How this calculator works

Each shift starts from your base hourly rate. Differentials are added on top as a percentage of the base rate, and they stack:

• Night shift: base + night differential
• Weekend shift: base + weekend differential (a weekend night gets both)
• Holiday: the whole stacked rate × your holiday multiplier

Hours count toward your weekly total in the order you work them. Once the week passes your overtime threshold, the remaining hours are paid at the full stacked rate × your overtime multiplier — so a night or weekend shift that runs into overtime keeps its differential.

Example

With a $40 base rate, a 15% night differential and overtime after 40 hours at 1.5×, four 12-hour night shifts add up to 48 hours. The first 40 hours are paid at $46.00 ($40 + 15%), and the last 8 hours at $69.00 ($46.00 × 1.5). Gross pay: 40 × $46 + 8 × $69 = $2,392.

Do shift differentials count toward overtime?

In the United States, the Fair Labor Standards Act generally requires shift differentials to be included in the "regular rate" used to calculate overtime, which is how this calculator works. Rules can differ by employer, union contract, state and country — for example, some hospitals use the 8/80 system, and California also has daily overtime. When in doubt, check your contract or payroll department.

Questions

How is a night shift differential calculated?
A percentage differential is added on top of your base rate. For example, a 15% night differential on a $40 base rate makes the night rate $46.00 per hour.

What if I work a night shift on a weekend?
Both differentials apply. With a $40 base, a 15% night and a 10% weekend differential, a weekend night is paid at $40 + $6 + $4 = $50.00 per hour.

How is holiday pay calculated?
This calculator multiplies your full stacked rate (base plus any differentials) by your holiday multiplier — for example 1.5× or 2×.

When does overtime start?
Here overtime starts once your weekly hours pass the threshold you set, usually 40 hours. Hours beyond it are paid at your full stacked rate times your overtime multiplier.

Does this work for UK or Australian nurses?
Yes for the math, as long as your enhancements are a percentage of your base rate — such as unsocial hours or weekend penalty rates. Official NHS Agenda for Change and Australian award rules have their own rates and conditions, so use your pay band or award for exact figures.

Is the tax figure accurate?
It's a flat estimate using the percentage you enter, not a real tax calculation. Your actual tax depends on where you live, your filing status and other income.