Compensation
The SACC-USA Trainee Program does not provide insurance and therefore the trainee will have to acquire appropriate coverage. The required health and accident insurance is normally paid by the trainee (but can be paid by the host company). Airfare, housing and living expenses are normally paid by the trainee. Should the trainee fail to submit a Check-in Form to SACC-USA in a timely manner upon arrival in the U.S., a $367 Reinstatement Fee will be payable to the U.S. Department of State.
A Trainee Program Participant is allowed to receive compensation/stipend under a J-1 visa. Most positions in the SACC-USA Trainee Program pay a stipend to cover living expenses. Some pay more. Others such as summer internships may be unpaid. Positions with SACC Regional Chambers are usually unpaid. Unpaid positions may be best suitable for students who are required to do an international internship as part of their academic course work and thus can get a student loan. Interns/trainees pay federal, state and local tax on the stipend. There is no Social Security or Medicare tax (unless the trainee has lived in the U.S. previously, see the Tax Manual for details).