Hours Worked Calculator
Calculate exact hours worked between a start and end time, minus unpaid breaks.
Example
8:30 AM to 5:00 PM with a 30-minute unpaid break equals 8 hours worked.
About the Hours Worked Calculator
Use this calculator to find the time worked between a start and end time after subtracting an unpaid break. It also shows the result as decimal hours for timesheets and payroll estimates.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the shift start time.
- Enter the shift end time.
- Enter any unpaid break in minutes.
- Review the hours-and-minutes result and decimal-hour result.
How the calculation works
The calculator finds the difference between the two times, accounts for a shift crossing midnight when necessary, and subtracts the unpaid break. Decimal hours are calculated by dividing total minutes by 60.
Example
8:30 AM to 5:00 PM is 8.5 hours before a break. After a 30-minute unpaid break, the result is 8 hours, or 8.00 decimal hours.
Things to keep in mind
- Use minutes for unpaid breaks so the subtraction is precise.
- Decimal hours are useful when a timesheet asks for values such as 7.50 hours.
- Overnight shifts are handled when the end time is earlier than the start time.
- Payroll rules can differ from a simple elapsed-time calculation.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate hours worked from two times?
Find the elapsed time between the start and end, then subtract any unpaid break.
What are decimal hours?
Decimal hours express minutes as a fraction of an hour. For example, 30 minutes equals 0.50 hours.
Does it work for overnight shifts?
Yes. An end time earlier than the start time is treated as a shift crossing midnight.
Why does my timesheet use decimal hours?
Decimal hours make it easier for payroll and billing systems to calculate pay or billable time.