Ohio · updated 2026-10
Ohio 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.
Time and a half after 40 hours a week (ORC 4111.03). Employers grossing under $150,000 a year are exempt from state overtime, but the FLSA may still apply.
Meal break
Not required
No state law requires a meal break for adult employees in Ohio; it's up to the employer. If a break is under 20 minutes, federal law treats it as paid work time.
Rest breaks
Not required
Ohio 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
$11.00
$11.00 an hour (since 2026-01-01). Applies to employers grossing $405,000 or more; smaller employers and workers under 16 get $7.25. Tipped cash wage is $5.50. Rises to $11.40 (threshold $420,000) in 2027.
Ohio time card
| Day | Clock in | Break min | Clock out | Hours |
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Ohio pay and break questions
When does overtime start in Ohio?
Time and a half after 40 hours in a workweek. Time and a half after 40 hours a week (ORC 4111.03). Employers grossing under $150,000 a year are exempt from state overtime, but the FLSA may still apply.
Are lunch breaks required in Ohio?
No state law requires a meal break for adult employees in Ohio; it's up to the employer. If a break is under 20 minutes, federal law treats it as paid work time.
Are rest breaks required in Ohio?
Ohio 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 Ohio?
$11.00 an hour (since 2026-01-01). Applies to employers grossing $405,000 or more; smaller employers and workers under 16 get $7.25. Tipped cash wage is $5.50. Rises to $11.40 (threshold $420,000) in 2027.
Workers under 18 in Ohio
Teens have extra limits on hours and times of day, and may need a work permit. See Ohio teen work rules and which employers hire at 14 and 15.
Questions or a complaint? Contact the Ohio Department of Commerce, Bureau of Wage & Hour Administration.