[Real Life HR] Do I Have to Provide Breaks to My Employees?

It's a question we hear often from employers: Do I have to provide meal or rest breaks to my employees?

The short answer is not under federal law.

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) does not require employers to provide meal periods or rest breaks. However, if you choose to offer short breaks—typically 5 to 20 minutes—those breaks are generally considered paid working time and must be included in hours worked. Bona fide meal periods, usually 30 minutes or longer, do not have to be paid as long as the employee is completely relieved of all work duties.

One important federal exception is the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act, which requires employers to provide eligible employees with reasonable break time to express breast milk for up to one year following the birth of a child.

What About Ohio Employers?

For employers in Ohio, state law does not require meal or rest breaks for employees 18 years of age or older. The exception is for employees under age 18, who must receive an uninterrupted 30-minute break when working more than five consecutive hours.

If your business has employees working in multiple states—or remote employees working outside Ohio—remember that break laws are determined by the state where the employee works, not where your business is headquartered. State requirements can vary based on shift length, industry, or the employee's age.

Best Practice: Have a Clear Break Policy

Even when breaks aren't legally required, many employers choose to offer them. Providing employees with time to recharge can help improve productivity, reduce fatigue, and support overall employee well-being.

If your company offers meal or rest breaks, make sure your employee handbook clearly outlines:

• When breaks are provided
• Whether breaks are paid or unpaid
• Employee expectations during break periods

Clear policies help set expectations and reduce confusion for both managers and employees.