Massachusetts: meal break laws
Whether your state requires employers to give adult workers a meal break, how long, and when.
Checked on official source| Meal break rule | 30 minutes for work over 6 hours |
|---|---|
| Who it covers | Most employers |
Federal law does not require meal breaks, but short breaks of 5 to 20 minutes that an employer gives must be paid. Separate rules often apply to workers under 18.
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in Massachusetts.
Also for Massachusetts: Workers' comp deadlines in Massachusetts · Workers' comp benefits in Massachusetts · Paid leave programs in Massachusetts · Final paycheck rules in Massachusetts · Minimum wage in Massachusetts · Unemployment benefits in Massachusetts · Tipped minimum wage in Massachusetts · Payday frequency in Massachusetts · Rest break laws in Massachusetts
How we checked this
Rules come from the U.S. Department of Labor's table of state meal period requirements for adult private-sector workers. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site Single detailed source one detailed table built from statutes or official data Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.