How to calculate hours worked between two times
- Convert both times to a 24-hour clock (5:30 PM = 17:30).
- Subtract the start time from the end time (17:30 − 9:00 = 8 h 30 min).
- Subtract unpaid breaks (−30 min = 8 h).
- If the end time is earlier than the start, the shift crossed midnight, add 24 hours.
Decimal hours for payroll
Payroll systems use decimal hours. Divide the minutes by 60: 7 h 45 min is 7.75 hours. The calculator shows both formats for every day.
Weekly totals and overtime
The weekly total adds every day you fill in. Hours over 40 are shown as overtime, which matches the US federal rule for non-exempt employees; your contract or country may differ. To track hours live as you work, use the work hours tracker; for a printable sheet, use the timesheet generator.
Turning clock times into payable hours
For each day, subtract the clock-in time from the clock-out time, then subtract unpaid breaks. Add the daily totals for the week and convert minutes to decimals: 15 minutes is 0.25, 30 is 0.5 and 45 is 0.75. Multiplying decimal hours by the hourly rate gives gross pay before tax and deductions.
Rounding rules employers use
Many US payroll systems round punches to the nearest 5, 6 or 15 minutes. Rounding is permitted only when it is neutral over time, it must not consistently favour the employer. If your totals differ from your payslip, compare the unrounded times first; that usually explains the gap. See the 7-minute rule rounding guide for a full chart and worked example.
Minutes to decimal hours
| Minutes | Decimal hours |
|---|---|
| 5 | 0.08 |
| 10 | 0.17 |
| 15 | 0.25 |
| 20 | 0.33 |
| 30 | 0.50 |
| 40 | 0.67 |
| 45 | 0.75 |
| 50 | 0.83 |