New Hampshire · updated 2026-10
New Hampshire Overtime & Break Laws
Time and a half after 40 hours in a workweek.
Overtime
40h / week
Time and a half after 40 hours in a workweek.
1.5x after 40/week (RSA 279:21-b), with exemptions that largely follow the FLSA.
Meal break
30 min
Yes: 30 minutes for shifts over 5 hours, usually unpaid. 30 min after 5 consecutive hours (RSA 275:30-a). Not required if it is feasible to eat while working and the employer allows it, but the employee must then be paid for that time.
Rest breaks
Not required
New Hampshire law doesn't require rest breaks for adults. Short breaks an employer does give (5–20 minutes) must be paid under federal rules.
Minimum wage
$7.25
$7.25 an hour (since 2009-07-24). The state minimum is tied to the federal $7.25. Tipped cash wage is $3.27 (45% of minimum).
New Hampshire time card
| Day | Clock in | Break min | Clock out | Hours |
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New Hampshire pay and break questions
When does overtime start in New Hampshire?
Time and a half after 40 hours in a workweek. 1.5x after 40/week (RSA 279:21-b), with exemptions that largely follow the FLSA.
Are lunch breaks required in New Hampshire?
Yes: 30 minutes for shifts over 5 hours, usually unpaid. 30 min after 5 consecutive hours (RSA 275:30-a). Not required if it is feasible to eat while working and the employer allows it, but the employee must then be paid for that time.
Are rest breaks required in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire law doesn't require rest breaks for adults. Short breaks an employer does give (5–20 minutes) must be paid under federal rules.
What is the minimum wage in New Hampshire?
$7.25 an hour (since 2009-07-24). The state minimum is tied to the federal $7.25. Tipped cash wage is $3.27 (45% of minimum).
Workers under 18 in New Hampshire
Teens have extra limits on hours and times of day, and may need a work permit. See New Hampshire teen work rules and which employers hire at 14 and 15.
Questions or a complaint? Contact the New Hampshire Department of Labor, Inspection Division (Wage & Hour).