How to Convert Minutes to Decimals for ADP: The Complete Guide
Key Takeaways
- ADP uses "Base 100" decimals, not standard "Base 60" clock time.
- The Formula: Divide minutes by 60 to find the correct decimal (e.g., 30 ÷ 60 = .50).
- Entering "8.30" for 8 hours 30 mins results in underpayment. The correct entry is 8.50.
Table of Contents
One of the most frustrating errors in payroll happens when you try to enter "8:30" into ADP, and the system rejects it—or worse, calculates it as 8.3 hours.
The "Base 100" Problem
We are used to telling time in Base 60 (60 minutes = 1 hour). However, financial software like ADP Workforce Now, Paychex, and QuickBooks operates in Base 100 (100 cents = 1 dollar).
You cannot mix these two systems. It is like trying to pay for a $0.50 item with 30 cents.
The Conversion Formula
To convert any minute value to an ADP-safe decimal, simply divide the minutes by 60.
The Golden Formula
Minutes ÷ 60 = Decimal
Example: An employee works 45 minutes.
- 45 ÷ 60 = 0.75
- Enter .75 into ADP.
Common ADP Conversions
Here are the standard conversions used by most HR managers:
| Minutes (Clock) | ADP Decimal |
|---|---|
| 5 Minutes | .08 |
| 10 Minutes | .17 |
| 15 Minutes | .25 |
| 20 Minutes | .33 |
| 30 Minutes | .50 |
| 45 Minutes | .75 |
Why "8.30" is Dangerous
If you mistakenly enter "8.30" for someone who worked 8 hours and 30 minutes, you are actually paying them for 8 hours and 18 minutes.
Why? Because 0.30 of an hour is only 18 minutes (0.30 x 60 = 18).
This means you are underpaying that employee by 12 minutes every single shift. Over a year, this can result in a significant wage theft liability.
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