Definition
Day labor means short assignments, often one day at a time, for hands-on work such as loading, cleanup, moving and site support. Businesses use it to cover a spike without adding permanent staff. When day laborers are hired through an agency as W-2 employees, the agency handles pay, taxes and workers' compensation. Several states, including Illinois and Florida, have specific laws for day and temporary labor services, covering things like written work details, transportation and how pay is delivered.
This definition is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules vary by state and change over time.