Meal periods (typically lasting at least 30 minutes), serve a different purpose than coffee or snack breaks and, thus, are not work time and are not compensable.

Sep 24, 2024 · As with lunch breaks, no federal labor law requires short breaks at work. Only 11 states have local laws requiring employers to offer rest periods during work hours, and these short breaks …

May 7, 2025 · This table covers whether breaks are required, if they must be paid, and any important exceptions to be aware of. If your state isn’t listed as requiring breaks, that means the default federal …

May 29, 2025 · Many employers assume there’s a universal rule around break times, but in reality, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) doesn’t mandate that employers provide breaks at all. That said, if …

Apr 3, 2023 · What are break laws? Break laws define when and how employees can use work breaks during their work. Although break regulations are determined on federal and state levels, they largely …

Jun 16, 2025 · It depends on where you work and the type of break, from short rests to full meal periods. The number of legally required breaks in an 8-hour shift involves a combination of federal and state …

Find out the regulations on lunch break laws and rest periods here.

Holiday break, a U.S. term for various school holidays Christmas break or Winter break, a break in the winter, typically around Christmas and New Years Spring break, a recess in early spring at …

Breaks are essential components of a productive workday, providing employees with opportunities to rest, recharge, and attend to personal needs. Understanding the importance of breaks, the types …

Sep 6, 2025 · Use the list below to find your state and learn about the meal and rest break rules that apply where you work. Knowing your rights can help you make sure you are getting the time and pay …