Last updated: March 2026
How to Calculate Hours Worked
Calculating work hours manually means converting 12-hour clock times to a total for each day, subtracting unpaid breaks, then summing the week. This calculator automates the entire process: enter your times, and it instantly shows daily totals, weekly totals in both HH:MM and decimal format, overtime hours, and estimated gross pay.
The decimal hours format (e.g., 8.50 instead of 8:30) is what most payroll systems use because it makes wage calculations straightforward — multiply decimal hours by your hourly rate to get pay. Both formats are always displayed so you can cross-reference with your employer's records.
Tips for Accurate Time Tracking
Log times immediately — don't wait until the end of the week to reconstruct your schedule from memory. Even small errors compound: being off by 10 minutes per day costs you nearly an hour per week, which adds up to over 50 hours per year of unpaid work.
Track breaks separately from work time. If you're interrupted during a break (asked to answer a phone, help a customer), that break becomes paid work time. Keep notes if your breaks are frequently cut short — you may be owed compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate hours worked from clock-in and clock-out?
Subtract your clock-in time from your clock-out time, then subtract any unpaid breaks. For example: clock in at 8:00 AM, out at 4:30 PM with a 30-minute lunch = 8 hours worked. This calculator handles the math automatically, including overnight shifts.
How do I convert hours and minutes to decimal hours?
Divide the minutes by 60 and add to the hours. 8 hours 30 minutes = 8 + (30/60) = 8.50 decimal hours. 7 hours 45 minutes = 7 + (45/60) = 7.75. This calculator shows both formats so you can use whichever your payroll system requires.
Do I need to track hours worked if I'm salaried?
While salaried exempt employees aren't entitled to overtime pay, many companies still require time tracking for project management, billing, and compliance. Salaried non-exempt employees must track hours since they're still entitled to overtime pay under FLSA.
What's the maximum hours I can work in a week?
There's no federal maximum for employees aged 16+. However, overtime pay (1.5×) kicks in after 40 hours under FLSA. Some industries (trucking, healthcare) have specific hour limits for safety. Minors have strict limits: 14-15 year olds can work max 18 hours during school weeks.
Are paid breaks included in hours worked?
Short breaks (5-20 minutes) are paid and count as hours worked under FLSA. Meal periods of 30+ minutes where you're completely relieved of duties are unpaid and should be subtracted. If you must work through lunch or stay at your workstation, that time is compensable.
How accurate does time tracking need to be?
FLSA requires employers to keep accurate records. Most use 15-minute rounding (7-minute rule: round down if under 7 minutes, up if 8 or more). Some use 6-minute (1/10th hour) increments. Any rounding system must average out fairly for employees over time.