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Setting standard unpaid breaks

Sean Wyse By Sean Wyse Updated 12 January 2026 3 min read
Permission level: All Users Device: Web Browser

Setting unpaid break rules by shift length

In this article, we'll guide you on how to set unpaid break rules based on the length of a shift. These break rules can be configured as standard settings on your account, so they'll apply automatically whenever you create a shift. This ensures consistency across shifts and streamlines scheduling for your team.

1. Access roster settings

This section explains how to find the Roster Settings, where you can manage the unpaid break rules. Following these steps will help you locate the specific settings to set standard unpaid breaks.

1.1 Go to roster settings

Access the Settings section in the top menu.

Select Roster from the dropdown.

Screenshot of RosterElf settings menu with the Roster option selected

This section shows where to find the Unpaid Breaks tab, which allows you to set custom rules for breaks based on the duration of each shift.

2.1 Select the unpaid breaks tab

Click on the Unpaid Breaks tab within Roster Settings.

Screenshot showing the Unpaid Breaks tab in RosterElf's Roster Settings

3. Customise unpaid breaks by shift length

Here, you'll learn how to customise unpaid breaks by specific shift lengths. By setting these up, breaks will be automatically applied based on the scheduled shift time.

3.1 Define unpaid break durations

Set unpaid breaks for shifts based on length. For example:

  • Shifts of 5-6 hours: 30-minute unpaid break
  • Shifts of 6-7 hours: 30-minute unpaid break
  • Shifts of 7-8 hours: 60-minute unpaid break
  • Shifts of 8-9 hours: 60-minute unpaid break
  • Shifts of 10-11 hours: 60-minute unpaid break
  • Shifts of 11-12 hours: 60-minute unpaid break
  • Shifts of 12+ hours: 60-minute unpaid break
Screenshot showcasing custom unpaid break durations based on shift length

Frequently asked questions

1. How do I access Roster Settings for unpaid breaks?

To access Roster Settings, go to the Settings section in the top menu, then select Roster Settings from the dropdown. This is where you can manage your unpaid break rules.

2. Where can I find the Unpaid Breaks tab?

Within Roster Settings, click on the Unpaid Breaks tab. This section allows you to set customised unpaid break rules based on shift durations.

3. Can I set different unpaid break times for varying shift lengths?

Yes, you can customise unpaid breaks for each shift length. For example, set a 30-minute break for shifts of 5-6 hours and a 60-minute break for shifts of 7 hours or more.

4. How do unpaid breaks apply to shifts automatically?

Once set, unpaid break rules are applied automatically based on the shift length whenever you create a new shift, ensuring consistent break times across schedules.

5. What are the default unpaid break settings based on shift length?

Standard unpaid breaks might look like this: 5-6 hours: 30 minutes, 6-7 hours: 30 minutes, 7-8 hours: 60 minutes, 8-9 hours: 60 minutes, 10+ hours: 60 minutes.

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