Start time (24-hour), End time (24-hour), Unpaid break
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How this calculator works
Enter when you started and when you finished to get the elapsed time as hours and minutes and as a decimal, which is the form timesheets and payroll use. If the end time is earlier than the start time, the calculator treats the shift as running past midnight into the next day.
Formula
- Duration = end time − start time (plus 24 hours if the end is earlier)
- Worked time = duration − break
- Decimal hours = minutes / 60
Worked example
09:00 to 17:30 with a 30-minute break
- Start time (24-hour)
- 09:00
- End time (24-hour)
- 17:30
- Unpaid break
- 30 min
Result8 h 00 min
8.00 hours.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert minutes to decimal hours?
Divide by 60. 7 hours 45 minutes is 7 + 45/60 = 7.75 hours.
How are overnight shifts handled?
If the end time is earlier than the start time, the end is taken to be on the following day. 22:00 to 06:00 is 8 hours.
Should I subtract my lunch break?
If the break is unpaid, enter its length and it is taken off. Leave it at 0 for paid breaks.
Sources
More in Date & Time
Results are estimates based on the values you enter and the published method shown above. They do not replace professional medical, financial or legal advice. Method reviewed October 7, 2026. About this site