How overtime works in Colorado
Colorado: OT after 12 hrs/day OR 40 hrs/week, whichever results in more OT pay.
- Weekly OT threshold: 40 hours
- Daily OT threshold: 12 hours
- OT multiplier: 1.5× regular rate
- Double time: Not required by state law
- State minimum wage: $14.42/hr (2024)
- 7th-day rule: No special rule
How to calculate overtime in Colorado
To calculate your Colorado overtime pay manually, use this formula based on the state's specific rules:
Overtime Pay = (OT Hours) × (Regular Rate × 1.5)
Daily overtime calculation
Colorado uses a daily overtime threshold of 12 hours. This means any hours worked beyond 12 in a single day are paid at 1.5× your regular rate, regardless of your weekly total.
Example: If you work 10 hours in one day and earn $20/hr in Colorado:
- Regular pay: 12 hrs × $20 = $240.00
- Overtime pay: -2 hrs × $30 = $-60.00
- Total daily pay: $180.00
Who qualifies for overtime in Colorado?
Most non-exempt employees in Colorado qualify for overtime pay. This includes:
- Hourly employees
- Salaried employees earning under $43,888/year ($844/week as of July 2024)
- Most blue-collar workers regardless of salary
- Most healthcare workers (with industry-specific rules)
- First responders (police, firefighters)
The following workers are typically exempt from overtime requirements:
- Executive employees who supervise 2+ employees
- Administrative workers in non-manual roles using independent judgment
- Learned professionals (lawyers, doctors, certified teachers)
- Outside sales representatives
- Computer professionals earning at least $27.63/hr
What to do if you're owed unpaid overtime in Colorado
If your employer in Colorado hasn't paid you overtime you've earned, you have legal options:
- Document everything. Keep records of all hours worked, pay stubs, and any communication about your hours or pay.
- Talk to HR or your employer first. Sometimes it's an honest mistake.
- File a wage claim. Contact your state's labor commissioner or the US Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division.
- Consider a wage and hour attorney. Many work on contingency (no upfront cost).
Related calculators and guides
Other states with overtime laws
Disclaimer: This information is for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Colorado overtime laws can change. Always verify current rules with the state labor commissioner or a qualified employment attorney. Visit the official source: https://cdle.colorado.gov/wages/overtime