How many hours is considered full-time?

Many employers define full-time as 35 to 40 hours per week. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) counts anyone who works at least 30 hours per week as a full-time worker.

How many hours is considered part-time?

Definitions vary by employer, but most count part-time as fewer than 35-40 hours per week.

Can employers define part-time vs. full-time themselves?

Yes, but state laws and federal requirements still apply.

Do part-time employees get benefits?

Many part-time employees receive benefits, but this depends on employer policy, applicable law, and the number of hours worked.

Is it cheaper to hire part-time or full-time employees?

It is not always cheaper to hire part-time employees. Part-time roles may reduce cost per employee, but higher turnover and scheduling complexity can increase total costs.

What’s the best mix of part-time and full-time employees?

The best mix of part-time and full-time employees depends on a business's demand patterns, coverage needs, labour budget, and retention goals. Many businesses benefit from a core staff of full-time employees supported by flexible part-time staff.

VP, Product Marketing

Strategy

May 21, 2026 by Malysa O’Connor

Part-Time vs. Full-Time Employees: Key Differences, Scheduling, and Workforce Strategy

Understand the difference between part-time and full-time employees, and how it impacts scheduling, labour costs, and workforce performance.

Operations, Technology

March 5, 2026 by Malysa O’Connor

Frontline Workforce Engagement Strategies That Actually Work

Redefine employee experience for 2026. See how modern workforce engagement strategies drive flexibility, satisfaction, and retention.

Operations

January 15, 2026 by Malysa O’Connor

Employee Shift Scheduling Best Practices

Explore Legion’s employee shift scheduling best practices, from fairness and compliance to automation.

Strategy, Technology

January 7, 2026 by Malysa O’Connor

WFM Software Comparison: Features That Matter

Comparing WFM software? Focus on features that drive ROI. See why Legion’s intelligent automation outperforms legacy tools in efficiency and engagement.

Technology

December 30, 2025 by Malysa O’Connor

What to Look for in an Employee-First WFM Platform

Discover what to look for in an employee-first WFM platform and how usability, mobile access, and engagement features drive retention and performance.

Technology

December 11, 2025 by Malysa O’Connor

Maximise Your Tech Stack with Workforce Management Integrations

Learn which integrations matter most in workforce management software and how connected systems improve accuracy, efficiency, and scale.

Industry Trends

November 18, 2025 by Malysa O’Connor

Earned Wage Access: The Key to Financial Freedom

Discover how Earned Wage Access empowers employees, boosts retention, and transforms the financial wellness landscape for businesses.

NRF

November 12, 2025 by Malysa O’Connor

The Future of Retail Is at NRF 2026

Join Legion at NRF 2026: Retail’s Big Show in NYC. Discover “The Next Now” in AI, automation, and workforce innovation. Book a meeting or visit our booth!

Industry Trends

October 22, 2025 by Malysa O’Connor

Retail Labour Optimisation: Cut Costs, Not Service

Discover how workforce management software for retail reduces payroll waste, prevents understaffing, and boosts customer satisfaction.

Industries

Use Cases