Employment Rights for Temporary Workers

Temporary workers may be eligible for benefits worker's compensation and unemployment.

Temporary workers provide staff for businesses that are in need of additional help during seasonal rushes or when permanent workers are on leave. Despite their interim status, temporary employees have extensive employment rights and may be eligible for certain benefits.

Wages

All temporary workers must be paid at least the state minimum wage, receive overtime pay when necessary and receive their wages on a regular basis. Temporary workers are also eligible for workers compensation and unemployment insurance.

Benefits

According to federal law, temporary employees who work more than 1,000 hours in a 12 month period become eligible for retirement plans that the employer is utilizing. Temporary workers may also qualify for health insurance coverage, depending on the amount of hours they have worked, and what kind of medical plan the employer has in place.

Legal Rights

Temporary workers have the same legal rights as permanent workers, and are protected by law from discrimination based on sex, religion, age, color, national origin, race or disability. The employment agency and the employer share responsibility in ensuring that temporary workers are not discriminated against.

References

• Legal Assistance Resource Center of Connecticut: Questions & Answers for Temporary Workers
• PayScale for Employers: Temporary Employee Laws
• Equal Rights Advocates: Temporary Employees Know Your Rights

Resources

• National Labor Relations Board: National Labor Relations Act