How to Fill Out an Overtime Request Form

If you work in an hourly-paid job, then you've likely filled out an overtime request form at some point to get paid for more than 40 hours of work per week.

Overtime forms are often intimidating and complicated, but it's easy to complete them correctly and avoid getting flagged by HR if you follow these steps.

This step-by-step guide will show you how to fill out an overtime request form with ease and clarity so that your company knows what it needs to do to give you the hours you want and deserve!

Understanding timesheets

A timesheet is a record of your hours at work. If you're an hourly employee, your employer will expect you to fill out a timesheet at regular intervals throughout each week, listing how many hours you worked and how much money you earned for that period. You can often request additional overtime by filling out an overtime request form before your weekly or monthly timesheet is due.

Timesheets are essential for getting paid overtime. If you work over 40 hours a week and your boss hasn't approved it, or if they want you to get overtime but haven't permitted you, there is a unique form called an Overtime Request Form that needs to be filled out for your boss to give you extra hours. Here are some tips on how to fill out that form with ease.

The first step to preparing your overtime request form is jotting down information about when and who will be requesting time off. This will help you make sure you're promptly ready for your employee's requests. Be sure to have a designated amount of time set aside to fill out paperwork, as filling out an overtime request form can take more than one sitting.

What information do you need from your manager?

The first thing you'll need is your manager's signature. Without that, it can't get approved. After you have your manager's signature, ask what kind of information they would like to see every week for you to get paid. Your manager should give you a rough estimate, but they will know how long each task will take.

When should you request overtime?

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in the US requires that employees be paid time and a half for any hours worked over 40 in a given workweek. In many cases, overtime can be requested whenever you've worked over 40 hours in a single week, but it's usually best to coordinate with your supervisor or manager first. It would be best not to assume you will automatically receive overtime until you speak with your supervisor or HR representative and confirm that in writing.

Why are there limits on overtime?

Unfortunately, there are no guarantees when it comes to overtime. Because of lawsuits and labor laws, most companies have policies limiting how many hours employees can work. If you're trying to get some extra time—either because you're working on a significant project or because you need a little extra cash—you must understand your company's policy.

Consult your employee handbook or talk with your manager about whether your job is eligible for overtime and how much extra money you could earn for working extra hours.

Are all employees required to use electronic forms?

Yes, in most companies, all employees must use electronic forms. However, if you have a disability or other special needs that prevent you from using these methods, don't hesitate to contact your supervisor or human resources department for assistance.

Sample overtime request form

If you are an HR personnel, feel free to use our free overtime request form template to prepare one at your company. Using our online form builder, you could also build a new overtime request form from scratch. Click here to get started for free.