“This industry has recognized that the old employment model just doesn’t work. In a project driven field, the reality is that talented freelancers may be providing services to several studios in any given week or year, and traditional employment is not a good fit. And yet, the engagement of freelancers as independent contractors is detrimental to both the artists and the studios they serve,” remarked Gene Zaino, President and CEO of MBO Partners. “Moreover, studios are facing large federal, state and local tax risks due to the growing trend in worker reclassification cases. We’re honored to bring our many years of experience in solving these problems to an industry that is evolving.”

MBO Partners sets freelancers up with their own tax compliant business division, and they remain free to choose their clients, negotiate rates, and take allowable business deductions for expenses. At the same time, they get many of the advantages that can be expected from working through a big company, such as access to group benefits and coverage with business insurances.

To commence the launch, MBO Partners is offering a Fresh Start incentive program. Animators and VFX artists who enroll with a qualified project between today and January 31st 2010 will receive a $100 signing bonus in their MBO Partners account. Enrolled freelancers will also be eligible to receive $100 for every friend they refer who also enrolls, subject to program rules. “A new year is the perfect time to start off on a fresh tax footing; more independent contractors choose to switch to MBO Partners in January of each year than any other time. It makes business sense,” said Zaino.

Animation and motion graphics studios are equally excited about the breakthrough; already over a dozen notable creative houses have signed with MBO Partners. With this option, studios can maintain the flexibility of working with freelancers, but now gain tax compliance with regulatory agencies and realize significant administrative efficiencies.

Animation freelancers and motion graphics studios can learn more on the MBO Partners website for creative talent at
http://creative.mbopartners.com.

About MBO Partners

MBO Partners makes it easy for freelancers and their clients to work together. With their exclusive Portable Employer of Record service powered by the MyBizOffice® system, MBO Partners is the preferred alternative to self-incorporation for independent consultants, freelancers, 1099s, and independent contractors. For organizations that use freelance talent, MBO Partners is the most experienced provider of independent contractor payrolling, 1099 risk mitigation, and compliance solutions tailored to the needs of creative freelancers. http://www.mbopartners.com

About SIGGRAPH
SIGGRAPH 2010 will bring thousands of computer graphics and interactive technology professionals from six continents to Los Angeles, California USA for the industry’s most respected technical and creative programs focusing on research, science, art, animation, music, gaming, interactivity, education, and the web from Sunday, 25 July through Thursday, 29 July 2010 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. SIGGRAPH 2010 includes a three-day exhibition of products and services from the computer graphics and interactive marketplace from 27-29 July 2010. More than 200 international exhibiting companies are expected. More details.