Interns & Workers’ Comp: What You Need to Know

Summertime is just about here and many college students are opting for internships rather than join the traditional summer workforce. Internships are a great way for students to gain valuable work experience in their field of choice and start building their resume. Likewise, interns are a valuable resource to not only lighten the work-load of full-time employees, but to groom potential future hires, as well.
Workers Comp and Interns
Just because many internships are unpaid, does not mean you can ignore legal requirements associated with hiring a new employee. A lack of monetary compensation does not mean an intern is not being compensated. Usually, the experience gained is of great value and legally considered compensation. Generally, when any form of manual labor is required, employers are required to provide workers comp insurance to interns.
Exceptions for Workers Comp & Interns
Although both paid and unpaid interns are usually required by law to be covered by workers comp insurance, student interns providing non-manual services to a religious, charitable or educational institution, that are covered under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code, are exempt from mandatory coverage. They can, however, choose to supply coverage voluntarily.
To find out more about workers comp laws and coverage in your area, please contact us at:
 
Kelly J. Swanger, CISR
Commercial Division Operations Manager
2237 Lancaster Pike
Shillington, PA 19607
Ph. 610-898-6519
Fx. 610-777-9957
kswanger@galleninsurance.com