Federal FLSA Overtime Summary
Federal FLSA overtime rules summary
| FLSA Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Overtime threshold | 1.5× regular rate for hours over 40 per workweek |
| Workweek definition | Any 7 consecutive days; employer-defined; can’t change to avoid OT |
| Regular rate | All compensation ÷ all hours worked; includes non-discretionary bonuses |
| Salary threshold (2025) | $684/week ($35,568/year) for most white-collar exemptions |
| Exempt categories | Executive, administrative, professional, computer, outside sales |
| No daily overtime | Federal FLSA has no daily overtime requirement |
| No double time | Federal FLSA doesn’t require double time |
| Comp time | Prohibited for private employers; allowed for state/local government |
Key State Overtime Laws Beyond Federal
Key state overtime additions beyond federal FLSA
| State | Key Overtime Addition vs. Federal |
|---|---|
| California | Daily OT after 8 hrs; double time after 12 hrs/day; 7th day rules; higher exempt salary |
| Colorado | Daily OT after 12 hrs; higher exempt salary ($54,997/yr) |
| Nevada | Daily OT after 8 hrs if wage < 1.5× state minimum |
| Washington | Higher exempt salary threshold ($58,656/yr, large employers 2025) |
| New York | Higher exempt salary ($58,458+/yr in NYC area) |
| Massachusetts, New Jersey | Higher exempt salary thresholds than federal |
| Alaska, Maine, PA | Higher state exempt salary thresholds |
🔑The Golden Rule of Overtime Law
When state law provides more protection than federal FLSA (higher overtime rate, lower threshold, daily overtime), the state law applies. Workers are always entitled to whichever law gives them the greater benefit. Federal law sets the floor; states set higher ceilings. Never assume federal FLSA is the maximum protection.
Major Overtime Exemptions Summary
- White-collar exemptions: executive, administrative, professional — must meet salary AND duties tests
- Computer employees: software developers, IT professionals — salary or hourly rate test ($27.63/hr)
- Highly compensated employees: $107,432+ annual total compensation
- Agricultural workers: exempt from FLSA overtime; some states provide coverage
- Motor carrier employees: drivers, loaders affecting safety of vehicles in interstate commerce
- Railway and air carrier employees: covered by separate statutes
- Outside sales: primarily making sales or obtaining orders away from employer’s place
- Domestic service live-in employees: specific exemptions under FLSA
Calculate Your Overtime Under the Applicable Rule
Enter your hours and rate to see your correct overtime pay under FLSA (and check your state’s rules too).