Pay · HR glossary

Shift Allowance

A shift allowance is additional pay associated with working specified shifts or hours under law, contract or employer policy. It may recognise night work, inconvenience or particular operating arrangements.

Example

An employee assigned to an eligible evening shift receives the allowance stated in the employer's applicable pay arrangements.

What to keep in mind

A shift allowance is not automatically overtime pay. Explain qualifying shifts, calculation and treatment of partial periods, and verify whether legal requirements apply separately from the employer's policy.

Further reading

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