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Shift Length Calculator

Enter the start and finish of your shift to calculate paid hours. Overnight shifts are handled automatically.

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How to use this calculator

Calculate hours worked across midnight, minus unpaid breaks. Enter your values into the fields above. Your result and individual components update immediately without leaving this page.

The formula

Elapsed time = end time − start time (add 24 hours when the shift ends after midnight). Paid time = elapsed time − unpaid breaks.

Worked example

A shift from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM lasts 12 hours. With a 30-minute unpaid break, paid time is 11 hours 30 minutes.

Frequently asked questions

Can I calculate an overnight shift?

Yes. If the end time is earlier than the start time, the calculator treats it as the next day.

What if my shift lasts exactly 24 hours?

Matching start and end times are treated as 24 hours. For a zero-hour interval, use a different date-aware method.

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Important: This calculator provides arithmetic estimates, not employment, tax or legal advice. Check local rules and your own agreement before relying on a payroll figure.