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Biweekly Overtime: Why 45 + 35 Hours Includes 5 Overtime Hours

By HoursCounter · Reviewed October 1, 2026

In the ordinary federal overtime calculation, you do not average two workweeks. A 45-hour week followed by a 35-hour week has 5 overtime hours, even though the two-week total is 80.

Calculate each workweek on its own

With a 40-hour weekly threshold, week 1 has 40 regular hours and 5 overtime hours. Week 2 has 35 regular hours and no overtime. The combined report has 75 regular hours and 5 overtime hours.

Apply the rate after grouping the hours

At $25/hour and time-and-a-half overtime: 75 × $25 = $1,875 regular pay. Five × $25 × 1.5 = $187.50 overtime pay. The estimated gross total is $2,062.50.

The pay period and workweek can differ

Payroll may pay every two weeks, but the established workweek still controls ordinary weekly overtime. Align the calculator’s starting date with that boundary. Special arrangements and state rules may need a different calculation.

Try the biweekly time card calculator ↗

Check the method

Read the calculation methodology for all assumptions, precision choices, and limitations.