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The Global Insight

Do per diem employees get retirement?

Author

James Williams

Updated on March 20, 2026

Full-time employees usually are eligible for the most benefits, such as health insurance, a retirement plan, and paid holidays. No benefits are provided to per-diem employees unless required by a contract of employment or by law.

Is per diem considered part-time?

While per diem employment typically is part-time, it differs from most part-time arrangements. But per diem employees typically earn a higher hourly rate, reflecting their ability to fill shifts on short notice. Benefits of Per Diem Employment. Flexibility.

Is a per diem job worth it?

Since they don’t work full time, per-diem employees don’t often receive benefits, like healthcare, retirement plans or paid time off. A per-diem job is a great way to earn an income without committing to a job for a long period of time.

What types of jobs pay per diem?

Per diem jobs are short-term positions which are paid by the day. The most common per diem job opportunities are in the medical field, including positions in nursing, hospice, pediatrics, and midwifery. Phlebotomists, operating (OR) assistants, and pharmacists may also work on a per diem basis.

How many hours can you work per diem?

As a result, there is no limit on how many hours a per diem employee can work. The time they put in will depend on the needs of the specific healthcare facility that week. Generally speaking, per diem employees won’t work as much as full-time employees.

Is per diem better than full-time?

Benefits of Per Diem Work Per diem work pays a lot better than full-time or part-time work because the pay is used as an incentive to fill staff-to-patient ratios that aren’t being met, and the shifts may need to be filled at the last minute. You can work in a variety of settings, such as the following: Hospitals.

Is per diem reported on W2?

Per diem paid under a nonaccountable plan is reported as income on line 1 of the employee’s W-2.

Why do hospitals hire per diem?

Per Diem Nursing Offers Unmatched Flexibility The clinician you are covering for could be out sick or on vacation, and for whatever reason, the facility will need to rely on per diem nurse staffing to cover the gap. This is often a last-minute need, so pay can be at a premium, especially around holidays.

Can a per diem employee work full time?

You are never guaranteed hours a per diem employee unlike full-time and part-time employees. However, you might work just as much as a full-time employee. You are typically used as a substitute for vacations, sick days, and any other reason a facility might be short-staffed.

What does it mean to be a per diem nurse?

Per diem: Per diem means “as needed.” In a per diem role you are not guaranteed hours, usually work less than full time and sometimes do not receive benefits. Per diem status might be noted as a 0.1 FTE.

What’s the difference between Soliant and a per diem employee?

The major difference is that per diem employees are not entitled to benefits from the healthcare facility. However, you are oftentimes paid at a premium rate. When you work as a per diem employee with Soliant you are eligible for a wide range of benefits such as insurance, housing assistance, and much more.

How can I find out my per diem rate?

There are generally two ways to confirm the per diem rate for your area. You can check with your employer, or you can use the GSA’s per diem rate finder. The tool allows you to search by city, state or zip code.