Overtime Pay in the UK
Unlike some countries, the UK has no statutory overtime premium. Whether overtime is paid, and at what rate, depends entirely on your contract of employment or any collective agreement. Common arrangements are time and a half (1.5×) for weekday overtime and double time (2×) for Sundays or bank holidays, but an employer can lawfully pay overtime at your basic rate — or not pay it at all — provided your average pay still meets the National Minimum Wage.
This calculator converts a monthly salary to an hourly rate (salary × 12 ÷ 52 ÷ weekly hours) and applies the multipliers you choose. Every multiplier starts at 1× so you see plain-time pay until you enter your contract's rates.
Overtime is taxed through PAYE in the pay period it's paid, and attracts National Insurance like any other pay. A large overtime month can push some of your pay into a higher tax band for that period, but the cumulative PAYE system evens this out over the tax year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is overtime paid at time and a half in the UK?
Only if your contract says so. There's no legal requirement for any overtime premium.
Is Sunday or bank holiday work paid at double time?
Not by law. Many employers pay enhanced rates for these, but it's contractual. Shop and betting workers in England and Wales have special rights to opt out of Sunday working.
Can I refuse to work overtime?
If your contract says overtime is compulsory, you usually have to do it. If it doesn't, you can refuse. Either way you can't be made to average more than 48 hours a week unless you've opted out.
Does overtime count towards holiday pay?
Yes, if it's regular. Holiday pay for the 4 weeks of EU-derived statutory leave must reflect normal pay, including regular overtime.
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