Hours Calculator

Calculate hours worked between start and end times.

Time Input

Hour (0-23)

Minute (0-59)

Hour (0-23)

Minute (0-59)

Total break time in minutes (0-1440)

Hours Worked

Total Hours

7h 0m

Decimal Hours

7.00

For payroll

Total Minutes

420

Time Period:

09:00 - 17:00
Break: 60 minutes

About This Calculator

The Hours Calculator calculates the total hours worked between a start time and an end time, with optional break time deduction. It's perfect for tracking work hours, calculating wages, and time management.

Simply enter your start time, end time, and any break duration, and the calculator will automatically compute the total hours worked. The result is displayed in hours and minutes, as well as decimal hours for easy payroll calculations.

Formula & Calculation Method

Hours Calculation:

Total Minutes:
Start Time = Start Hour × 60 + Start Minutes
End Time = End Hour × 60 + End Minutes
If End Time < Start Time, add 24 hours (1440 minutes) to End Time to account for next-day (overnight) calculation
Total Minutes = End Time - Start Time - Break Minutes

Hours and Minutes:
Hours = Total Minutes ÷ 60 (floor)
Minutes = Total Minutes mod 60
Decimal Hours = Total Minutes ÷ 60

The calculator handles standard work shifts and can also calculate overnight shifts that extend past midnight. Break time is automatically deducted from the total hours worked.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter Start Time: Input the hour and minute when you started work.
  2. Enter End Time: Input the hour and minute when you finished work.
  3. Enter Break Time: Input the total break time in minutes (optional, default 60).
  4. View Results: See total hours worked in hours:minutes format and decimal hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the hours calculator work?

The calculator finds the difference between your start and end times, then subtracts any break time. It displays the result in hours and minutes, as well as decimal hours for payroll purposes.

Can I calculate overnight shifts?

Yes, the calculator handles shifts that extend past midnight. If your end time is earlier than your start time, it assumes you worked until the next day.

How do I enter break time?

Enter your total break time in minutes. For example, a 1-hour lunch break would be 60 minutes. The calculator automatically deducts this from your total hours worked.

What format is used for decimal hours?

Decimal hours are shown with two decimal places. For example, 8 hours 30 minutes = 8.50 hours. This format is commonly used for payroll calculations.

Expert Reviewed

This calculator was reviewed by NumCalculators Editorial Team, Multi-disciplinary Expert Team

Updated: 12/15/2024