requirements.
- In rare circumstances sole source contracts are allowable. A robust justification demonstrating why the provider’s qualifications negate competitive sourcing is required.
- All agreements require a reasonable price analysis (e.g. market research, previous purchase order or competing bids) to show the university is paying a fair rate for all services.
- Consultants vs. Employees please review distinctions here.
● Submit paperwork to ISERP’s AP Team:
- Tax form
- Scope of Work
- Independent Contractor Certification (INDIVIDUAL)
- Resume/Client List (INDIVIDUAL) or brochure (COMPANY)
- Service Compliance Checklist
*Additional paperwork may be required by the Purchasing Department depending on the type of work.
Contact ISERP’s AP Team with any questions.