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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/short-breaks-are-paid

Your boss gives you a 15-minute break. Under federal law, does that time count as paid work time?

Yes. Short breaks of about 5 to 20 minutes must be paid.

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  1. Yes, short breaks count as paid work hours ✔
  2. No, breaks are never paid
  3. Only after an 8-hour shift

Why: Federal law doesn't require employers to give breaks at all. But the Labor Department says when they do give short breaks, usually 5 to 20 minutes, that time counts as paid work hours.

Huh, didn't know that: Meal breaks of 30 minutes or more, when you're fully off duty, don't have to be paid under federal law.

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Where do young cows eat lunch? In the calf-ateria.
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References

Answer: Yes, short breaks count as paid work hours. Federal law doesn't require employers to give breaks at all. But the Labor Department says when they do give short breaks, usually 5 to 20 minutes, that time counts as paid work hours.

  1. Breaks and Meal Periods (US Department of Labor) www.dol.gov/general/topic/workhours/breaks
    Federal law does not require lunch or coffee breaks.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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Work SkillsA covered, nonexempt worker logs 45 hours one week and 35 the next. Do they earn overtime?Work SkillsAn hourly employee answers work calls throughout an unpaid lunch. Under federal rules, what is that time?Work SkillsHow often should you take a break from sitting at your desk?

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