Should I be paid overtime and, if so, how does it work?

Whether you are entitled to be paid for overtime, and at what rate is matter for agreement between you and your employer.

If there is an agreement it becomes an express term in the contract of employment. The method of pay calculation should be set out in a written statement of particulars, which should be issued by the employer to you within eight weeks of starting work.

The contract may require some employees, often salaried staff, to work overtime without extra payment.

A collective agreement between the union and employer may specify the overtime payable.

It is usual for hourly paid employees to be paid for overtime worked. Where payment is made for overtime, the hours worked should be recorded by the employer and payment due calculated in accordance with the contract of employment at the agreed rate, i.e. plain time or premium rate. Payment is usually made a week or month in arrears.