When will a new hire be eligible for benefits?

Waiting periods define the time a benefit-eligible employee must work for a company before they are eligible to participate in benefit plans.

Waiting periods will vary from company to company, but a few of the most common waiting periods are:

• First of the month following the date of hire

• 1st of the month following 30 days of employment

• 1st of the month following 60 days of employment

Employers usually define waiting periods with benefit carriers when they establish benefits. Employers can amend waiting periods at renewal, but they typically stay the same. 

An employer should consider employee retention and new hire probation periods when selecting a waiting period. Many employers use benefits to attract top talent. This will play a big role in the waiting period. In a competitive industry, a shorter waiting period may attract top talent better.