Vacation Pay for Part-Time Employees in Alberta: Your Rights Explained

Do Part-Time Employees Get Vacation Pay in Alberta?

Yes — part-time employees in Alberta are entitled to vacation pay.

It doesn’t matter how many hours you work. If you’re an employee, you are legally entitled to vacation pay under Alberta’s Employment Standards Code (ESC).

How Much Vacation Pay Do Part-Time Employees Get?

Vacation pay is based on your total earnings — not your schedule.

Standard Vacation Pay Rates:

• 4% of wages if employed less than 5 years
• 6% of wages if employed 5 years or more

This applies to:

• Part-time employees
• Casual workers
• Temporary staff

How Is Vacation Pay Calculated For Part-Time Employees?

The calculation is the same as for full-time workers.

Simple Formula:

• Total wages × vacation pay rate (4% or 6%)

Example:

• Total earnings: $20,000
• Rate: 4%
• Vacation pay = $800

Do Part-Time Employees Get Vacation Time Too?

Yes — part-time employees are also entitled to vacation time.

However, vacation time is based on:

• Length of employment
• Employer policies

How Is Vacation Pay Paid to Part-Time Employees?

Employers can pay vacation pay in different ways:

• Added to each paycheque
• Paid before vacation
• Paid during or after time off

Many part-time employees receive vacation pay on every paycheque.

What If You Work Irregular or Changing Hours?

If your hours vary:

• Vacation pay is still calculated based on your total earnings
• Your schedule does not affect your entitlement

What Happens If You Leave Your Part-Time Job?

If you quit or are let go:

• Your employer must pay out any earned but unused vacation pay

This applies regardless of:

• Hours worked
• Length of employment

Common Issues Part-Time Employees Face

Part-time workers are more likely to experience:

• Not receiving vacation pay at all
• Incorrect calculations
• Confusion about entitlement

If your employer says you’re not entitled because you’re part-time — that’s incorrect.

FAQ: Part-Time Vacation Pay in Alberta

Do part-time employees get 4% vacation pay?

Yes — at minimum, part-time employees are entitled to 4% of wages.

Can vacation pay be included in each paycheque?

Yes — this is very common for part-time roles.

Do part-time employees get vacation time?

Yes — they are entitled to both vacation pay and vacation time.

What if I’m classified as a contractor?

True independent contractors are not entitled to vacation pay — but many workers are misclassified.

Think You’re Not Getting the Vacation Pay You Deserve?

If you’re working part-time and not receiving proper vacation pay, your employer may be violating Alberta law.

Even small underpayments can add up over time.

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, our employment lawyers in Alberta can review your situation and explain your options.