Biweekly vs. Semimonthly Pay Periods

Pay · Updated October 8, 2026

By Work Hours Desk editorial team. This guide is an educational calculation example, not a legal determination.

Biweekly pay means once every two weeks, usually 26 paychecks in a 52-week year. Semimonthly pay means twice a month, usually 24 paychecks, such as the 15th and last day. A semimonthly period may include parts of three workweeks.

Overtime example

If a biweekly period has 38 hours in week 1 and 45 in week 2, a simple 40-hour weekly test gives 5 overtime hours. Averaging 83 ÷ 2 = 41.5 would produce the wrong split. The DOL overtime overview describes a fixed workweek; a pay period does not replace it.

Example at a glance

Entered time or pay	Adjustment	Result
38 hours + 45 hours	40-hour threshold separately by week	5 overtime hours

Try your own values

Use the related calculator and compare the result with your original time and pay records.

Common questions

Can I use this number for payroll?

Treat it as a check, then verify the relevant pay policy and official records.

Does this replace legal guidance?

No. The linked official agency provides the rule; this page explains an example.

Estimates are for reference only, not payroll or legal advice. Check your records and applicable rules.