Hawaii Overtime Laws

Hawaii has its own set of overtime laws that provide additional protections for some workers, while others rely on federal standards. Understanding this mix of state and federal regulations is crucial for both employers and employees in Hawaii.

Key Points About Overtime in Hawaii:

State & Federal Overlap: Hawaii requires overtime pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek, similar to the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). However, Hawaii also mandates daily overtime for certain laborers and mechanics, offering greater protection than federal law.

High Salary Exemption: Hawaii exempts employees earning $4,000 or more per month from its overtime laws, regardless of their job duties. This means many white-collar workers must rely solely on the FLSA for overtime protection.

Enforcement: The Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) enforces state overtime laws.

Hawaii's Minimum Wage

Hawaii’s minimum wage is significantly higher than the federal minimum wage. Currently, it’s $14.00 per hour, and it’s set to increase to $16.00 in 2026 and $18.00 in 2028. This ensures Hawaii employees receive a higher base pay than the federal standard.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations for unpaid overtime claims in Hawaii is generally 2 years under the Hawaii Wage and Hour Law. However, for willful violations under the FLSA, the statute of limitations can be extended to 3 years.

Damages for Unpaid overtime

Hawaii employees can typically recover the following damages under federal law:

- - - - Unpaid overtime wages
        Liquidated (double) damages
        Attorneys’ fees

Need Legal Help with Hawaii Overtime?

Navigating the complexities of Hawaii overtime laws can be challenging. If you believe your employer has violated your rights, it’s essential to seek legal counsel. Our experienced overtime attorneys can help you understand both state and federal regulations and pursue a claim for unpaid wages.