Wisconsin · updated 2026-10
Wisconsin 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.
State overtime (DWD 274) is 1.5x after 40 in a workweek for most employers; no daily overtime except some public works. Exemptions largely track the FLSA (agriculture, white-collar, etc.).
Meal break
Not required
No state law requires a meal break for adult employees in Wisconsin; 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
Wisconsin law doesn't require rest breaks for adults. Short breaks an employer does give (5–20 minutes) must be paid under federal rules.
Wisconsin time card
| Day | Clock in | Break min | Clock out | Hours |
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Wisconsin pay and break questions
When does overtime start in Wisconsin?
Time and a half after 40 hours in a workweek. State overtime (DWD 274) is 1.5x after 40 in a workweek for most employers; no daily overtime except some public works. Exemptions largely track the FLSA (agriculture, white-collar, etc.).
Are lunch breaks required in Wisconsin?
No state law requires a meal break for adult employees in Wisconsin; 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 Wisconsin?
Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin?
$7.25 an hour (since 2009-07-24). Tipped cash wage $2.33.
Workers under 18 in Wisconsin
Teens have extra limits on hours and times of day, and may need a work permit. See Wisconsin teen work rules and which employers hire at 14 and 15.
Questions or a complaint? Contact the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development - Equal Rights Division, Labor Standards.