The rules in Alaska
- Overtime at 1.5× for hours over 8 in a workday or over 40 in a workweek, under the Alaska Wage and Hour Act (AS 23.10.060).
- Each hour is paid once. Hours that are already daily overtime are not counted again toward the 40.
- Employer size: the state overtime rule covers employers with 4 or more employees. Smaller employers still have to follow the federal 40-hour rule if they are covered by the FLSA.
- Flexible work hour plans: an employer and employee can sign a voluntary plan, approved by the Alaska Department of Labor, for up to 10-hour days without daily overtime. Hours over 40 in the week are still overtime.
- No double time is required by law, and no extra pay for weekends or holidays.
Who is exempt
As with federal law, exempt salaried executive, administrative and professional employees do not get overtime. Alaska also has exemptions for some industries, such as certain seafood processing, agriculture and work on small vessels. Check with the Alaska Wage and Hour section if you are unsure.
Worked example
You work four 10-hour days at $30 an hour: 40 hours. Under the federal rule that is no overtime at all. In Alaska, 2 hours each day are daily overtime: 8 hours at $45 = $360, plus 32 regular hours at $30 = $960. Gross: $1,320 instead of $1,200, unless you signed an approved flexible work hour plan.
Sources: Alaska Statutes AS 23.10.060 · Alaska Department of Labor: Wage and Hour Act
Questions
Does Alaska pay overtime after 8 hours?
Yes. Alaska requires 1.5 times the regular rate for hours over 8 in a workday or over 40 in a workweek, for employers with 4 or more employees.
Can I work 10-hour days in Alaska without overtime?
Only under a voluntary flexible work hour plan approved by the Alaska Department of Labor. Without one, hours over 8 in a day are overtime.
Is double time required in Alaska?
No. Alaska law requires time and a half. Double time only applies if your employer or union agreement offers it.