How to use this calculator
- Enter the documented balance and policy assumptions.
- Confirm whether zero limits should represent unlimited treatment in this planning model.
- Calculate and inspect each policy component separately.
- Verify the result against the governing handbook, agreement or official rule.
Input guide
Starting PTO balance
Enter the documented starting pto balance used for this scenario.
PTO earned during period
Enter the documented pto earned during period used for this scenario.
Planned PTO use
Enter the documented planned pto use used for this scenario.
Hourly rate
Enter the documented hourly rate used for this scenario.
Policy A balance cap
Enter the documented policy a balance cap used for this scenario.
Policy A carryover limit
Enter the documented policy a carryover limit used for this scenario.
Policy A payout percentage
Enter the documented policy a payout percentage used for this scenario.
Policy B balance cap
Enter the documented policy b balance cap used for this scenario.
Policy B carryover limit
Enter the documented policy b carryover limit used for this scenario.
Policy B payout percentage
Enter the documented policy b payout percentage used for this scenario.
How this calculator works
For each policy: apply the balance cap, subtract planned use, apply the carryover limit, then apply the entered payout percentage to hours not carried.
Worked example
A policy carrying 40 hours can be compared with one carrying 80 hours while holding accrual, planned use and hourly rate constant.
How to interpret the result
Compare the components rather than only the final number. A policy with more carryover may still differ materially in accrual, caps, access, expiration, payout or eligibility.
Rounding policy
Policy comparison
Hours and percentages are rounded to two decimals; money is rounded to the nearest cent.
Assumptions and limitations
- A zero cap or carryover limit is treated as unlimited in this planning model.
- Both policies use the same starting balance, accrual, planned use and hourly rate.
Frequently asked questions
Can this compare job offers?
Yes, as a planning aid, provided you enter the actual documented PTO terms for each offer.
Does a higher carryover always mean a better policy?
Not necessarily. Accrual, caps, eligibility, payout, scheduling access and expiration rules all matter.
When should I recalculate with the PTO Policy Comparison Calculator?
Recalculate when balances, accrual, planned usage, carryover limits, caps, payout terms or hourly rates change.
Why does the PTO Policy Comparison Calculator separate policy inputs?
Accrual, balance caps, carryover, forfeiture, payout and eligibility are different policy concepts and should not be collapsed into one percentage.