Volunteering
Volunteering or volunteer work is defined by the U.S. government’s Department of Labor. In general, volunteering is something that requires no special skills, education, experience, or training. Working without receiving pay is not volunteering.
“Volunteering” that is considered illegal includes:
- Helping out at a family’s or friend’s business
- Watching or taking care of kids for your family or host family
When volunteering, most people should be able to do the tasks that are required of the volunteer position. Additionally, volunteer positions should not replace paid positions or result in an economic benefit for the organization or company that you are volunteering for. Review and download a copy of the FLSA Fact Sheet #14A: Non-Profit Organizations and the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) for your records.
Any unpaid internship should be authorized under Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and follow the FSLA Fact Sheet: #71 Internship Programs Under The Fair Labor Standards Act.