Which exemption category is commonly used to avoid overtime under the FLSA?

• A. Non-exempt employees
• B. Part-time workers
• C. Independent contractors
• D. Exempt employees

Answer: (D)

Overtime under the FLSA applies to non-exempt workers, meaning most employees must be paid time-and-a-half after 40 hours in a workweek. Some workers are not eligible for overtime because they meet specific duties and salary criteria, which makes them exempt. This exemption category includes roles like executive, administrative, professional, outside sales, and certain computer-related positions. When a worker truly meets these criteria, they are classified as exempt and do not receive overtime pay. Employers sometimes rely on this exemption to manage labor costs, but the classification must reflect actual duties and pay to avoid penalties for misclassification.