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Ontario Holiday Pay Calculation

Reviewed by Calculator Editorial Team

Ontario holiday pay is a legal requirement for most employees. This calculator helps you determine the correct holiday pay entitlement based on your regular wages and the number of holiday pay periods.

How to Calculate Ontario Holiday Pay

Under Ontario's Employment Standards Act, most employees are entitled to holiday pay. The calculation depends on your regular wages and the number of holiday pay periods.

Key Requirements

  • Employees must receive holiday pay for each day they would normally work during the holiday period
  • The pay must be at least equal to their regular wages for those days
  • Employers must provide at least 10 paid holidays per year

Calculation Steps

  1. Determine your regular hourly or daily wage
  2. Calculate the total hours or days you would normally work during the holiday period
  3. Multiply your regular wage by the number of hours/days to get the holiday pay amount

Note: The exact calculation may vary based on your employment contract and collective agreement. Always check your specific employment terms for any additional requirements.

Holiday Pay Formula

The basic formula for calculating Ontario holiday pay is:

Holiday Pay = (Regular Wage × Number of Holiday Days) + (Overtime Wage × Number of Overtime Holiday Days)

Where:

  • Regular Wage = Your normal hourly or daily wage
  • Number of Holiday Days = Days you would normally work during the holiday period
  • Overtime Wage = Your overtime rate (if applicable)
  • Number of Overtime Holiday Days = Days worked beyond regular hours during the holiday period

Assumptions

  • Standard work week is 40 hours (5 days)
  • Overtime is calculated at 1.5 times the regular wage
  • Holiday pay must be at least equal to regular wages for those days

Worked Examples

Example 1: Full-time Employee

John works 40 hours per week at $20/hour. He works 5 days during the holiday period.

Holiday Pay = (20 × 5) + (20 × 1.5 × 0) = $100

Example 2: Part-time Employee with Overtime

Sarah works 30 hours per week at $18/hour. She works 5 days during the holiday period, including 2 days of overtime.

Holiday Pay = (18 × 3) + (18 × 1.5 × 2) = $54 + $54 = $108

FAQ

Who is entitled to Ontario holiday pay?

Most employees in Ontario are entitled to holiday pay under the Employment Standards Act. This includes full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees, as well as employees covered by a collective agreement.

How many holidays are employees entitled to?

Employees are entitled to at least 10 paid holidays per year. The exact number may vary based on your employment contract or collective agreement.

What if an employee doesn't work during the holiday period?

If an employee doesn't work during the holiday period, they are still entitled to holiday pay. The pay must be provided at a time that is convenient for the employee.

Can holiday pay be paid in lieu of time off?

Yes, holiday pay can be paid in lieu of time off, but the employee must be given the choice between taking time off or receiving the pay.