Direct answer
Total the approved paid hours for the workweek, separate hours above the overtime threshold, then apply the correct overtime rate before payroll closes.
Working formula: Overtime gross pay = overtime hours x hourly rate x overtime multiplier.
Open Overtime Pay CalculatorA realistic workplace example
If the approved week is 43.25 paid hours and overtime starts after 40, there are 3.25 overtime hours. At $22/hour and 1.5x, overtime gross pay is $107.25.
Approved paid hours: 43.25; regular hours: 40.00; overtime hours: 3.25; overtime gross: 3.25 x $22 x 1.5 = $107.25.
Comparison table
| Input | Check | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Search question | check overtime before payroll | Total the approved paid hours for the workweek, separate hours above the overtime threshold, then apply the correct overtime rate before payroll closes. |
| Formula | Overtime gross pay = overtime hours x hourly rate x overtime multiplier. | If the approved week is 43.25 paid hours and overtime starts after 40, there are 3.25 overtime hours. At $22/hour and 1.5x, overtime gross pay is $107.25. |
| Copyable result | Keep assumptions visible | Approved paid hours: 43.25; regular hours: 40.00; overtime hours: 3.25; overtime gross: 3.25 x $22 x 1.5 = $107.25. |
How to check it without overthinking
Key checks
- Use approved paid hours after unpaid breaks.
- Check the overtime threshold used by the employer.
- Separate regular hours from overtime hours.
- Multiply overtime hours by the premium rate.
- Save the math before submitting a payroll correction.
Mistakes that change the answer
Do not count unpaid lunch as worked overtime.
Do not assume PTO or holiday hours count toward overtime.
Do not compare overtime gross pay with final net pay.
Copy this note
Approved paid hours: 43.25; regular hours: 40.00; overtime hours: 3.25; overtime gross: 3.25 x $22 x 1.5 = $107.25.
If you send the result to payroll, HR, a manager, or a client, include the inputs and the rule you used. That makes the number easier to verify.
Useful next pages
Related page: /guides/how-do-i-calculate-overtime-after-40-hours/
Related page: /guides/how-to-check-weekly-hours-before-payroll-closes/
Related page: /tools/time-card-calculator-with-lunch-break/
Open Overtime Pay Calculator