Are Interns Employees?

If a would-be intern or trainee is actually an employee by another name, an employment relationship exists, and the intern or trainee is entitled to all the benefits and protections of federal law. These include the rights to minimum wage, overtime, and a discrimination-free workplace.

13 minute read May 26, 2010 at 08:23 AM
By
Matthew Nelson
Are Interns Employees?

Employers cannot avoid the requirements of federal law by simply labeling employees as “interns” or “trainees.” As a general rule, those engaged in legitimate internships or training programs are not covered by federal employment law.

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