How to calculate hours worked
The calculator measures the elapsed time between your start and end times and then subtracts the unpaid break duration.
Work hours example
A shift from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM lasts 8 hours 30 minutes. After subtracting a 30-minute unpaid break, the total paid working time is 8 hours.
What are decimal hours?
Decimal hours express minutes as a fraction of one hour. For example, 30 minutes equals 0.50 hours, while 15 minutes equals 0.25 hours.
Employers can use different rounding, break and overtime rules. Confirm the applicable workplace or payroll policy before using a calculated value for official pay records.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate hours between two times?
Subtract the start time from the end time, then deduct any unpaid break duration.
Does the calculator support overnight shifts?
Yes. If the end time is earlier than the start time, it is treated as occurring after midnight.
How do I convert minutes to decimal hours?
Divide the number of minutes by 60. For example, 45 minutes is 0.75 hours.
Are breaks automatically deducted?
Only the break duration you enter is deducted from the shift total.
Using this calculator effectively
This calculator finds the duration between a start time and an end time and can subtract an unpaid break. It is useful for individual shifts, appointments and work sessions where elapsed time needs to be expressed clearly.
Common uses
- Calculating paid hours for one shift.
- Checking the duration of a work session after a break deduction.
- Converting a shift length into decimal hours for another calculation.
Tips for a better estimate
- Check whether the shift crosses midnight and enter the times accordingly.
- Use the actual unpaid break length instead of an estimated value when possible.
- Keep payroll-specific rounding or overtime rules separate from the raw elapsed-time result.
Helpful guides
How to Calculate Work Hours and Break Time · How to Calculate a Time Card
Related calculations
Time Duration Calculator · Time Card Calculator · Decimal Hours Calculator