California Overtime Calculator
Calculate California overtime pay based on hourly rate, hours worked, and state overtime rules.
How California Overtime Pay Is Calculated
California overtime rules differ from federal law in several important ways. This calculator applies California-specific overtime regulations to determine your correct overtime pay based on your hourly rate and the total hours you worked in a single workweek.
The calculation follows California's daily and weekly overtime structure:
- Daily overtime: Hours worked beyond 8 in a single day are paid at 1.5x the regular rate. Hours beyond 12 in a single day are paid at 2x the regular rate.
- Weekly overtime: Hours worked beyond 40 in a single workweek are paid at 1.5x the regular rate, regardless of daily hours.
- Seventh consecutive day: The first 8 hours worked on the seventh consecutive day in a workweek are paid at 1.5x. Hours beyond 8 on that seventh day are paid at 2x.
The calculator applies whichever overtime rate is higher when daily and weekly overtime overlap. For example, if you work 10 hours in a day and 45 hours in a week, the daily overtime (hours 9–10) and weekly overtime (hours 41–45) are both calculated, and the higher applicable rate is used.
What You Need to Use the Calculator
To get an accurate estimate, you'll need:
- Your regular hourly pay rate
- The total number of hours worked in the workweek
- The number of hours worked each day (for daily overtime calculation)
The calculator assumes a standard Monday-to-Sunday workweek. If your employer uses a different workweek definition, the results may vary.
Understanding Your Results
The output shows:
- Regular pay: Your base earnings for the first 40 hours (or non-overtime hours)
- Overtime pay: The additional earnings from overtime hours, calculated at the appropriate rate
- Total pay: Your combined regular and overtime earnings for the workweek
Results are estimates based on the information you provide. Actual pay may differ based on your employer's specific payroll practices, applicable collective bargaining agreements, or other factors.
Common Mistakes When Calculating California Overtime
- Using a single overtime rate: California requires both daily and weekly overtime calculations. Some people incorrectly apply only weekly overtime rules.
- Ignoring the seventh-day rule: Working seven consecutive days triggers additional overtime requirements that many overlook.
- Confusing workweek with pay period: Overtime is calculated per workweek, not per pay period. A biweekly pay period does not mean you can average hours across two weeks.
- Forgetting that daily overtime applies first: Daily overtime is calculated before weekly overtime, and the higher rate takes precedence.
Practical Use Cases
This calculator is useful for:
- Employees verifying their paycheck accuracy
- Employers estimating payroll costs for hourly staff
- Freelancers or contractors comparing potential earnings under different schedules
- Anyone negotiating hourly rates or overtime expectations
Limitations
This calculator does not account for:
- Bonuses, commissions, or other non-hourly compensation that may affect the regular rate of pay
- Alternative workweek schedules approved under California law
- Meal and rest break penalties
- Industry-specific exemptions or exceptions
- Local city or county overtime ordinances that may impose stricter requirements
For complex situations, consult a California employment attorney or the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does California require daily overtime?
Yes. California law requires overtime pay for hours worked beyond 8 in a single day at 1.5x the regular rate, and beyond 12 hours in a single day at 2x the regular rate. This is in addition to weekly overtime requirements.
What is the overtime rate for the seventh consecutive day?
On the seventh consecutive day of work in a workweek, the first 8 hours are paid at 1.5x the regular rate. Any hours beyond 8 on that seventh day are paid at 2x the regular rate.
Can an employer average hours across two weeks to avoid overtime?
No. Overtime is calculated per workweek, not per pay period. An employer cannot average hours across two weeks to avoid paying overtime.
Does California follow federal overtime rules?
California overtime law is generally more protective than federal law. Where both apply, the law that provides greater protection to the employee governs. California's daily overtime requirement is a key difference from federal law.
What counts as hours worked for overtime calculation?
Hours worked includes all time an employee is suffered or permitted to work, whether on or off the employer's premises. This includes certain on-call time, travel time during the workday, and required training time. Meal breaks of 30 minutes or more that are completely relieved of duty are generally not counted.