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UK Recruitment Glossary

TOIL (Time Off In Lieu)

Alex By Alex · 12-year UK recruiter · Updated April 2026

In recruiter context

Common in UK roles where overtime isn't paid — most professional and salaried roles. TOIL agreements should be in writing to be enforceable; verbal TOIL agreements often evaporate. Standard rate is hour-for-hour (work an extra hour, take an extra hour off), but some agreements provide enhanced TOIL (e.g., 1.5 hours TOIL per overtime hour for evening work). UK candidates working unpaid overtime should specifically ask about TOIL — many employers don't volunteer it but will agree if asked. Get any TOIL accumulated in writing on your payslip or HR system, otherwise it tends to evaporate over time.

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