How California overtime works
California counts overtime by the day as well as by the week, which makes it different from the federal rule of 40 hours:
- Hours over 8 in a workday, up to 12, are paid at 1.5 times the regular rate.
- Hours over 12 in a workday are paid at double the regular rate.
- On the seventh consecutive day of work in a workweek, the first 8 hours are paid at 1.5 times and anything beyond 8 hours at double time.
- Hours over 40 in a workweek are paid at 1.5 times, if they were not already overtime under the daily rules.
Examples at $30 an hour
| Week | Regular | 1.5x | 2x | Gross pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 days of 8 hours | 40 h | 0 h | 0 h | $1,200.00 |
| 5 days of 10 hours | 40 h | 10 h | 0 h | $1,650.00 |
| 5 days of 12 hours | 40 h | 20 h | 0 h | $2,100.00 |
| 5 days of 13 hours | 40 h | 20 h | 5 h | $2,400.00 |
| 6 days of 8 hours | 40 h | 8 h | 0 h | $1,560.00 |
| 7 days of 8 hours | 40 h | 16 h | 0 h | $1,920.00 |
Working 5 days of 12 hours earns the same 40 regular hours as a normal week, but 20 of the 60 hours are overtime, so the gross pay is $2,100.00 instead of $1,200.00.
Take-home pay in California
The calculator applies federal tax, Social Security, Medicare, California income tax and California State Disability Insurance (1.3% of all wages in 2026). It treats the week you enter as if every week looked the same. For more on how California taxes a paycheck, see the California paycheck calculator.
Who these rules cover
These rules apply to non-exempt employees. Many salaried executives, administrators and professionals are exempt, and certain industries and alternative workweek schedules have different rules. Confirm your situation with the California Department of Industrial Relations or an employment lawyer.
California overtime FAQ
Do I get overtime for working over 8 hours in a day?
Yes, if you are a non-exempt employee on a standard schedule. Hours past 8 in a day are paid at 1.5 times your regular rate.
When does double time start?
After 12 hours in a single day, and for hours beyond 8 on the seventh consecutive day of the workweek.
Is overtime taxed more in California?
No. It is taxed like regular wages, but withholding can look heavy on a large check. The difference is settled when you file.
Estimates assume 2026 rules, the standard deduction and 52 weeks like the one entered. This is not legal or tax advice.