How to total a time card
For each day, subtract the start time from the end time and subtract unpaid breaks. Shifts that end after midnight are handled automatically. Add the days for the weekly total.
Converting minutes to decimal hours
| Minutes | Decimal hours |
|---|---|
| 15 | 0.25 |
| 20 | 0.33 |
| 30 | 0.50 |
| 45 | 0.75 |
Payroll often uses decimal hours. 7 hours 45 minutes is 7.75 hours.
Frequently asked questions
When does overtime apply?
Under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act, non-exempt employees earn at least 1.5 times their regular rate for hours over 40 in a workweek. State laws can add more protections.
Are lunch breaks paid?
Bona fide meal breaks of about 30 minutes or more are generally unpaid. Short rest breaks are usually counted as paid work time.