A Virtual Assistant (VA) is a highly-trained independent entrepreneur who provides a myraid of administrative support services via the Internet to meet the growing needs of entrepreneurs and small businesses worldwide...
(VANA) Virtual Assistant Networking Association
There are many benefits to hiring a virtual assistant, some of which include:
No need to hire full time employees
No need to acquire office space, equipment or supplies
No overhead costs
No overtime or downtime
No training costs
No hiring expenses such as advertising and interviewing
No need to pay for vacation time of sick days
No need to pay for employee benefits such as workers compensation, EI or health benefits
As an Independent Contractor, I pay for my own taxes and business expenses.