Indiana Meal and Rest Break Laws

Although federal law does not mandate the provision of meal and rest breaks, some states have enacted different legislation. Learn more about the meal and rest break requirements in Indiana.

Do Indiana Break Laws Differ from Federal Break Laws?

Yes, the break laws in Indiana differ from federal break laws. Employers must provide meal breaks to specific employees.

Indiana Meal Break Laws

Employers must provide meal breaks to minor employees (under age 18) who work 6+ consecutive hours. For adult employees, employers must adhere to the regulations outlined in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) when providing meal or rest breaks.

Indiana Break Laws for Minors

Any minor employee under the age of 18 must receive one or two rest periods totaling 30 minutes when working 6+ consecutive hours.

Indiana Break Laws for Mothers

Under federal law, nursing mothers in Indiana are required to be given reasonable time during work to express breast milk in a private place that is not a restroom. It must be free from intrusion and view. Employers with fewer than 50 employees are exempt from this requirement if it would cause undue hardship.

Indiana Day of Rest Laws

There is no day of rest law in effect in Indiana.

Indiana Break Room Requirements

Indiana employers are not required to provide a break room.

Indiana Penalties for Breaking Rest and Break Laws

Violating the federal legislation regarding the provision of meal and rest breaks subjects an employer to criminal prosecution and a fine. Employees may also file legal suits against employers, subjecting them to paying back wages.

Common Indiana Break Law FAQs

How early can I take my lunch break in Indiana?

A minor employee may take their lunch break at any point during a shift lasting 6 or more consecutive hours. It can be a single 30-minute break or two breaks that add up to 30 minutes.

How many breaks in a 6-hour shift in Indiana?

Minor employees would receive one or two breaks totaling 30 minutes during a 6-hour shift. No requirement is in place for adult employees.

How many breaks in an 8-hour shift in Indiana?

Minor employees would receive one or two breaks totaling 30 minutes during an 8-hour shift. No requirement is in place for adult employees.

How many breaks in a 12-hour shift in Indiana?

Minor employees would receive one or two breaks totaling 30 minutes during a 12-hour shift. No requirement is in place for adult employees.

Is it legal to work 7 days straight in Indiana?

Yes, it is legal to work 7 days straight in Indiana.

Can I waive my lunch break in Indiana?

Since there is no requirement to provide a lunch break, employers may choose not to offer them to employees. Each individual company policy dictates whether an employee can waive a provided meal break.

Indiana Department of Labor