What is the difference between EDT and UTC?
EDT is 4 hours behind UTC. EDT (Eastern Daylight Time) is used during Daylight Saving Time in the Eastern time zone, typically from March to November.
UTC time
EDT
Eastern Daylight Time
6 Jan 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does this area observe DST?
EDT itself is the daylight saving time version of EST. EDT is observed from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November, when the region switches back to EST (Eastern Standard Time, UTC-5:00).
Which major cities follow this pattern?
Cities such as New York, Washington D.C., Miami, Atlanta, Toronto, and Montreal follow EDT during the summer months.
What areas share the same hours?
Parts of the eastern United States (New York, Florida, Georgia, and most of the East Coast), Canada (Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic provinces), and parts of the Caribbean observe EDT during daylight saving time.
How does this compare with EST?
EDT is 1 hour ahead of EST. EDT (UTC-4:00) is used during summer months, while EST (UTC-5:00) is used during winter months.
Why does this area observe DST?
Daylight saving time is observed to make better use of daylight during the longer summer days, potentially reducing energy consumption and allowing for more evening activities.
How did this system get established?
EDT was established as part of the daylight saving time system adopted in the United States and Canada, beginning in the early 20th century to conserve energy during World War I.
What are the typical work hours here?
Work hours in areas following EDT are generally from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a lunch break in the middle of the day.
What is the economic importance of this area?
The Eastern region includes major economic hubs like New York (finance), Washington D.C. (government), and Toronto (finance and technology), making it one of the most economically significant regions in North America.