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The Self Employed Letter form plays a crucial role for individuals seeking a Certificate of Fitness within the New York Fire Department’s Bureau of Fire Prevention. This notarized letter is a formal declaration of self-employment and confirms the applicant as the owner of a business, including essential details such as the business address and type of certificate being applied for. Additionally, the letter requires applicants to disclose their experience relevant to the Certificate, enabling the department to evaluate qualifications more effectively. It is vital for the letter to affirm the applicant's good character and physical ability to perform necessary duties. The form must also be notarized, ensuring its authenticity. Furthermore, applicants should be mindful of several critical factors regarding the Certificate of Fitness tests, including the requirement of a minimum passing score, time limitations, and the importance of adhering to test security and fairness policies. Awareness of potential issues, such as delinquent child support obligations, is equally important, as these can impact eligibility to take the test. Overall, the Self Employed Letter encapsulates essential information, ensuring that applicants meet the necessary qualifications while maintaining adherence to departmental protocols.

Self Employed Letter Example

Self Employed Letter (Notarized)

______________________________________

(FIRM OR COMPANY NAME)

__________________________________________

(BUSINESS ADDRESS)

Date:__________________

Fire Department

Bureau of Fire Prevention

9 MetroTech Center

Brooklyn, NY 11201-3857

Dear Sir/Madam:

I, __________________________, am self employed. I am the owner of

(Owner’s name)

___________________________________________________________, located at

(Firm or Company name)

____________________________________________________________. I am applying for

(Business address)

the Certificate of Fitness for ______________________________________________.

(Type of Certificate of Fitness)

I have ___________________________ of experience relative to the Certificate.

(years, months)

I consider myself is of GOOD CHARACTER and is PHYSICALLY ABLE to

perform the duties required by the holder of the Certificate of Fitness.

___________________________

(Printed name of owner)

____________________________

(Signature of Notary )

____________________________

(Printed name of Notary)

___________________________

(Signature of owner)

NOTARY PUBLIC: [Notary Seal:]

My commission expires: _____________

Month/Day/Year

NOTE: THIS LETTER MUST BE NOTARIZED.

Fire Department - City of New York

Bureau of Fire Prevention

General Test Information

1.The computer-based Certificate of Fitness tests are multiple-choice questions, administered on a “touch screen” computer monitor. A passing score of at least 70% is required in order to secure a Certificate of Fitness.

2.All computer-based Certificate of Fitness tests are time-limit tests.

3.The study materials and the Notice of Examination are available on the following website: http://www.nyc.gov/html/fdny/html/c_of_f/cof_study_materials.shtml or Call (718) 999-1988 for additional information and forms.

4.The study materials are also available at the front desk before taking any Certificate of Fitness test. However, you can only read the study material BEFORE you take the test. Once you start your test, you will NOT be allowed to use the study material.

5.All Certificate of Fitness tests are being issued conditionally upon clearance of any delinquency status regarding Child Care obligations by the NYC Administration for Children’s Services. If you have a delinquent child support obligation, you must visit New York City Office of Child Support Enforcement at 151 West Broadway, 4th floor, New York to resolve the problem before applying any Certificate of Fitness test.

PLEASE READ AND SIGN AT THE BOTTOM THAT YOU UNDERSTAND THE FOLLOWING:

Test Security and Fairness Policies

We reserve the right to withhold or cancel scores at any time in the event that these Test Security and Fairness policies are not complied with. Individuals suspected of engaging in criminal activities will be reported to law enforcement agencies.

Prohibited devices: All electronic or communication equipment (cell phones, smart phones, digital cameras, Bluetooth-enabled devices, MP3 players, email/messaging devices, etc.) must be TURNED OFF and PUT IT AWAY before taking any Certificate of Fitness test. Any applicants observed with any of these devices during testing will be automatically failed the test, and the device may be confiscated.

Misconduct: If you engage in misconduct in connection with any Certificate of Fitness test, you will be automatically failed your test. Misconduct includes:

1.Attempting to take the exam for someone else.

2.Offering a bribe to any NYC employee.

3.Using of cell phones and certain other electronic devices in the exam room.

4.Looking at other examinee's Exam Screens.

5.Looking at any unauthorized material, including, but not limited to, study materials, electronic devices or any other resource during the Examination.

6.Attempting to remove from the exam room any part of the exam or any notes related to the exam.

7.Attempting to give or receive assistance, or otherwise communicate, through any means, with another person about the exam during the exam administration.

8.Sharing any exam questions through any means, including, but not limited to, email, text messages, a camera phone and the internet.

9.Leaving the testing room without permission. Once you have started your test, you will not be allowed to leave the testing room for any reason (Ex: bathroom, phone calls, money for parking at a meter… etc.) If you must leave the room, your test will be changed and you will have to start your test over.

10.Creating a disturbance.

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Detail
Notarization Requirement The Self Employed Letter must be notarized to be valid.
Ownership Declaration The letter includes a declaration that the person is the owner of the specified business.
Experience Disclosure Applicants must disclose their years or months of relevant experience.
Character Assurance The applicant must state they are of good character and physically able to perform required duties.
Certificate of Fitness The letter is linked to the application for a specific Certificate of Fitness.
Test Passing Requirement A minimum passing score of 70% is necessary to obtain a Certificate of Fitness.
Electronic Device Policy All electronic devices must be turned off and put away prior to testing.
Governing Law This process is governed under New York City regulations for the Bureau of Fire Prevention.

Guidelines on Utilizing Self Employed Letter

To move forward with your application, complete the Self Employed Letter form. The following steps provide guidance on how to fill it out correctly. A notarized signature is required once the form is completed.

  1. Begin by entering the name of your firm or company in the blank space provided at the top of the form.
  2. Next, fill in your business address in the designated area below the company name.
  3. Write the date on the form in the space marked "Date." Be sure to use the correct format.
  4. Address the letter to "Dear Sir/Madam" as indicated.
  5. Insert your name in the blank space next to "I am self employed. I am the owner of."
  6. List the name of your business or firm in the space provided under "located at."
  7. Specify the type of Certificate of Fitness you are applying for in the appropriate section.
  8. Indicate your years or months of experience relative to the Certificate in the blank space provided.
  9. State that you consider yourself to be of "GOOD CHARACTER" and "PHYSICALLY ABLE" to perform the required duties.
  10. Print your name at the bottom of the form where it says "Printed name of owner."
  11. Sign the form in the designated area labeled "Signature of owner."
  12. Leave space for the notary to sign and to print their name. The notary will also apply their seal and provide their commission expiration date.

Once completed, the form will need to be taken to a notary public for verification and signature. Ensure all information is accurate before proceeding to this step.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the Self Employed Letter form?

The Self Employed Letter form is a notarized document that self-employed individuals must submit when applying for a Certificate of Fitness from the New York City Fire Department. It verifies the applicant's identity, business details, and experience relevant to the requested certificate.

Why is notarization necessary for this form?

Notarization serves to authenticate the identity of the signer and to confirm that the document is legitimate. This process adds a layer of security and trust, ensuring that the information provided is accurate and that the person submitting the form is who they claim to be.

What information is required from the applicant?

Applicants need to provide their name, the name of their business, business address, years or months of experience related to the certificate, and their declaration of good character and physical ability. Additionally, a notary must sign and stamp the document.

How do I found out more about the Certificate of Fitness?

To obtain additional information, visit the Fire Department's official website or call the designated phone number. Numerous resources, including study materials and examination details, are available online and off-line.

What happens if I have delinquent child support obligations?

If you have outstanding child support obligations, you must resolve these issues with the New York City Office of Child Support Enforcement before applying for any Certificate of Fitness. Your application may be denied if you do not address this delinquency.

What are the consequences of misconduct during testing?

Engaging in misconduct during a Certificate of Fitness test can result in automatic failure. Misconduct includes cheating, using unauthorized materials, or communicating with other examinees. Violations will be reported to law enforcement authorities.

Can I use study materials during the test?

No, once you begin the test, you cannot use any study materials. It is important to review all necessary materials beforehand, as the opportunity to refer to them will not be available during the actual exam.

What are the basic requirements to qualify for the Certificate of Fitness?

Applicants must demonstrate good character and be physically capable of performing the duties relevant to the certificate for which they are applying. Experience in the relevant field is also a key requirement.

What should I do if I need to leave the testing room?

If you need to leave the testing room once your exam has started, you will have to start the test over from the beginning. It is crucial to remain in the exam room unless you have obtained explicit permission to leave.

How do I ensure I pass the Certificate of Fitness test?

To pass the test, study hard using the available materials and practice for the exam format. Aim for a score of at least 70%. Familiarizing yourself with the testing rules will also help you avoid any mistakes that could lead to disqualification.

Common mistakes

When completing the Self Employed Letter form, people often make mistakes that can lead to delays or even rejection. One common error is failing to provide the correct business name. The name should match the official documentation of the business. If there is any discrepancy, it could create confusion and questions about the legitimacy of the application.

Another frequent mistake involves the business address. Omitting details such as the suite number or incorrect zip code can result in issues. Ensuring that all elements of the address are complete and accurate is essential to avoid processing delays.

Many individuals overlook the date on the form. Leaving the date blank or entering an incorrect date can complicate the application process. It is crucial to fill this in correctly to maintain the timeline of the application and demonstrate adherence to legal requirements.

The experience section often poses challenges as well. Applicants may claim years of experience without providing the specific duration. It is important to clearly state the amount of experience relevant to the Certificate of Fitness. Vague or ambiguous answers can raise concerns about qualifications.

Some people misinterpret the section related to character and physical ability. Instead of stating, "I consider myself of GOOD CHARACTER," some applicants incorrectly write it as "I consider myself is of GOOD CHARACTER." Such grammar issues can lead to miscommunication and confusion. Clarity and correctness in language are vital.

Another mistake involves notarization. Some individuals submit the form without the necessary notarization, which is explicitly required. Failing to have the document notarized invalidates the application, so this step cannot be overlooked.

In addition, the printed name and signature sections often lead to complications. Applicants sometimes forget to print their name or include other required signatures. Each part of the form must be completed accurately to avoid any disruptions in processing.

Not paying attention to the instructions regarding test security can result in serious consequences. Applicants who do not turn off their electronic devices or engage in misconduct may be automatically failed. Awareness of these policies and compliance is crucial.

Some fail to realize the importance of contacting the NYC Office of Child Support Enforcement if there are any child support delinquencies. Ignoring this requirement can bar individuals from proceeding with their application.

Lastly, people often do not review the entire document before submission. Proofreading could catch errors that might otherwise go unnoticed. It is always wise to double-check all information before sending the form to ensure its completeness and accuracy.

Documents used along the form

The Self Employed Letter form is a crucial document needed for individuals to affirm their self-employment status while applying for a Certificate of Fitness. However, it is often accompanied by additional forms and documents to ensure a smooth application process. Below is a list of commonly used forms that may be relevant along with the Self Employed Letter to enhance your application. Understanding these documents can aid in preparing the necessary submissions effectively.

  • Certificate of Fitness Application: This is the official form that candidates must complete to apply for the Certificate of Fitness. It includes personal details, business information, and the specific type of Certificate for which they are applying.
  • Notary Public Acknowledgment: This document confirms that the Self Employed Letter has been properly notarized. It serves as an assurance that each signature is authentic and that the signers have verified their identity in front of a notary.
  • Proof of Identity: Applicants need to provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. This verifies the individual’s identity and ensures that the information on the forms is consistent and trustworthy.
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae: A detailed account of work history and professional experience can support the application. This document highlights skills and qualifications relevant to the duties associated with the Certificate of Fitness.
  • Tax Returns: Past tax returns can be requested to further prove self-employment status and financial stability. These documents typically show income and business operations, providing a comprehensive view of the applicant's economic activities.
  • Business License or Registration: A copy of any business licenses or registrations that the applicant holds may be necessary. This shows that the business is legally operating under the current laws and regulations of the state or locality.
  • Insurance Policy Documents: Proof of liability or workers' compensation insurance may be required based on the type of work being performed. This demonstrates that the applicant carries the necessary protections in case of accidents or damages.
  • References: Providing professional references may be beneficial, especially if they can attest to the applicant's experience and character in the related field. These typically include contact information for individuals who can endorse the applicant's skills.
  • Court or Criminal Records: If applicable, individuals might need to disclose any previous legal issues or criminal records that could impact their ability to hold a Certificate of Fitness. This ensures transparency and compliance with any legal requirements.

Completing the Self Employed Letter and gathering these related documents can profoundly impact the application’s success. Being organized and thorough will facilitate a smoother process, ultimately enhancing eligibility for the Certificate of Fitness.

Similar forms

  • Affidavit of Self-Employment: This document serves as a sworn statement affirming that an individual is self-employed. Similar to the Self Employed Letter, it provides the name and nature of the business but is often witnessed by a legal authority to ensure its authenticity.
  • Business License Application: Like the Self Employed Letter, this form requires information about the business owner and the type of business. Both documents are essential for confirming the legitimacy of a self-employed individual when applying for various permits or licenses.
  • Verification of Employment Letter: This letter verifies an individual's employment status, much like the Self Employed Letter confirms that someone is self-employed. It typically includes information about job title, responsibilities, and duration of employment.
  • IRS Form 1040 (Schedule C): This form reports income or loss from a business operated or a profession practiced as a sole proprietor. It parallels the Self Employed Letter by providing evidence of self-employment and financial details related to the individual's business operations.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Self Employed Letter form, there are several important guidelines to follow. Below is a list of actions you should and should not take during this process.

  • Do ensure that all information is clearly written and accurate.
  • Do have the form notarized before submitting it to the Fire Department.
  • Do provide a detailed account of your experience relevant to the type of Certificate of Fitness you are applying for.
  • Do sign the form in the presence of a notary to validate your application.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
  • Do not leave any sections of the form blank or incomplete.
  • Do not forget to include your business address and details about your business.
  • Do not submit the form without ensuring it is notarized.
  • Do not provide misleading or false information on the form.
  • Do not take any electronic devices into the notary's office; they may be prohibited.

Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions regarding the Self Employed Letter form that can lead to confusion for applicants. Below are four common misconceptions, along with clarifications for each.

  • Misconception 1: The Self Employed Letter does not require notarization.
  • In fact, the letter must be notarized to be considered valid. This requirement ensures that the information provided is authentic and has been verified by a notary public.

  • Misconception 2: Experience details are optional in the letter.
  • This is incorrect. Applicants must include specific information regarding their years of experience related to the Certificate of Fitness. Omitting this information could jeopardize the application.

  • Misconception 3: The letter format is not particularly important as long as all information is provided.
  • The structured format of the letter is crucial. Deviating from the prescribed format may lead to delays or even rejection of the application. Adherence to the format facilitates the review process by authorities.

  • Misconception 4: Anyone can fill out the Self Employed Letter on behalf of the applicant.
  • This is a common misunderstanding. The form must be completed and signed by the owner of the business. Personal involvement protects the integrity of the application and assures that the information is accurate.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the Self Employed Letter form, keep these key points in mind:

  • The letter must be notarized to be considered valid.
  • Provide your full name and business name accurately to avoid confusion.
  • Clearly state the type of Certificate of Fitness you are applying for.
  • Ensure that you list your relevant experience in terms of years and months.
  • Highlight your good character and physical ability by signing the required section.
  • Be mindful of the test requirements and maintain the integrity of the testing environment.