Pennsylvania Meal Break Laws: Are Lunch Breaks Required?

Pennsylvania’s rules for adult meal breaks are limited, but federal law may still protect certain break time and pay. Here’s what to know.

Pennsylvania vs. Federal Rules

• Pennsylvania: Limited state-specific adult meal break requirements; minors protected.
• FLSA: Short breaks are paid; true 30+ minute meal periods are generally unpaid if relieved of duty.

Off-the-Clock Risks

• Interrupted meal periods should generally be paid if you had to work.
• Keep personal notes if company records are inaccurate.

Action Steps (Checklist)

• Track missed breaks and any off-the-clock time
• Raise concerns in writing and retain copies
• Consider a wage claim if unpaid work occurred

Related

• Pennsylvania Hub: /pennsylvania/
• Templates: Sample Employment Complaint Letters

Sources

• U.S. DOL WHD – https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd
• Pennsylvania DLI – https://www.dli.pa.gov