Overtime Cost Calculator
Find the total cost of overtime hours.
How overtime cost works
Overtime cost is the total pay owed for hours worked beyond standard hours, at the applicable overtime multiplier — commonly 1.5× ("time and a half") or 2× ("double time") depending on jurisdiction, union agreement, or company policy.
Enter the number of overtime hours, the base hourly rate, and the overtime multiplier that applies. The calculator returns the effective overtime hourly rate and the total overtime cost.
Overtime rules vary significantly by jurisdiction and employment classification — verify the correct multiplier and any daily/weekly threshold rules that apply to your situation before using this for payroll.
The formula
Overtime cost = Overtime hours × Base hourly rate × Overtime multiplier
Multiply the base hourly rate by the overtime multiplier to get the effective overtime rate, then multiply by the number of overtime hours.
Worked example
10 overtime hours, $20/hour base rate, 1.5× multiplier
Effective overtime rate = $20 × 1.5 = $30/hour. Total overtime cost = 10 × $30 = $300.
Frequently asked questions
What overtime multiplier should I use?
It depends on your jurisdiction, industry and any applicable union or employment agreement — 1.5× and 2× are common, but verify the rule that actually applies to your situation.
Does this calculate when overtime kicks in?
No — this calculator assumes you already know how many hours qualify as overtime. Overtime eligibility thresholds (e.g. over 40 hours/week) vary by jurisdiction and are not modeled here.
Is this legal or payroll advice?
No — this is a straightforward multiplication calculator. Consult your payroll system or legal/HR counsel for compliance with applicable overtime law.
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