If a worker is employed at a private home that is inaccessible by public transportation and not close to stores, etc. so that the worker cannot leave the home during the day for his/her own purposes, (e.g., to run errands or shop), must all of the worker’s work day be compensated?

The FLSA does not require employees to have personal time to run errands, shop, etc. In many cases, employees are granted a meal break of at least 30 minutes. If the 30 or more minutes is free and clear of duties, it is not compensable time, even in situations where the worker is not able to leave the employer’s premises. If the time is interrupted, then it is compensable.

October 2018

Tags: FLSA Compliance