The midnight-crossing formula
Convert both times to minutes after midnight. For 10:00 PM, start is 22 × 60 = 1,320. For 6:00 AM, end is 360. Because end is earlier, add 1,440 minutes: 360 + 1,440 − 1,320 = 480 minutes, or 8 hours.
Subtract an unpaid break only after calculating the overnight duration. A 30-minute unpaid break produces 450 net minutes, or 7 hours 30 minutes.
- Enter the evening clock-in and next-morning clock-out.
- Treat an earlier end time as occurring on the following day.
- Subtract any unpaid break after confirming the full overnight duration.
Equal start and end needs confirmation
A start and end of 8:00 AM could mean no elapsed time or a full 24-hour period. WorkTime Hub does not silently assume 24 hours. It asks the user to correct or confirm the entry instead.
AM and PM mistakes
An accidental AM/PM choice can turn an eight-hour daytime shift into a long overnight shift. Review any shift marked Overnight and confirm the intended dates and times.
Workweek allocation
An overnight shift may cross both midnight and a workweek boundary. The calculator’s general estimate assigns the shift to the day on which it starts. Official payroll systems may apply organization-specific allocation rules, so verify boundary cases.
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Frequently asked questions
Is 10 PM–6 AM eight hours?
Yes, before subtracting any unpaid break.
Why is my shift marked overnight?
The entered end time is earlier than the start time.
Does midnight end the workweek?
Not automatically. A workweek is a fixed recurring 168-hour period defined by the employer.