How to Ask for Overtime Pay via Email: Tips and Templates

Are you unsure of how to ask for overtime pay through email? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Asking for something as sensitive as pay can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to ask for overtime pay via email effectively.

Furthermore, we understand that not everyone is confident in composing emails that tackle the subject of pay. That’s why, in this article, you will find examples of how to structure and write an email asking for overtime pay. These examples provide a clear guide on what to include and how to phrase your request. You can tailor them to suit your particular situation and company’s culture.

Whether you’re a new employee or have been with the company for a while, requesting overtime pay can be nerve-wracking. But with our help, you can confidently compose an email and get compensated for the hard work you put into your job. So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you on how to ask for overtime pay through email.

The Best Structure for How to Ask for Overtime Pay Email

Asking for overtime pay can be an uncomfortable topic, but it is a necessary conversation to have if you have worked more hours than you were originally contracted for. However, it is important to approach this conversation professionally and with a clear structure to ensure that your request is taken seriously and acknowledged by your employer. Here is a guide to the best structure for how to ask for overtime pay email.

1. Start with a professional introduction

Begin your email with a polite greeting and introduction. This sets the tone for the rest of the email and shows that you are approaching the topic in a calm and professional manner.

2. Clearly outline the tasks and hours worked

If you are asking for overtime pay, it is crucial to provide a detailed breakdown of the tasks and hours you worked. This includes the date/time worked, the specific work tasks completed, and the amount of hours worked beyond your regular work schedule. This information is vital as it allows your employer to see the extent of your work and to assess whether you are eligible for overtime pay.

3. Explain your understanding of the company’s overtime policy

Every company has different policies regarding overtime pay. It is important to research and understand your company’s policy, and to mention this in your email. This shows that you have taken the time to understand the company’s procedures and are approaching the conversation in a professional manner.

4. Make your overtime pay request

Now that you have provided a detailed breakdown of your tasks and hours worked, and have explained your understanding of the company’s overtime policy, it is time to make your request for overtime pay. This request should be clear, concise, and supported by the information you have provided earlier in the email.

5. Close with a polite thank you

After making your request for overtime pay, close the email with a polite thank you. This shows that you appreciate the employer’s time and consideration and helps to make the conversation end on a positive note.

Overall, asking for overtime pay can be a daunting topic. However, following this structure can help ensure that your request is taken seriously and addressed professionally. Remember to approach the conversation with a calm and professional attitude, and to provide detailed information to support your request.

Sample Request for Overtime Pay Emails for Different Reasons

Request for Overtime Pay for Working on Holidays

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to request overtime pay for working on the recent holiday. As you know, holidays are peak business days for our organization, and I was requested to work an extra shift to ensure that everything ran smoothly.

While I understand that holiday pay is already provided to employees, I worked additional hours outside of my regular schedule, and I believe I deserve additional compensation for my effort and dedication in making sure that our customers’ needs were met. Please let me know if you have any questions or need further information regarding my request.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing your response soon.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Request for Overtime Pay for Working On-call

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request overtime pay for the extra hours I put in during my on-call shift over the weekend. As you are aware, being on-call means that I need to respond to emergencies and work outside of my regular work schedule on short notice.

During my on-call hours, I had to attend to an urgent matter which required me to work beyond my regular hours. While I am happy to be available for an emergency, I believe additional compensation is in order, especially considering the unpredictable nature of the work.

Thank you for considering my request, and please let me know if you have any further questions or need additional information to review the matter.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Request for Overtime Pay for Working Beyond Work Hours

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope you are doing well. I am reaching out to request overtime pay for the extra hours I worked beyond my regular daily schedule. The overtime work was necessary to complete a project that was behind schedule and needed to be finished as soon as possible.

I understand that overtime pay is given only when requested by a manager beforehand, but given the exigencies of the moment, I had to make a judgment call and work out of hours to ensure we was able to meet the deadline. I believe my effort and dedication to the task deserves additional compensation, and I am hopeful you will see fit to grant my request.

Thank you for considering my request. Please let me know if you need any further information or have any questions.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Request for Overtime Pay for Working on Weekends

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request overtime pay due to the additional hours I worked over the weekend. As you remember, there was an urgent project that required me to work during my off-hours to help the team complete it on time.

While I am happy to help the team and contribute to the project’s success, I believe I deserve additional compensation for my effort and dedication. I understand that any overtime pay is subject to approval, and I hope you can consider my request for the work done on the weekends.

Thank you for your time and consideration, and please let me know if you have any questions or need further information regarding my request.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Request for Overtime Pay for Working on State Holidays

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to ask for overtime pay for my extra hours of work during the recent state holiday. We had a special project that needed to be completed urgently, and it required me to work outside of my regular hours.

I understand that state holidays are supposed to be taken as leave days and compensated as such. However, given the urgency and importance of the task at hand, I had no choice but to work beyond my hour. I believe my effort and dedication deserve additional compensation, thank you for understanding.

Thank you for considering my request, and please let me know if you need further information or have any questions.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Request for Overtime Pay for Working at Night Shift

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am requesting overtime pay for the extra hours I worked on the recent night shift. Working during night hours involves personal sacrifice and risks to my health, and I believe this deserves additional compensation.

While I am well aware of the night shift allowance, my extra hours of work on that shift were outside the standard night shift hours. I am, therefore, requesting to be paid for the extra hours I spent at work on that night shift. I believe my effort and dedication are worth the compensation provided for overtime work.

Thank you for considering my request, and please let me know if you have any questions or need further information.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Request for Overtime Pay for Working on urgent projects

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to request overtime pay for the extra hours I worked on the recent emergency project. As you know, urgent projects require more attention, time, and effort. It involved multiple departments and required me to work additional hours above my regular work schedule.

I am hoping you can see the extra effort I put into the project, and my commitment to the success of our organization. I am requesting additional compensation for my effort and dedication in working extra hours to ensure we met the obligations of our clients.

Thank you for considering my request, and please let me know if you need any further information or have any questions.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Tips on How to Ask for Overtime Pay via Email

Asking for overtime pay via email can be a nerve-wracking task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some tips to help ensure that you get paid for the extra hours you’ve worked:

  • Be Specific: In your email, it’s crucial to include specific details about the overtime hours you’ve worked. Include the date, time you started and ended, and how many hours you’ve accumulated. This will help your employer understand exactly how much overtime pay you’re requesting and avoid confusion in the future.
  • Clarify Policies: Some companies have strict guidelines on overtime pay. Before sending the email, clarify the guidelines with your HR department to avoid any confusion about how overtime pay works in your organization.
  • Be Professional: Even though you’re requesting additional pay, it’s important to maintain a professional tone. Use respectful language and avoid demanding or threatening language.
  • Explain the Benefits: Some employers may be reluctant to pay for overtime hours. In the email, explain how your role benefits the company and why the additional hours were necessary to complete the project or task at hand.
  • Offer Alternatives: If your employer is unable to provide overtime pay, offer other alternatives, such as additional time off or other compensation for your work.
  • Follow Up: If you don’t receive a response to your email or your employer denies your request, politely follow up on the email. Ask for feedback on your request and if there are any steps you can take in the future to ensure that your overtime hours are compensated

By following these tips, you can confidently send a request for overtime pay via email without fear of being ignored or denied. Remember to remain professional, clear, and respectful of your employer while advocating for the pay you rightfully deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Ask for Overtime Pay Email


What is overtime pay?

Overtime pay is an extra amount of money paid to an employee for working beyond their regular working hours or for working on a holiday.

Do I have to be paid overtime?

Yes, if you are a non-exempt employee and work beyond your regular hours, you are entitled to be paid overtime pay in accordance with the law.

How should I ask for overtime pay in an email?

You can politely ask your employer for overtime pay in an email, providing details of the work you did, the hours worked, and the rate of pay you agreed to.

What should I do if my employer refuses to pay overtime?

If your employer refuses to pay your overtime pay, you can contact the Department of Labor or consult with an employment lawyer for further advice.

Can I ask for overtime pay if I work from home or remotely?

Yes, if you work from home or remotely and work beyond your regular hours, you are entitled to be paid overtime pay as per the law.

What if I forget to log my overtime hours?

You should make every effort to log your overtime hours and inform your supervisor as soon as possible. If you forget to log your overtime hours, you may not be paid for them.

Can I negotiate my overtime rate?

Yes, if you are an hourly employee, you can negotiate your overtime rate with your employer to some extent. However, if you are salaried, you may not be able to negotiate your overtime rate.

Should I consult my union representative before asking for overtime pay?

It is always a good idea to consult your union representative if you are unsure about your rights or how to ask for overtime pay. They are there to help and support you in these matters.

Can I ask for overtime pay retroactively?

Yes, you can ask for overtime pay retroactively if you have worked more hours than your regular hours in the past. However, you should be aware that your employer may have specific policies about retroactive pay.

That’s All Folks!

And there you have it folks! Hopefully, you’re now confident in asking for overtime pay through email. Remember, always remain polite, clear, and concise in your message. If you have any questions or other suggestions for future articles, don’t hesitate to drop us a line. Thanks for reading, and see you later!