{"id":357857,"date":"2020-03-24T15:43:33","date_gmt":"2020-03-24T20:43:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/employment\/wages-and-benefits\/is-mandatory-overtime-legal.html"},"modified":"2025-03-21T00:28:00","modified_gmt":"2025-03-21T05:28:00","slug":"is-mandatory-overtime-legal","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/wages-and-benefits\/is-mandatory-overtime-legal.html","title":{"rendered":"Is Mandatory Overtime Legal?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Is Mandatory Overtime Legal?<\/h1>\n
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\n By Natalie Moritz<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

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Mandatory overtime is generally legal if employers follow state and federal wage laws and ensure proper compensation and safety. Laws vary by state and job type, with specific rules on overtime pay and hours. Employers must also adhere to contractual obligations.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n

Is mandatory overtime legal? Generally, yes, if the employer meets specific requirements. Mandatory overtime requests must meet state<\/a> and federal labor laws. Whether your employer can impose mandatory overtime depends on the specifics of your work situation.<\/p>\n

Understanding mandatory overtime laws in your state is key to protecting your employee rights. Contact an employment law attorney<\/a> in your area for answers.<\/p>\n

Worker shortages coupled with lingering supply chain disruptions have created a strain on employers. More employees are retiring, many are seeking remote positions, and others are simply choosing not to work<\/a>. The worker shortage may lead to your employer requiring overtime to keep up.<\/p>\n

If your employer follows the law, they can require you to work overtime. They can also legally fire you for refusing. This article explains mandatory overtime and how to navigate these requirements. Learn more about:<\/p>\n