Beyond Full-Time: Why Part-Time and Hourly Workers Deserve Strong Benefits in California

In today’s evolving workforce, the traditional 9-to-5 is no longer the standard. Part-time and hourly employees now represent a significant portion of California’s labor market—especially in industries like retail, hospitality, healthcare, education, and small businesses.

But here’s the challenge: many of these workers aren’t receiving the same access to benefits as full-time employees. Whether due to outdated policies, budget constraints, or misconceptions, employers may be missing a valuable opportunity.

At EPIA Insurance Agency, we believe that building a resilient, motivated workforce starts with inclusive and scalable benefits strategies. And yes—that includes your part-time team.

Why Benefits for Part-Time & Hourly Workers Matter

1. Boosting Retention & Reducing Turnover Costs

Hourly workers often face higher turnover rates. Offering basic benefits—even voluntary ones—can dramatically increase loyalty and reduce the high costs of rehiring and retraining.

2. Competing for Talent in a Shifting Labor Market

Today’s employees are prioritizing flexibility and wellness. Small and mid-sized businesses that offer benefits to part-time staff stand out in crowded markets, especially when recruiting Gen Z and Millennial workers.

3. Supporting a Diverse Workforce

Part-time positions often attract caregivers, students, older adults, or second-income earners. Providing benefits helps ensure equity and support across your entire team—not just the full-timers.

What the Law Says in California

There’s no federal requirement for employers to offer benefits to part-time employees. However, in California, there are a few important guidelines:

• California law considers 30+ hours/week “full-time” for ACA compliance

• Employers with 50+ full-time equivalent employees must provide ACA-compliant healthcare

• Voluntary and supplemental benefits (like dental, vision, life, etc.) can be offered to any employee, regardless of hours worked

• Businesses offering group coverage must ensure non-discrimination across employee classifications

You can offer part-time benefits. You just need the right structure and support.

What Types of Benefits Can You Offer to Part-Time Workers?

At EPIA, we help California businesses design packages that meet both budget and compliance needs. Here’s what that could include:

✔️ Voluntary Health Insurance

Let employees opt into affordable plans, often at no cost to the employer.

✔️ Limited Medical / MEC Plans

Basic preventive care and wellness benefits that satisfy ACA minimum requirements.

✔️ Dental & Vision

Highly valued by hourly staff and easy to administer with group rates.

✔️ Life Insurance

Group life insurance is a cost-effective way to show care and build trust.

✔️ Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

Mental health, financial wellness, and crisis support—even for limited-hour teams.

✔️ Telehealth Access & Wellness Apps

Flexible, digital-first options are ideal for mobile or non-office workers.

How EPIA Builds Custom Benefit Solutions for Hourly Workforces

We know that every business is different. Whether you’re running a salon in Pasadena, a restaurant in Orange County, or a retail shop in San Jose, we help you:

• Design plans based on team size and budget

• Work with trusted carriers offering flexible group coverage

• Navigate compliance (especially with part-time classifications)

• Communicate offerings clearly to all employees (English & Traditional Chinese)

• Provide bilingual onboarding and support

  
  

Case Example: Flexible Coverage That Keeps People On Board

A 15-employee cleaning business in California was losing part-time workers every few months. After partnering with EPIA, they added a low-cost MEC plan and optional dental/vision coverage. Result?

✅ 40% reduction in turnover

✅ Employees opting in—even at their own cost

✅ Better morale + improved team retention

Final Thoughts

Your part-time employees are part of your business success. They deserve a workplace that values them beyond the hours they clock in.

Offering benefits isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a competitive advantage. With EPIA, it’s also completely possible, even on a modest budget.

📩 Ready to build smarter, more inclusive benefits for your workforce?

Let EPIA help you tailor a plan that fits your team, your industry, and your goals.

Book your free consultation today.

🌐 www.epiagroup.com | ✉️ info@epiagroup.com | 📞 +1 626-912-1988