How to Calculate Time and a Half
To calculate time and a half, multiply your regular hourly rate by 1.5. Learn the step-by-step formula and check examples for $15, $20, and $25 per hour.
M. Imtinan Farooq
Data Engineer & Financial Analyst
To calculate time and a half, multiply your regular hourly rate by 1.5. Then multiply that overtime rate by the number of overtime hours. For a full paycheck estimate, use the time and a half calculator.
Time and a half formula
Calculating your overtime rate and pay is straightforward when using standard payroll formulas:
Example: $20 per hour
If your regular rate is $20/hour, your time-and-a-half rate is $30/hour.
Formula calculation:
If you work 5 overtime hours:
Quick time-and-a-half examples
Here is a quick-reference chart displaying regular base rates converted to 1.5× time-and-a-half rates, along with estimated premium pay for 5 overtime hours:
| Regular rate | Time-and-a-half rate | 5 overtime hours |
|---|---|---|
| $15/hr | $22.50/hr | $112.50 |
| $18/hr | $27.00/hr | $135.00 |
| $20/hr | $30.00/hr | $150.00 |
| $25/hr | $37.50/hr | $187.50 |
| $30/hr | $45.00/hr | $225.00 |
Is overtime always time and a half?
Under the federal FLSA framework, covered non-exempt employees generally receive at least 1.5× their regular rate for hours over 40 in a workweek. Some states, contracts, or employer policies may apply different or additional premium-pay rules.
To learn more about federal baselines and state exceptions, you can review our FLSA overtime guide or browse individual state overtime calculators for specific state rules.
What if bonuses, commissions, or multiple rates are involved?
If overtime includes non-discretionary bonuses, commissions, shift differentials, or multiple hourly rates, the regular rate of pay may need to be calculated first.
In these cases, standard base wage calculations are insufficient. You can use our specialized regular rate of pay calculator to fold non-hourly pay into your base overtime calculations.
FAQ
1. How do you calculate time and a half?
To calculate time and a half, multiply your base hourly rate by 1.5. For instance, if you earn $20/hr, your overtime rate is $30/hr. To calculate overtime pay, multiply that rate by your overtime hours. For quick calculations, use our homepage calculator.
2. What is time and a half for $20 an hour?
Time and a half for $20 per hour is $30 per hour ($20 × 1.5 = $30). You can enter this rate into our overtime calculator to estimate your total weekly earnings.
3. What is time and a half for $15 an hour?
Time and a half for $15 per hour is $22.50 per hour ($15 × 1.5 = $22.50). Use our calculator to check how this affects your total paycheck for any amount of overtime hours.
4. Is overtime pay always time and a half?
Under the federal FLSA framework, covered non-exempt employees generally receive at least 1.5 times their regular rate for hours over 40. However, state rules, employer agreements, or contracts may specify higher rates like double time.
5. How do I calculate total pay with overtime?
Calculate standard pay (regular rate × regular hours, up to 40), calculate overtime pay (time-and-a-half rate × overtime hours), and sum both values. You can estimate this automatically on our time and a half calculator.
Disclaimer: This article is educational only and does not provide legal, tax, or payroll advice. Actual overtime treatment can depend on exemptions, state rules, contracts, policies, and case-specific facts.
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Educational Disclaimer
This tool provides educational overtime estimates based on statutory baselines. It is not formal legal, financial, or tax advice. Actual wage calculations can vary based on local municipal ordinances, specific collective bargaining agreements, salary docking policies, or custom shift arrangements. Always consult official state labor departments or qualified professionals for situation-specific guidance.