Double Time Vs. Overtime In California: What’s The Difference?

Knowing the differences between double time vs. overtime in California is important for both employees and employers to avoid confusion and potential legal issues. Although both terms refer to extra pay for hours worked beyond the standard workweek, they apply under different circumstances.

It’s important to know when each type of pay is due. This distinction plays a big part in protecting workers’ rights, especially when it comes to overtime issues.

What Is Overtime Pay in California?

Overtime pay is compensation that employees earn when they work beyond the standard 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week. According to California law, non-exempt employees must receive 1.5 times their regular hourly rate for any hours worked over these specifications.

For example, if an employee works 9 hours a day, the first 8 hours will be paid at the regular hourly rate. The 9th hour will be paid at time-and-a-half.

Overtime pay applies to a large number of workers, including those in retail, manufacturing, and other industries where employees often work beyond standard office hours.

Some workers may be exempt from overtime pay, such as salaried employees in certain executive, professional, or administrative roles. Realizing the specific requirements for overtime pay can help prevent costly mistakes for both employers and workers.

What Is Double Time Pay in California?

Double time pay is a higher level of compensation, usually reserved for situations where an employee works well beyond regular hours.

Under California law, double time is in effect under two main conditions:

First, employees are entitled to double their regular rate of pay if they work more than 12 hours in a single workday.

Second, if they work more than 8 hours on the 7th consecutive day of a workweek, they are also entitled to double time.

Differences Between Double Time vs. Overtime

The main difference between double time vs. overtime is in the type of work hours that trigger the added compensation. Overtime applies when an employee works over 8 hours in a single day or more than 40 hours in a week, with the extra pay at a rate of 1.5 times their regular wage.

Double time is reserved for more extreme cases, such as working over 12 hours in a day or working more than 8 hours on the 7th consecutive day of the workweek. It is paid at twice the employee’s usual hourly rate.

Legal Assistance with Employment Issues

If you are an employee facing potential issues with overtime pay, or believe you are not receiving the appropriate compensation for extra hours worked, it may be time to seek legal assistance. An experienced employment attorney can help address employment issues and help you receive fair compensation.

A qualified employment law attorney can help you work through the complexities of wage and hour laws and protect your rights. They can make sure you receive the wages you are entitled to, including overtime and double time pay. They will also advise on the best course of action if there are any discrepancies.

Sirmabekian Law Firm and Your Employment Rights

Sirmabekian Law Firm knows the intricacies of labor laws in California, including double time vs. overtime matters. Our firm has years of experience advocating for employees who face issues related to unpaid wages, wrongful termination, discrimination, and more. We are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for fair compensation.

Call us at 818-473-5003 or use our online form to reach out today.