Health Insurance for Interns: Know Your Legal Rights

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Health insurance for interns

Many students and job seekers wonder: do interns get healthcare benefits from employers? This question is especially relevant today, as internship roles increasingly resemble full-time positions.

Understanding Healthcare Coverage for Interns

Most interns don’t consider healthcare benefits when starting a position. However, under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), employers with 50 or more full-time equivalent (FTE) employees must offer health insurance. This includes workers averaging over 30 hours per week.

Employers calculate FTEs by combining the number of full-time employees with part-time hours, then dividing by 30. If the number exceeds 50, they must comply with ACA rules or pay a monthly penalty.

What Counts as Full-Time?

To qualify as full-time under the ACA, an intern must work over 30 hours per week for at least 120 days. These days don’t have to be consecutive but must fall within a 360-day period.

If the internship meets this standard and is paid, employers may need to provide healthcare benefits. The rules do not apply to unpaid internships or independent contractors.

Exceptions and Special Cases

Unpaid interns are not covered under the Fair Labor Standards Act as full-time employees. However, some paid interns, especially those hired seasonally, might be exempt if their role is under six months.

Students covered under a parent’s insurance plan (up to age 26) may not require employer coverage. Still, if the student is working in another state, Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) restrictions could limit access to care. In-network requirements might force the intern to return home for treatment.

Know Your Rights as an Intern

If you’re working a paid internship averaging 30 hours per week for at least 120 days, check whether you qualify for employer-sponsored healthcare benefits. Ask HR directly about eligibility to avoid surprises later.y

Conclusion

Healthcare benefits for interns depend on several factors: your work hours, duration, pay status, and your employer’s size. Paid interns working full-time hours may be entitled to coverage under the ACA. If you’re uncertain, speak up and ask your employer. Understanding your rights helps you plan better for both your health and career.

Author

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