Starbucks baristas reel from surges in health insurance costs: ‘I’m considering a second job’

Several workers say they’re opting to go without health coverage due to premium costs soaring this year

Starbucks workers say their health insurance premiums have soared this year, in some cases more than doubling, according to a recent survey conducted by Starbucks Workers United.

The survey of more than 130 Starbucks workers in both unionized and non-unionized stores, shared exclusively with the Guardian, found baristas are experiencing significant hikes in costs for their health insurance coverage starting 1 October.

Some workers reported their premium costs per paycheck nearly doubling, even as they struggle to afford other basic necessities andare scheduled to work enough hours to be eligible for the benefits.

The changes come as Starbucks Workers United launched a boycott last month against the company demanding a union contract, what would be the first since stores started to unionize in December 2021. Since then, more than 700 Starbucks stores have won union elections, with the union representing over 12,000 workers at the company.