Vermont Overtime Laws
Vermont 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
$14.01
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
Vermont follows federal weekly overtime rules.
State Labor Department
Vermont Economy and Workforce
Vermont has a service-oriented economy where tourism is a $4 billion industry, representing 9.3% of the state's GDP. The state attracted 15.8 million visitors in 2023, with manufacturing (particularly computer and electronic products) contributing $1.8 billion in exports and the finance and real estate sector adding $6.58 billion to GDP.
Industries with Common Overtime
These Vermont industries frequently involve overtime work situations:
Tourism and Hospitality
Tourism supports 31,053 jobs (9% of Vermont's workforce), with visitors spending over $1 billion in Chittenden County alone. Hotel, restaurant, and ski resort employees frequently work overtime during peak seasons.
Healthcare
Healthcare and social services is a leading employment sector in Vermont. Nurses, caregivers, and medical staff often work extended shifts to provide continuous patient care, especially in rural areas.
Manufacturing
Vermont's manufacturing sector, led by computer and electronic products, supports approximately 7,000 export-related jobs. Production workers may work overtime to meet manufacturing deadlines.
Agriculture and Food Production
Vermont is famous for its dairy farms and specialty food products. Agricultural workers, particularly during harvest seasons, and food production employees often work extended hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vermont law requires employers to pay non-exempt employees 1.5 times their regular rate for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Vermont does not have daily overtime limits. Overtime is calculated based on hours accumulated over seven consecutive 24-hour periods.
As of January 1, 2025, Vermont's minimum wage is $14.01 per hour. The overtime rate for minimum wage workers is $21.02 per hour (1.5 times the regular rate) for all hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek.
Yes, Vermont employers who fail to pay overtime can face fines of up to $5,000 per violation. Employees can also file claims to recover unpaid wages. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who file wage claims.
How to File a Wage Claim in Vermont
If you believe you are owed overtime pay, follow these steps:
Collect documentation including pay stubs, timesheets, and records of hours worked and overtime not paid
Complete a wage claim form available from the Vermont Department of Labor
Submit the form online, by mail, or in person to the Wage and Hour Program in Burlington
Contact the Department at 802-951-4083 for assistance
The Department will investigate your claim and may take enforcement action against the employer
Important Vermont Consideration
Vermont offers a voluntary Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance program that began rolling out in phases starting in 2023. Private employers can opt in to provide employees with 60% wage replacement for up to six weeks. Additionally, Vermont prohibits employers from asking about salary history during hiring and, effective July 2025, requires wage ranges in job postings for employers with 5 or more employees.
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.