How weekly hours are calculated
Daily hours = (End − Start) − Unpaid break
Weekly pay = Regular hours × Rate + Overtime hours × Rate × 1.5
Weekly pay = Regular hours × Rate + Overtime hours × Rate × 1.5
Example: You work 9:00 to 17:30 with a 30-minute unpaid lunch, Monday to Friday: 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week. At $20 an hour that is $800. Add a Saturday shift from 9:00 to 14:00 (5 hours) and those 5 hours are overtime at $30, bringing the week to 45 hours and $950.
Tips for accurate timesheets
- Record times when you start and finish, not from memory at the end of the week.
- Round consistently. Many employers use 15-minute increments — check your company policy and state law.
- Keep copies of your timesheets for at least as long as your pay stubs.
Comparing an hourly job with a salary? Try the salary to hourly calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate hours worked?
For each day, subtract the start time from the end time and then subtract unpaid breaks. Add the daily totals for the week. The calculator does this automatically and shows the result in hours and minutes and as decimal hours.
How is overtime calculated?
Under the U.S. Fair Labor Standards Act, non-exempt employees must receive at least 1.5 times their regular rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Some states, such as California, also require daily overtime after 8 hours; this calculator uses the federal weekly rule.
Are breaks paid?
Under federal rules, short breaks (usually 5–20 minutes) are paid work time, while meal breaks of 30 minutes or more when you are fully relieved of duty can be unpaid. Enter only unpaid break minutes.
Can I enter an overnight shift?
Yes. If the end time is earlier than the start time, the shift is treated as ending the next day.