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Glossary


What is Overtime in South Africa

25 May 2024
Author: Neil Helps

What is Overtime in South Africa

Overtime is the term used to describe any hours an employee works beyond their regular scheduled work hours. Although a broad definition of overtime simply refers to hours worked beyond the normal work schedule, it often simultaneously refers to the compensation received for such work. The rate of overtime pay can differ among companies and depends on the details of the overtime, like the total number of overtime hours worked. Common overtime rates are one and a half times and double the regular pay rate.

Frequently asked questions

What are the rules for overtime pay in South Africa

Workers in South Africa have the right to additional pay for overtime, earning 1.5 times their regular salary. On Sundays and public holidays, the wage rate is twice as much. However, this setup can be modified through a mutual agreement between the employer and the worker.

How to calculate overtime hours in South Africa

To calculate overtime pay, you need to take the employee's hourly wage and times it by 150%, giving you the hourly overtime wage. For example, if an employee receives R8000 a month and works 220 hours, their hourly wage is R36. 36; in this way, their overtime rate will be R54.50.

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