Calculation Results
California Overtime Laws 2024
Regular Overtime (1.5x)
Applies to hours worked beyond 8 per day or 40 per week
Double Time (2x)
Applies after 12 hours in a workday or after 8 hours on the 7th consecutive workday
Minimum Wage 2024
$16.00 per hour for all employers in California
Understanding California Overtime Laws
Daily Overtime Rules
California has unique daily overtime rules that differ from federal standards. Understanding these rules is crucial for both employers and employees.
- First 8 hours: Regular rate
- Hours 8-12: Time and a half (1.5x)
- Beyond 12 hours: Double time (2x)
If you work 14 hours in one day, you'll receive: 8 hours at regular pay + 4 hours at 1.5x + 2 hours at 2x
Weekly Overtime Calculations
Weekly overtime applies after 40 hours in a workweek, regardless of how many hours are worked each day.
- Up to 40 hours: Regular rate
- Beyond 40 hours: Time and a half (1.5x)
- Exceptions may apply for alternative workweek schedules
Working 45 hours in a week with no daily overtime: 40 hours regular + 5 hours at 1.5x
Seventh Day Premium
California law requires premium pay for employees who work seven consecutive days in a workweek.
- First 8 hours: Time and a half (1.5x)
- Beyond 8 hours: Double time (2x)
- Must be seventh consecutive day
Working 10 hours on the 7th day: 8 hours at 1.5x + 2 hours at 2x
Alternative Workweek Schedules
California allows for alternative workweek schedules when properly implemented with employee agreement.
- Written agreement required
- 2/3 employee approval needed
- Regular schedule of 10-hour days possible
4/10 Schedule: Four 10-hour days with no overtime until after 10 hours
Meal Break Premium Pay
California requires premium pay when meal breaks are missed or taken late.
- 30-minute meal break before 5th hour
- Second meal break before 10th hour
- One hour premium pay for violations
Missing a meal break: Regular pay + 1 hour premium pay
2024 Minimum Wage Impact
California's new minimum wage affects overtime calculations for all workers.
- Minimum wage: $16.00/hour
- Minimum overtime rate: $24.00/hour (1.5x)
- Minimum double time rate: $32.00/hour (2x)
At minimum wage, 10 hours worked: 8 hours at $16 + 2 hours at $24
Frequently Asked Questions
How is overtime calculated in California?
In California, overtime is paid at 1.5 times the regular rate for hours worked beyond 8 per day or 40 per week. Double time applies after 12 hours in a day.
What is the minimum wage in California?
As of January 1, 2024, the minimum wage in California is $16.00 per hour for all employers, regardless of size.
Do California employers have to pay double time?
Yes, California employers must pay double time (2x regular rate) for hours worked beyond 12 in a workday, or beyond 8 hours on the seventh consecutive day of work in a workweek.