@Adam Craig You should use a 401k instead of an IRA - better benefits and you can borrow out 50% *up to $50,000 Massive Tax benefits when you do max with matching employer contributions.The problem with Accountants is they are Not Economists - which is what you need when investing. 

Ultimately you must have 2 years of employment history, whether it's W2 or self-employed.  

If you mess something up, there's no coverage for it and everybody's butt is on the line - yours and your employing broker - if they are allowing this and especially if they are taking a commission cut on it.  

Most importantly employment is on the rise.

My wife and are both employed and in a higher tax bracket.  

Has anyone employed this strategy?

EPA is federal, but I'm not sure what other certifications are required in your state, and it also depends on the job you're doing and if you are employing others (I did).  

I assume there are no employees so no Employment Taxes will need to be filed quarterly.  

Some unusual circumstances (that at least included the positives of international living) equal: a spouse who's only been finding employment overseas and a contract that ends in 2 years with no idea of what's next, no career for me, kids growing up (one in Germany, one still in high school) at the same time my dad has moved in and needs some caregiving, no retirement to speak of for DH and myself, but dad's generosity has provided us with a now-paid-off SFR via no-interest personal loan payable if at some point dad has to move out and go into assisted living.  

I asked to verify employment and he claims to get direct deposit and no pay stub.