Time Clock Rounding and the 7-Minute Rule

Conversions · Updated October 8, 2026

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

Nearest-quarter-hour rounding places a punch at 9:07 closer to 9:00 and 9:08 closer to 9:15. A 9:07 clock-in and 5:08 clock-out would round to 9:00 and 5:15, yielding 8:15 before unpaid breaks.

Do not round a total twice

Round punches only if the chosen policy calls for it, then compute elapsed minutes and add the period. Federal regulation 29 CFR § 785.48(b) addresses rounding to five minutes, a tenth of an hour or a quarter hour when the practice does not, over time, undercompensate employees. The site offers a calculation setting, not a compliance determination.

Example at a glance

Entered time or pay	Adjustment	Result
9:07 AM–5:08 PM	Nearest quarter-hour punches	8:15 before breaks

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.