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Meal and Rest Break Laws in New York

Whether New York law requires meal or rest breaks for adult employees.

Short answer: All employees must get time off for meals after working a certain number of hours; in general, at least 30 minutes of unpaid time off when working more than 6 hours. New York State Department of Labor, Day of Rest and Meal Periods; Labor Law §162

Meal and rest breaksAll employees must get time off for meals after working a certain number of hours; in general, at least 30 minutes of unpaid time off when working more than 6 hours. Details depend on shift times under the Department's Meal Period Guidelines. No separate rest-break rule.

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FAQ

Are breaks required by law in New York?
All employees must get time off for meals after working a certain number of hours; in general, at least 30 minutes of unpaid time off when working more than 6 hours. Details depend on shift times under the Department's Meal Period Guidelines. No separate rest-break rule.

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.