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Semi-Monthly PTO Accrual Calculator

Based on the default pattern below, a typical entitlement is 5 hours. Adjust the inputs for your exact figure.

15 days

Your entitlement

5 hours

How it's worked out

(15 PTO days × 8 hours/day) ÷ 24 pay periods = 5 hours/period

Audit note

Most US employers set an accrual cap or carryover limit — you stop banking PTO once you hit it. Some states restrict use-it-or-lose-it forfeiture of accrued PTO, so check your state's rules and your policy.

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How this calculation works

US PTO usually accrues each pay period rather than landing as a lump sum. Divide the annual PTO (in hours) by the number of pay periods to see how much time off you bank every cycle.

Worked example

(15 PTO days × 8 hours/day) ÷ 24 pay periods = 5 hours/period

Frequently asked questions

How much PTO do I accrue semi-monthly?
Divide your annual PTO hours by 24 pay periods. On 15 days (120 hours) at 8 hours a day, that's 5 hours of PTO per paycheck.
What's the difference from bi-weekly?
Semi-monthly pays twice a month — 24 checks a year, usually on fixed dates like the 15th and last day. Bi-weekly pays every two weeks, giving 26 checks. Fewer periods means slightly more PTO per check.
Does the day I'm hired affect my first accrual?
Often yes. Many employers prorate your first semi-monthly accrual based on how much of that pay period you worked, then accrue in full from the next period.