Paid vs. Unpaid Breaks Under Federal Law

Breaks · Updated October 8, 2026

By Work Hours Desk editorial team. This guide is an educational calculation example, not a legal determination.

A 9:00 AM–5:30 PM shift spans 8:30. Subtracting a genuinely unpaid 30-minute meal leaves 8:00. If a 15-minute rest period is paid, it stays in the 8:00 worked total; subtracting it again would undercount.

Federal starting point

The U.S. DOL hours-worked fact sheet explains that short rest breaks are generally compensable and bona fide meal periods are generally not work time when the worker is relieved from duty. State rules and facts may add requirements.

Example at a glance

Entered time or pay	Adjustment	Result
9:00 AM–5:30 PM	30-minute unpaid meal; paid rest stays worked	8:00 worked

Try your own values

Use the related calculator and compare the result with your original time and pay records.

Common questions

Can I use this number for payroll?

Treat it as a check, then verify the relevant pay policy and official records.

Does this replace legal guidance?

No. The linked official agency provides the rule; this page explains an example.

Estimates are for reference only, not payroll or legal advice. Check your records and applicable rules.