Aug 01, 2024

Who is Entitled to Overtime—and Who Isn't

Who is entitled to overtime, and who is expected to work extra hours as part of their salary? Read through for some insights into this thorny question.

 

When it comes to determining who is exempt from overtime pay and who isn't, federal law generally maintains that managers who earn above a specific amount should be exempt, while other workers who have no powers and responsibilities when it comes to the ability of hiring or firing other employees can receive overtime payments regularly.

However, it is important to note that the title of manager in itself is not enough to exempt an employee from overtime payments, and should any employees notice their duties have changed, they may be able to file a claim for being eligible to receive overtime payments.

Are Managers Always Managers?

The main discrepancy has to do with companies where managers are forced – either due to shortness of staff, or insufficiently skilled employees – to perform the same tasks as the workers they have to oversee.

In this case, managers are not "just" managers, as their duties extend beyond the role of training and overseeing other employees, and they may be eligible for overtime payments under certain circumstances.

One of the main factors that would influence whether or not a manager might be entitled to being paid up to one and a half or even two times more per hour for overtime work is the prospect of spending more than 50% of the time reserved to their normal duties performing tasks that are geared toward regular employees.

The Income Rule

Another important rule has to do with the amount of money a manager earns per year. The idea is that an employee can only be considered to have managerial status, if he/she earns more than the federal threshold.

If the amount earned is smaller, the employee may be entitled to file a claim and request overtime payments to be provided for the hours they work extra, whether their job label is "manager" or not. There may be state rules as well.

This is just a summary of some very complicated and extensive rules. Always work with a qualified financial professional before making overtime decisions.

 ©2024


 

MORE RECENT NEWS…


Jul 30, 2026

Business Structures: LLCs, PCs and More

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of the business structure you choose when you start your company is essential. You want the structure to align with your business goals, and you want to understand how profits will be taxed and what personal assets may be at risk. Read through to explore these distinctions further.


Jul 29, 2026

Watch Out for 'Restricted' Social Security Cards for Form I-9 Purposes

Businesses must have all employees fill out a Form I-9 to ensure they are eligible to work in the United States. A Social Security card can be part of the proof, but not in all instances. Read through to avoid making a serious mistake.


Jul 28, 2026

How to Recognize a Scam

A recent report found there was more than $10 billion lost to online scams in 2022. Anyone can be vulnerable, and everyone should be aware of the red flags that should cause them concern. Read through to learn how to protect yourself.


Jul 27, 2026

IRS Makes Rare Midyear Change to Mileage Rates

A break for many who have been hit by high gas prices: The IRS has quietly announced a revision to the optional standard mileage rates for computing the allowable deductible costs of operating an automobile. Read through to see what has changed—and what hasn't.


Jul 02, 2026

The Art of the Employee Interview

You finally narrowed a large job applicant pool down to several strong candidates. The interview process will give you insights into your prospective employee. Read through for pro tips on how to conduct job interviews to find the best match for your team.


Jul 01, 2026

Think Carefully Before Cutting Employee Benefits

U.S. companies are broadly scaling back nonwage compensation, from suspending discretionary 401(k) matches to trimming paid time off and reducing parental leave. However, these savings can come with costs companies didn't anticipate. Read through to weigh the risks before your business makes any changes.




More News & Press can be found in our Archive.