by Beverly Aarons
7. May 2009 08:04
With full-time work harder to find and job searches lasting a little longer than expected, many job candidates are considering part-time work as a short-term or in some cases a long-term solution. But before you take the part-time plunge there are a few things you should consider.
1. Most part-time positions are paid less compared to their full-time counterparts.
2. Most companies do not offer benefits to their part-time workers. Only about 17 % of part-time workers receive health insurance benefits and only 21% of part-time workers are included in their employer's retirement plan.
3. Despite having more time for family life or personal pursuits, part-time workers usually receive no paid vacation or sick leave and are often not eligible for leave under the Family Medical Leave Act. The Family Medical Leave Act requires that an employee work at least 25 hours a week for a year to be eligible.
4. If you're working part-time you may not be eligible for unemployment insurance. Only about 25 states unemployment insurance programs cover part-time employees.