Quick answer: From 09:00 to 17:30 is 8 hours 30 minutes; minus a 30-minute break that is 8 hours, or 8.00 decimal hours.
How it's calculated
Both times are converted to minutes after midnight and the start is subtracted from the end. If the end time is earlier than the start, the period runs past midnight, so 24 hours are added: 22:00 to 06:00 is 8 hours.
The break is then subtracted. Decimal hours are the minutes divided by 60, which is what timesheets and payroll usually need: 7 hours 45 minutes is 7.75 hours.
Type times in 24-hour form (17:30) or with am/pm (5:30 pm); Arabic digits and ص/م work too. For a whole week of shifts with pay, use the time card calculator.
Worked examples
- 09:00 to 17:30, 30-minute break: 510 − 30 = 480 min = 8:00 = 8.00 h
- 22:00 to 06:00 (overnight), no break: 360 + 1,440 − 1,320 = 480 min = 8 h
- 7:15 am to 4:00 pm, 60-minute break: 525 − 60 = 465 min = 7:45 = 7.75 h
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate hours for a night shift?
Count to midnight, then add the hours after it. 20:00 to 04:00 is 4 hours to midnight plus 4 after, 8 hours. The calculator does this when the end is earlier than the start.
How do I convert 8 hours 20 minutes to decimal?
Divide the minutes by 60 and add them to the hours: 20 ÷ 60 = 0.33, so 8.33 hours.
Should breaks be subtracted?
Subtract unpaid breaks only. Whether a break is paid depends on your contract and local labour law.
What if the shift lasts more than 24 hours?
This tool handles spans up to a day, because it only has times. For longer periods, use the time duration calculator, which also takes dates.
Can I enter times in 12-hour format?
Yes. You can type 17:30 or 5:30 pm.
How do I get my pay from these hours?
Multiply the decimal hours by your hourly rate, not the hours and minutes. 8 hours 30 minutes at 40 an hour is 8.5 × 40 = 340.