Does volunteer work count as employment?

[RKX1101 17]

Hello again!

I am applying for naturalization but I am stuck on the employment questions.

As I mentioned in my earlier post, I am unemployed for a long time but I did some volunteer work for an organization caring for cats.

Two questions, does this count as an employment although I didn't get paid? Also in form N400 part 11, item #9 where it ask have you been a member of, involved in, or associated with any organization, assosication or similar group? Should I mention my organization here? The name of the organization is purrfect pals, a cat shelter.

I would appreciate any help I can get.

[JimmyHou 610]

Hello again!

I am applying for naturalization but I am stuck on the employment questions.

As I mentioned in my earlier post, I am unemployed for a long time but I did some volunteer work for an organization caring for cats.

Two questions, does this count as an employment although I didn't get paid? Also in form N400 part 11, item #9 where it ask have you been a member of, involved in, or associated with any organization, assosication or similar group? Should I mention my organization here? The name of the organization is purrfect pals, a cat shelter.

I would appreciate any help I can get.

Normally, I would count volunteer work as work, but for the purposes of the N400 application, I don't think it counts as employment... if they do a employment check as part of your background check, they won't find your name as an employee of the organization. So if I were you, I would not include it.

I think you should definitely list it as part of the organization/association question further down.

And good for you for volunteering your time for a good cause!

[RKX1101 17]

Thank you so much Jimmyhou, I really appreciate your help. You also helped me on my previous question.

Thanks a lot

[novedsac 355]

Agree, volunteer work is work but not considered employment.

Same with housework, homework, dental work, yard work, etc. - none of which are employment unless you're getting paid for it (preferably with a W2 or 1099).

Bartering services in exchange for other services - which should also be accompanied by a 1099-B - may classify the exchange as employment (but not necessarily so).

Volunteering without any renumeration other than a free lunch and/or transportation shouldn't be an issue whatsoever.