How should overtime and half days be handled for employees?
Define overtime as time worked beyond the shift with prior approval, decide whether it is paid (and at what rate) or given as time off, set minimum hours for a full day and a half day, and track it automatically from punch times. Follow local wage law for overtime pay. PalmGro Flow measures overtime and half days against each shift.
Half-day rules
- Full day: at least the shift hours minus a small grace.
- Half day: for example between 4 and 6 hours, or arriving after a set time.
- Absent: below the half-day minimum without approved leave.
Overtime rules
- Approval: overtime must be approved in advance, except emergencies.
- Minimum: for example at least 30 minutes beyond shift end counts.
- Pay or comp-off: paid at a set rate, or converted to time off. Labour laws set overtime pay rules for many workers; check what applies to your staff.
- Limits: a monthly maximum to protect health.
Why automatic tracking matters
Manually counted overtime leads to disputes. Punch times measured against the person's own shift give one clear number. See managing shifts.
Salaried office staff
Many businesses do not pay overtime to managers and senior salaried staff but give time off for long days. Write whatever you decide.
How PalmGro Flow helps
PalmGro Flow measures late, early and overtime against each member's shift from punch data, applies half-day rules and feeds payroll. You can set daily and hourly wage rules, so overtime is calculated the same way every month.
This guide is general information. Overtime rules differ by law and category of worker; confirm with your advisor.
Questions people ask
Is overtime pay compulsory?
For many categories of workers, labour laws require overtime pay at a higher rate. Check which rules apply to your staff.
Can I give comp-off instead of overtime pay?
Many businesses do for salaried staff, where allowed. Write the rule in your policy.
How do I stop unapproved overtime?
Require prior approval and only count approved overtime in payroll.
PalmGro Flow brings your team, clients, tasks, attendance and money into one place, on phone and computer. Try it free, no card needed.Set it up for your team in minutes.