Last updated: March 2026
How Overtime Pay Works
Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), non-exempt employees earn 1.5× their regular hourly rate for every hour worked beyond 40 in a workweek. This is commonly called "time and a half." If you earn $25/hour, your overtime rate is $37.50/hour. Some employers and states require double time (2×) for extreme hours — California mandates it after 12 hours in a single day.
This calculator lets you set your overtime threshold and rate, enter your actual work schedule, and instantly see the split between regular and overtime hours along with gross pay. Adjust the OT threshold to match your state's requirements — the federal standard is 40 hours/week, but your situation may differ.
State Overtime Rules You Should Know
California has the most employee-friendly overtime laws: 1.5× after 8 hours/day or 40 hours/week, and 2× after 12 hours/day. Working 7 consecutive days triggers 1.5× for the first 8 hours and 2× after that on day seven. Colorado requires 1.5× after 12 hours/day or 40 hours/week.
Most other states follow the federal 40-hour weekly rule. Alaska requires daily overtime after 8 hours. A few states have no overtime law at all (relying on federal law), while some exclude certain industries or employer sizes. Always check your specific state's Department of Labor website for current rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does overtime start?
Under federal law (FLSA), overtime starts after 40 hours in a workweek for non-exempt employees. Some states have stricter rules: California requires overtime after 8 hours per day, and double time after 12 hours. Alaska requires daily overtime after 8 hours. Check your state's specific laws.
How is overtime pay calculated?
Standard overtime is 1.5× your regular hourly rate ('time and a half'). If you earn $20/hour, overtime is $30/hour. Some situations require double time (2×): California requires it after 12 hours in a day or after 8 hours on the 7th consecutive workday. Union contracts may specify higher rates.
Can my employer require overtime?
Yes, in most states. Employers can generally mandate overtime as long as they pay the proper rate. Refusal can be grounds for termination. However, some states limit mandatory overtime in specific industries like healthcare. Union contracts may also restrict mandatory overtime.
Are salaried employees eligible for overtime?
It depends on exemption status, not salary vs. hourly. To be exempt, employees must earn at least $684/week ($35,568/year) AND perform specific executive, administrative, or professional duties. Salaried non-exempt employees still receive overtime. Being paid a salary alone doesn't make you exempt.
Does overtime apply to holiday or weekend work?
FLSA doesn't require extra pay for weekends, holidays, or night shifts — those premiums are a matter of employer policy or union contracts. However, those hours still count toward your 40-hour weekly total for overtime calculation purposes.
Can overtime be averaged over two weeks?
No, for most employees. Overtime must be calculated on a single workweek (7 consecutive 24-hour periods). If you work 50 hours one week and 30 the next, you're owed 10 hours of overtime for week one — they can't be averaged to 40. Hospital/nursing home employees may use a 14-day period under specific conditions.