Massachusetts Overtime Laws

  Massachusetts has some of the strongest overtime laws in the United States, providing significant protections for workers. These laws go beyond the basic requirements of the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), ensuring fair compensation for overtime work.

 

Key Features of Massachusetts Overtime Law:

  • Overtime Rate: Massachusetts mandates overtime pay at 1.5 times the regular rate of pay for hours worked over 40 in a workweek, aligning with the FLSA.

 

  • Sunday and Holiday Pay: Employees are entitled to 1.5 times their regular rate of pay for any hours worked on Sundays and certain holidays. This provision is unique to Massachusetts and offers additional compensation for those working on these days.

 

  • Enforcement: The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office enforces the state’s wage and hour laws, including overtime regulations.

Minimum Wage in Massachusetts

  Massachusetts has a higher minimum wage than the federal minimum wage standard. As of January 1, 2024, it is $15.00 per hour, and it is set to increase to $16.25 on January 1, 2025.

Statute of Limitations

  The statute of limitations for unpaid overtime claims in Massachusetts is 3 years, providing employees with more time to pursue their claims compared to the federal (FLSA) standard of 2-3 years.

Damages for unpaid overtime

Massachusetts employees can typically recover the following damages:

                    • Unpaid overtime wages
                    • Treble (triple) damages in some cases
                    • Attorneys’ fees
                    • Costs associated with the legal action

Overtime Exemptions in Massachusetts

  Massachusetts has its own set of exemptions to overtime laws, which differ from federal exemptions. It’s crucial to understand these state-specific exemptions to determine eligibility for overtime pay.

 

Need Help with Massachusetts Overtime Laws?

  If you believe your employer has violated Massachusetts overtime laws, it’s essential to seek legal counsel. Our experienced overtime attorneys can help you understand your rights and pursue a claim for unpaid wages.