Overtime Rules in the UK

There's no legal right to overtime pay — your contract sets the terms. Common conventions: time-and-a-half for evenings/weekends, double time for Sundays and bank holidays. Your average pay including overtime must not fall below the National Minimum Wage (£12.71 for 21+, 2026/27).

The 48-Hour Week

The Working Time Regulations cap average working time at 48 hours/week (averaged over 17 weeks) unless you've signed an opt-out. You can cancel an opt-out with 7 days' notice.

Overtime and Holiday Pay

Following UK case law, regular compulsory and voluntary overtime must be reflected in at least 4 weeks of your statutory holiday pay — if you regularly work overtime, your holiday pay should be higher than basic pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is overtime pay a legal requirement in the UK?

No. There is no statutory right to enhanced overtime rates — your contract governs. Your average hourly pay must still meet the National Minimum Wage.

What is time and a half?

Overtime paid at 1.5 times your normal hourly rate. £15/hour becomes £22.50/hour for overtime hours.

Does overtime affect holiday pay?

Yes — regular overtime must be included in at least 4 weeks of statutory holiday pay under UK case law.