Over the past year or so, we have discussed the Fair Labor Standards Act’s application to both paid interns and unpaid interns, as well as independent contractors. One area we have covered briefly in the past, but not explored in depth, is the issue of volunteers. If you have been reading along, you know by now that if an individual is an employee (as opposed to a properly classified unpaid intern or independent contractor, for example), he or she cannot waive the protections of the FLSA. In other words, unless the employee is subject to an exemption, an employer must pay the employee at least the minimum wage for all hours worked, plus an overtime premium for all hours worked over forty in a week. State laws, too, provide similar requirements. But what about volunteers? Many nonprofit organizations, public agencies, schools, churches, and other similar entities would cease to exist, or at least be severely crippled, if not for the contributions and involvement of volunteers. Can an individual volunteer their services? The answer might surprise you.
Home > Federal Law Articles > FLSA > Employees Covered (FLSA) > Is Your Volunteer Really an Employee? The Answer Might Surprise You [Part 1]