Overtime Rules: Exempt vs Non-Exempt (What It Means for Your Pay)
Overtime rules can be confusing because eligibility is based on classification, not just whether you’re paid hourly or salary.
At a high level:
- Non-exempt workers are typically eligible for overtime pay.
- Exempt workers are typically not eligible for overtime pay.
Classification depends on role duties and other factors, so when in doubt, confirm with HR and your local labor rules.
If you’re eligible and want to estimate overtime pay, use the Overtime Pay Calculator.
Salary does not automatically mean “no overtime”
Many salaried roles are exempt, but some salaried roles can still be non-exempt. The key is the classification and job duties tests, not the pay frequency.
If you want to convert a salary to an hourly equivalent for planning, use the Salary to Hourly Calculator.
How to estimate pay impact
If you’re non-exempt and work extra hours:
- Estimate gross overtime using Overtime Pay Calculator
- Estimate net deposit using Paycheck Calculator
FAQ
Why does exempt vs non-exempt matter?
It determines whether you’re eligible for overtime pay and how your hours are treated for payroll.
If I’m salaried, can I still get overtime?
Sometimes. It depends on classification and job duties. Some employers pay additional compensation even when not required.
What if I work “off the clock”?
That can be a compliance issue. Track your hours and speak with HR. Rules vary by jurisdiction.
How do I estimate my effective hourly rate?
Convert salary to hourly using the Salary to Hourly Calculator, then compare to expected hours.
How do bonuses interact with overtime?
Some bonuses can affect regular rate calculations depending on policies. For planning, estimate bonus separately with the Bonus Calculator.