Seasonal Workers Deserve Benefits Too: Here’s How to Make It Happen

epiainsurance
Jul 21
2 min read

Every year, California businesses rely on seasonal staff to get through the busiest times—summer, holidays, festivals, and beyond. These employees are the backbone of retail, hospitality, food service, and many other industries. But while seasonal workers step up for your business, are you stepping up for them?

The good news: offering smart, flexible benefits isn’t just for your full-timers. It’s possible (and more affordable than you think) to extend real support to your seasonal team—and doing so can set your business apart.

Why Should You Offer Benefits to Seasonal Workers?

1. Attract the Best Talent Seasonal hiring is competitive! Employees are more likely to choose—and return to—businesses that value their contributions with benefits, even if they only work part of the year.

2. Reduce Turnover & Boost Morale When seasonal workers feel appreciated and protected, they work harder and come back year after year. That saves you time, training costs, and headaches.

3. Improve Your Brand Reputation Businesses that support all employees—seasonal and permanent—are seen as caring, responsible, and forward-thinking.

4. Ensure Compliance Depending on your business size and California law, some seasonal employees may be eligible for health coverage or other mandated benefits. Reviewing your policies now can help you avoid surprises later.

What Benefits Can You Offer Seasonally?

Health Insurance: Some insurers offer plans tailored for short-term or variable hour workers. Options include limited-duration health coverage, accident insurance, or telehealth benefits.
Voluntary Benefits: Think dental, vision, disability, or supplemental life insurance. Many of these can be offered on a voluntary (employee-paid) basis, keeping costs low for employers.
Retirement Plans: Programs like CalSavers make it easy for all employees—including seasonal—to save for the future.
Wellness Perks: Provide access to mental health resources, discounted gym memberships, or financial planning sessions.