If your team works shifts, hours drive almost every benefits decision. Start by knowing them well.
Who counts as full-time
For the federal health coverage rules, a full-time employee averages at least 30 hours of service a week, or 130 hours a month. Part-time hours still count toward your size. See do I have to offer health insurance.
How long new hires can wait
A group health plan cannot make anyone wait more than 90 days for coverage. If people come and go quickly, a shorter wait means more of them are covered while they work for you.
Options for mixed teams
- A group plan for full-time staff, with part-time staff included if the plan allows it.
- A CHOICE Arrangement, which can be offered to certain classes of employees, such as full-time, part-time or seasonal workers.
- Paid sick leave. Some states require it for part-time staff too, such as Washington.
Keep good records
Track hours every pay period. Schedules change, and averages over months are what the rules use.
Questions to bring to your advisor
- Which of our people are full-time under the federal rule?
- What waiting period makes sense for us?
- Can we offer part-time staff something without a full group plan?
