Paycheck & Overtime Calculator
Overtime Pay: Know Your Rights & Maximize Earnings
What Counts as Overtime?
In most U.S. states, overtime applies when you work:
- More than 40 hours in a workweek (federal law)
- More than 8 hours in a day (some states like California)
- 7th consecutive day of work (some states)
Current Overtime Rules (2024)
| State | Overtime Rules |
|---|---|
| Federal (FLSA) | 1.5x after 40 hours/week |
| California | 1.5x after 8 hours/day or 40 hours/week |
| Colorado | 1.5x after 12 hours/day or 40 hours/week |
3 Smart Ways to Benefit from Overtime
- Calculate the real value - After taxes, is that extra hour worth it?
- Negotiate higher base pay - A $1/hour raise affects all hours, not just overtime
- Track your hours - Many workers are owed unpaid overtime they didn't realize
Pro Tip: For every $1/hour raise, you'll earn $2,080 more annually (at 40 hours/week). That's often better than occasional overtime!