How to calculate hours between two times
To find the hours between two times, subtract the start from the end, then take off any unpaid break. This calculator handles times that cross midnight and removes your break automatically, which makes it ideal for working out a shift or filling in a timesheet.
Worked example
A shift from 09:00 to 17:30 is 8 hours and 30 minutes of clock time. Take off a 30-minute break and you have 8 paid hours.
Common uses
It works for any pair of times: the hours between two times, the length of a work shift, or the time between 8am and 5pm. For overnight shifts that pass midnight it still counts correctly. Multiply the result by your hourly rate to get your pay for the shift.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate hours between two times?
Enter the start and end times and any break. The calculator subtracts the start from the end, removes the break, and handles shifts that cross midnight.
Does it work for overnight shifts?
Yes. If the end time is earlier than the start, it treats the shift as crossing midnight and counts the hours correctly.
Does it handle night shifts?
Yes. If the end time is before the start time, it treats the end as the following day.
Can I enter more than one break?
Add up all your break minutes and enter the total in the break field.
How do I get decimal hours for pay?
The 'Hours' result is already in decimal form, ready to multiply by an hourly rate.