Hours Calculator
Adjust the inputs below. Results update as you type.
How it works
Enter start and end times; the calculator handles midnight crossings. For punch-in/punch-out timesheets, enter multiple intervals and sum them. Hours can be expressed as decimal (7.5h) or hours:minutes (7h 30m). To convert decimal hours to payroll minutes, multiply the fractional part by 60. Overtime typically applies to hours exceeding 8/day or 40/week depending on jurisdiction.
Input guidance
- Confirm date/time/unit settings before comparing outputs.
- If a task has optional fields, run both with and without them to understand impact.
- Save scenario variants when making practical decisions.
The formula
Worked hours = end time − start time − unpaid breaks. Convert to decimal hours (minutes ÷ 60) to multiply by an hourly rate for pay.
Worked example
9:00 to 17:30 with a 30-minute lunch is 8 hours of work; at $20/hour that is $160 for the day.
More examples to test
- Quick-pass example: run default assumptions for a first estimate.
- Refined example: update one assumption at a time to isolate impact.
How to interpret results
Use outputs as operational estimates and pair them with local constraints, business rules, or provider requirements.
When this can be inaccurate
Utilities can miss local policy details, special-case rules, and environment-specific constraints.
Change history
- July 2026: Quality-reviewed for publication with formula checks and explanatory copy updates.
Site-wide corrections also appear on the corrections log.
Find productivity tools for everyday workflows
General recommendation, not professional advice.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert minutes to decimal hours?+
Divide minutes by 60. 45 minutes is 0.75 hours, so 8 hours 45 minutes is 8.75 decimal hours for payroll math.
Should I subtract breaks?+
Subtract unpaid breaks like lunch; keep paid breaks in. The result is the actual payable time worked.
How do overnight shifts work?+
When the end time is earlier than the start, the shift crossed midnight, so add 24 hours before subtracting.
Why are outputs slightly different from another tool?+
Different tools can use different rounding rules, default assumptions, and treatment of edge cases.
How can I improve estimate reliability?+
Use verified inputs from real records and re-run calculations after major assumption changes.