Work Hours Calculator — Calculate Total Hours Worked

Start TimeSelect a valid start time.

End TimeSelect a valid end time.

Unpaid Break (minutes)

Total Hours Worked

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How to Use This Tool

Enter your start time and end time.
Enter any unpaid break duration.
Click Calculate for your total hours worked.

The Work Hours Formula

Total Hours = (End Time − Start Time) − Unpaid Break Time

If your end time is earlier than your start time (an overnight shift), this calculator automatically accounts for the shift crossing midnight.

Why Unpaid Breaks Matter

Under federal law, short breaks (typically 20 minutes or less) are usually required to be paid, while longer meal breaks (typically 30 minutes or more) can be legally unpaid if you're fully relieved of duties — check your state's specific break requirements, as they vary.

Uses for This Calculator

Verifying your paycheck matches actual hours worked
Tracking hours for freelance or contract billing
Calculating hours for time-off or overtime purposes

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my shift crosses midnight?

This calculator automatically handles overnight shifts — if your end time is earlier than your start time, it assumes the shift continues into the next day and calculates accordingly.

Are unpaid breaks legally required to be excluded from work hours?

Generally, yes — longer meal breaks (typically 30+ minutes) where you're fully relieved of duties are usually unpaid and excluded, while shorter breaks are often required to be paid; specific rules vary by state.

This calculator is provided for general informational and estimation purposes only. Results should not be treated as professional financial, tax, legal, medical, or engineering advice. Always verify critical calculations with a qualified professional or official source before making decisions.