Maryland Wage and Hour FAQs

Maryland Overtime, Wage and Hour Questions

Back to Maryland Overtime Law

What is the law in Maryland regarding overtime pay?

In general, Maryland employers are required to pay time-and-a-half compensation for hours worked in excess of 40 during a single workweek. There are certain exceptions to Maryland overtime law.

What is the difference between Maryland wage and hour law and the Fair Labor Standards Act?

Although these two wage and hour laws overlap, there are several differences. For instance, the statute of limitations under Maryland wage and hour law is three years, while the federal law only allows two years.

Should Maryland workers be compensated for breaks?

Maryland wage and hour law does not require employers to provide breaks for workers ages 18 or older. Many employers, however, choose to provide breaks to increase productivity. Employers do not have to compensate rest or meal breaks that last less than 20 minutes as long as the employee is completely relieved of their job duties. If workers are told that a 30-minute lunch break will be taken out of their daily wages and they are not free to take this meal period (without a reasonable understanding that they must work), they must be paid for this time.