North Carolina Overtime Laws
North Carolina has its own overtime laws in addition to federal FLSA requirements.
Weekly OT Threshold
40 hrs
Daily OT Threshold
None
Double Time
No
Minimum Wage
$7.25
Federal rate
Overtime Rules
| Weekly Overtime | Hours over 40 in a workweek paid at 1.5x |
| Daily Overtime | Not required by state law |
| Double Time | Not required by state law |
| 7th Consecutive Day | No special rule |
Exemptions
The following categories of employees may be exempt from overtime requirements:
Executive, administrative, and professional employees
Important Notes
North Carolina follows federal weekly overtime rules.
State Labor Department
North Carolina Economy and Workforce
North Carolina boasts a diverse and growing economy, with manufacturing contributing 13.3% of state GDP, the largest private sector share. The state has remade its economy around the 'Big Five' industries: technology, pharmaceuticals, food processing, transportation manufacturing, and banking. North Carolina ranked No. 2 in CNBC's 2024 Best States for Business rankings.
Industries with Common Overtime
These North Carolina industries frequently involve overtime work situations:
Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Manufacturing
Production workers at companies like Novo Nordisk and FUJIFILM often work overtime during high-demand periods and product launches.
Technology
IT professionals and tech workers in the Research Triangle area frequently work extended hours during product development cycles.
Food Processing
Production line workers in meat processing, poultry, and agricultural processing plants regularly work overtime during peak seasons.
Healthcare
Hospital nurses and medical staff work overtime shifts to address staffing needs across the state's healthcare systems.
Banking and Financial Services
Non-exempt bank employees in Charlotte, the nation's second-largest banking center, often work overtime during busy periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, North Carolina does not have a separate state overtime law. The state follows the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which requires employers to pay non-exempt employees 1.5 times their regular rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. The state minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, the same as the federal rate.
Yes, there are no limitations on how many hours an adult employee can be required to work in North Carolina. Employers can mandate overtime and may terminate employees who refuse to work overtime, regardless of how many hours they have already worked that day or week.
North Carolina follows the federal FLSA salary threshold. As of 2024, employees must earn at least $684 per week ($35,568 annually) and meet specific job duty requirements to qualify for executive, administrative, or professional exemptions from overtime.
How to File a Wage Claim in North Carolina
If you believe you are owed overtime pay, follow these steps:
Contact the NC Department of Labor Wage and Hour Bureau at 1-800-625-2267 to discuss your claim.
File your wage complaint online through the NC Department of Labor website, ensuring you have all required information ready.
Provide your contact information, employer details, rate of pay, total amount owed, and dates of employment.
The Bureau will assign a case identification number and investigate your claim.
The Department may hold hearings to resolve the issue or file a lawsuit on your behalf if necessary.
Important North Carolina Consideration
North Carolina has earned the nickname 'Battery Belt' due to significant investments in electric vehicle and battery production. Workers in these emerging EV manufacturing facilities should be aware that production demands may lead to frequent overtime opportunities, and employers must still comply with FLSA overtime requirements regardless of industry growth pressures.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Overtime laws can change and may have exceptions not listed here. For specific situations, consult with your employer's HR department, the state labor department, or an employment attorney.