Cuyahoga County, Ohio: Unpaid Interns May be Eligible for Worker's Compensation Cuyahoga County, located in the state of Ohio, recognizes the rights of unpaid interns to potentially be eligible for worker's compensation benefits. This acknowledgement ensures that interns who sustain work-related injuries or illnesses during their internships have a potential avenue for financial relief and medical assistance. Worker's compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer workplace injuries or occupational illnesses. Traditionally, it has covered employees who receive wages or salaries for their work. However, Cuyahoga County extends this protection to unpaid interns as well, offering them similar benefits in case of work-related accidents. The policy applies to various types of unpaid interns, including but not limited to: 1. Educational Interns: Individuals engaged in internships as part of their educational curriculum, aiming to gain practical experience and apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. These interns often work without remuneration and are covered by the worker's compensation policy if they meet the eligibility criteria. 2. Voluntary Interns: Individuals who choose to participate in unpaid internships to explore career paths, gain industry exposure, and enhance their professional skills. Even though they do not receive monetary compensation for their work, voluntary interns may still qualify for worker's compensation under Cuyahoga County's guidelines. 3. Non-profit Organization Interns: Interns who contribute their services to non-profit organizations in various sectors, such as healthcare, social services, or community development. Although they may not receive financial incentives, these interns are protected by the worker's compensation policy if the necessary conditions are fulfilled. 4. Government Interns: Interns participating in unpaid programs within government agencies at the municipal, county, or state level. These interns, working for various departments or offices, are potentially eligible for worker's compensation if they meet the specific criteria set forth by Cuyahoga County. To qualify for worker's compensation benefits, unpaid interns must demonstrate that their injuries or illnesses arose during the course and scope of their internships. They should promptly report the incident to their employer, ensuring that all necessary documentation is completed accurately and comprehensively. Medical evaluations are often required to establish a direct link between the injury or illness and the intern's workplace activities. Cuyahoga County's inclusion of unpaid interns in its worker's compensation program reflects its commitment to ensuring fair and just treatment for all workers, regardless of their employment status. By extending these benefits, the county aims to provide a safety net that recognizes the potential risks faced by interns and helps protect their well-being while contributing to the growth and vitality of local industries and organizations.
Para su conveniencia, debajo del texto en español le brindamos la versión completa de este formulario en inglés. For your convenience, the complete English version of this form is attached below the Spanish version.