Capterra Glossary
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
An employee assistance program (EAP) is a benefit program that helps employees personally and professionally. An EAP provides confidential help with various issues, such as substance abuse, emotional distress caused by major life events, occupational stress, financial and healthcare concerns, and personal relationship issues, among other concerns. However, most now cover a broad range of issues such as child care, elder care, relationship challenges, legal problems, and mental wellness matters.
What Small and Midsize Businesses Need to Know About Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
An employee assistance program (EAP) may offer a wide range of services, such as information available through nurse advice lines, basic legal assistance, or adoption assistance. These services are usually available not only to the employee but also to the employee's spouse, children, and non-marital partner living in the same household as the employee. Some EAPs may provide medical services, such as direct counseling and treatment. These services are regulated by employment practices' laws, such as the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) and state laws.