Category: Tax Forms

How to Figure Out Overtime Pay From Your Paystub

If you worked more than 40 hours in a week, your overtime pay should be at least 1.5× your regular hourly rate for those extra hours.

Here’s the formula:

Overtime Pay = (Hourly Rate × 1.5) × Overtime Hours

Here’s an example:

You make $20/hour and worked 45 hours this week.
Your overtime pay = ($20 × 1.5) × 5 = $150
So your total pay = (40 × $20) + $150 = $950.

Want to double-check your numbers? Use our paystub calculator guide to see your regular and overtime pay side by side.

How to Check Your Paystub for Overtime

1) Find your hourly rate.
It’s usually listed under “Rate” or “Regular Pay.”

2) Look for “OT” or “Overtime.”
Your paystub may label it as OT Hours or OT Earnings.

3) Count the hours.
Anything above 40 in a week is overtime (for most U.S. workers).

4) Do the quick math.
Multiply your overtime hours by 1.5× your regular rate.
Compare that to what’s listed. It should match or be higher.

Overtime Pay Formula Recap

• Regular Pay: Hourly Rate × 40
• Overtime Pay: Hourly Rate × 1.5 × (Hours – 40)
• Total Pay: Regular Pay + Overtime Pay

Ready to Dive Deeper Into Your Overtime Pay?

Now that you know how to spot and calculate overtime on your paystub, you’re already ahead of most employees when it comes to understanding your paycheck. But if you want a step-by-step breakdown with advanced examples and extra tips, check out our full guide:

👉 How to Calculate Overtime Pay Using Your Paystub

It covers everything — from different pay structures and exemptions to state-specific rules — so you can be 100% sure you’re getting every dollar you’ve earned. And remember — you can also generate a professional paystub that clearly displays your regular and overtime pay using FormPros. It’s quick, accurate, and ready to download in minutes.

Create a Paystub Now

---

FAQs

• What if I’m salaried — do I still get overtime?
  It depends. Some salaried workers qualify if they earn under a certain amount or don’t meet “exempt” job duties. Check your classification or ask HR.
• Is overtime always 1.5× pay?
  Usually, yes — but some states (like California) require 2× pay after 12 hours in a single day.
• Does PTO count toward overtime?
  No. Paid time off, holidays, and sick leave don’t count toward your 40 working hours.
• Can my employer average hours over two weeks?
  Not unless you’re in a specific industry (like healthcare). Most workers must be paid overtime for each week separately.
• What if my overtime pay looks wrong?
  Double-check your math, then talk to HR or payroll. If it’s still off, you can file a complaint with your state labor department.

---

Can You File Taxes with Just Your Last Paystub?

Sometimes — but it’s risky. You can technically file taxes using your final paystub, but it’s not recommended. The IRS prefers an official W2, and filing without one can cause delays, errors, or even rejections.

When It’s Possible

You may be able to file taxes with your last paystub if your employer hasn’t sent your W2 yet and you need to file early. The key is that your paystub must show:

• Total wages for the year (YTD amount)
• Withholding for federal and state taxes
• Social Security and Medicare contributions

Common Situations

• You changed jobs late in the year
• Your employer went out of business
• You moved and haven’t received your W2

Why a W2 is Safer

Your W2 is an official IRS document. It’s verified by your employer and automatically sent to the IRS — meaning it matches their records. Filing with your paystub means:

1) You’re estimating instead of reporting verified numbers.

2) A small mistake could trigger an IRS correction or audit.

3) Your refund could be delayed while your return is verified.

Bottom line: The W2 ensures your return matches what the IRS already has on file.

What To Do Instead

If your W2 hasn’t arrived yet, the safest move is to wait until after January 31st, when employers are required to send them out. Filing with the official form ensures your numbers match what the IRS already has on file. You can also contact your employer or payroll provider to get a copy of your W2 if it was lost or never delivered.

If your W2 never shows up, you can still move forward using Form 4852, a substitute W2 the IRS accepts. This form relies on your last paystub to estimate your total earnings and tax withholdings.

For a faster and simpler option, FormPros offers both a W2 generator and a paystub generator — so you can create whichever form you have the information for. Either way, you’ll have the right document ready to go in minutes.

---

FAQs

• Can I file before I get my W2?
  Technically yes, but the IRS may reject your return if your numbers don’t match their records. Waiting is safer.
• What happens if I file with a paystub and get my W2 later?
  If the amounts differ, you’ll need to file an amended return (Form 1040-X).
• Can I use my paystub for a refund estimate?
  Yes — it’s great for estimating your refund, not filing.
• What if my employer refuses to give me a W2?
  Contact the IRS after February 14th; they can request it directly from your employer.
• Is Form 4852 the same as a W2?
  No, but it’s an official substitute form that’s acceptable when your W2 is missing.

---

W-2 Boxes Explained: What Each One Means

Every box on your W-2 tells the IRS something specific about your income or taxes. It’s not random — and once you know what each one means, your tax form actually makes sense.

Boxes 1-14 in Plain English

Don’t let the boxes scare you — each one tells part of your tax story. Here’s what they all mean:

Box 1: Wages, tips, other pay

👉 The total taxable income you earned.
Example: You made $50,000 — this number shows $50,000.

Box 2: Federal income tax withheld

👉 How much federal tax your employer already took out.
Example: $4,500 withheld = you’ve prepaid $4,500 in taxes.

Box 3: Social Security wages

👉 The income that’s subject to Social Security tax (often same as Box 1, sometimes not).
Example: If you contributed to a 401(k), this might be lower than Box 1.

Box 4: Social Security tax withheld

👉 What you paid toward Social Security — officially called OASDI (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) — at 6.2% of Box 3.
Example: $3,000 withheld on $48,000 of Social Security wages.

Box 5: Medicare wages and tips

👉 Income subject to Medicare tax — usually same as Box 1.
Example: $50,000 of income goes here.

Box 6: Medicare tax withheld

👉 What you paid toward Medicare (1.45% of Box 5). Together with Social Security (Boxes 3–4), this makes up your FICA taxes — short for the Federal Insurance Contributions Act.
Example: $725 withheld.

Box 7: Social Security tips

👉 Tips you reported to your employer that count for Social Security.
Example: $2,000 in tips = $2,000 here.

Box 8: Allocated tips

👉 Tips your employer assigned to you (often in restaurants).
Example: Employer added $500 here = report it on your return.

Box 9: (Blank)

👉 Used to have tax credits — now just ignore it.

Box 10: Dependent care benefits

👉 Employer-paid childcare help.
Example: $2,000 toward daycare through your job = $2,000 here.

Box 11: Nonqualified plans

👉 Money from certain retirement plans that aren’t standard 401(k)s.
Example: You got $1,200 from a deferred comp plan.

Box 12: Special codes

👉 Shows extra benefits like 401(k) contributions or adoption aid — each with a letter code.
Example: Code D = $3,000 into your 401(k).

Box 13: Checkboxes

👉 Indicates things like “Statutory Employee,” “Retirement Plan,” or “Third-Party Sick Pay.”

Box 14: Other

👉 Miscellaneous items your employer wants to note (e.g., union dues, state disability).
Example: “CA SDI $500.”

Make W-2s the Easy Way

Filling out a W-2 doesn’t have to be confusing. You can learn more in our comprehensive W2 guide, and when you’re ready you can create accurate, IRS-compliant W-2 forms in minutes — every box filled in correctly, automatically. It’s fast, simple, and ready to print or e-file today.

Create a W-2 Now

---

FAQs

• Why are my Box 1 and Box 3 amounts different?
  Because pre-tax deductions (like a 401(k)) lower Box 1 but not Box 3.
• What do the codes in Box 12 mean?

  Each letter = a benefit type. For example:

  • D = 401(k)
  • DD = health insurance cost
  • W = HSA contributions
• Do I need to fill these boxes myself?
  No — your employer does. You just use the info for your tax return.
• Why does Box 9 look empty?
  It’s obsolete — no need to worry about it.
• Where can I get a blank W-2 form?
  You can generate one directly using the FormPros W2 generator.

---

W-4 vs. W-2: The Two Forms Everyone Mixes Up

One you fill out, one you receive.

You fill out a W-4 when you start a job.
You receive a W-2 every year at tax time.

They’re two sides of the same paycheck — the W-4 tells your employer how much to withhold, and the W-2 shows what actually happened.

Quick Answer

The W4 is what you give your employer to set your tax withholdings.
The W2 is what your employer gives you after the year ends to report what they withheld.

W4 = instructions.
W2 = results.

How They Work Together

When you start a new job (or want to change your withholdings), you fill out a W-4. It tells your employer:

• How many dependents you have
• Whether you want extra taxes taken out
• Your filing status (single, married, etc.)

At the end of the year, your employer uses those instructions to create your W-2. That form shows:

• How much you earned
• How much was withheld for federal, state, Social Security, and Medicare taxes

Your W-2 is what you attach to your tax return — or upload into your e-file service — to report your income. Want the employer side of this process? Check out our guide: W-4 vs W-2 Forms: A Definitive Guide for Employers.

When Each Form Matters

Form	When You Use It	What It Does
W-4	When you’re hired or want to adjust withholdings	Tells your employer how much tax to withhold
W-2	After the year ends (usually by Jan 31st)	Reports how much was paid and withheld for taxes

Think of it this way:
📝 W4 = your tax plan
📄 W2 = your tax record

Get Your Withholdings Right

If you’re ready to take control of your taxes, the next step is simple. You can adjust your withholdings or generate your forms quickly using FormPros’ W4 Generator, which walks you through each step in minutes. Or, if you’d rather understand the process first, check out our guide on how to fill out a W4 — it breaks everything down in plain English so you can file with confidence.

---

FAQs

• What happens if I don’t fill out a W4?
  If you skip filling out a W4, your employer will by default withhold taxes at the highest rate — basically, as if you’re single with no dependents — and as a result, your paycheck will end up smaller.
• Do I need a new W4 every year?
  Not necessarily, but you’ll want to update it whenever something in your life changes — like getting a new job, getting married, having kids, picking up side income, or even qualifying for big deductions.
• Where do I find my W2?
  Your employer has to send it by January 31st, but in the meantime, you can also check your payroll portal — like ADP, Paychex, or Workday — to download it even sooner.
• Can I file my taxes without a W2?
  Yes, but you’ll need your last paystub and Form 4852 to estimate your earnings and withholdings.
• What if my W2 is wrong?
  Contact your employer’s payroll department for a corrected form (called a W-2C).

---

How to Get Your W-2 Without Going Through HR

You can usually get your W-2 online — through your payroll provider’s website, your employer’s self-service portal, or directly from the IRS.

Don’t panic if you can’t reach HR. There are easy, safe ways to access your tax form.

Check Your Online Payroll Portal

Most companies use payroll providers like:

Go to your provider’s login page, select “Find My Employer” or “Get My W-2,” and follow the prompts.
You’ll usually need:

• Your employer’s name or EIN (Employer Identification Number)
• The last four digits of your SSN
• Your email or employee ID

*Pro tip: Bookmark your provider’s login page — you’ll need it again next year.*

Try Your Employer’s Self-Service Portal

Many companies host W-2s inside their own HR or payroll systems. Look for links like “Employee Self Service,” “Payroll Documents,” or “Tax Forms.”

If your company uses an internal system (like UltiPro or Workday), log in with your regular credentials and look for:

• Documents → Tax Forms → W-2
• Payroll → View/Print W-2

Use the IRS “Get Transcript” Tool

If your employer’s system isn’t available or you’ve left the job:

1. Go to IRS.gov.
2. Choose “Get Transcript Online.”
3. Sign in or create an account.
4. Select “Wage and Income Transcript.”

This shows your W-2 data, which you can use to file your taxes.

Pro tip: If you’re missing W2 details, your paystubs can help verify income and deductions. Learn more in our guide on Paystubs for Tax Filing & IRS Audits: Why They Matter.

Order a Copy from the IRS by Mail

If online access doesn’t work:

1. Use Form 4506-T (Request for Transcript of Tax Return).
2. Check the box for “Form W-2.”
3. Mail it to the IRS address listed on the form.

It takes about 10 days to get a W2 copy.

Stay Safe While Accessing Your W-2

When you’re downloading or viewing your W-2 online, always use secure websites — look for “https://” in the address bar. Never share your Social Security number by email or text, since those methods aren’t encrypted. Avoid using public Wi-Fi when accessing or printing your tax forms, and always log out once you’re done. A few simple precautions can go a long way toward keeping your personal information safe.

What to Do If You Still Can’t Find Your W-2

If none of these options work — maybe your old employer shut down, or your payroll portal isn’t available — don’t worry. You can still get what you need. FormPros lets you generate a W-2 instantly, using your own pay information. It’s fast, accurate, and IRS-compliant, so you can file your taxes without waiting on HR.

Create a W-2 Now

---

FAQs

• How can I get my W2 without contacting HR?
  You can usually access your W2 through your payroll provider’s website (like ADP, Paychex, or Workday), your employer’s self-service portal, or by requesting a copy directly from the IRS. These options work even if HR isn’t available.
• Can I get my W2 online if I no longer work for the company?
  Yes. Former employees can often log in to their old payroll account to download past W2s. If access has expired, use the IRS “Get Transcript” tool to view your W2 information or request a mailed copy.
• What if my employer never sent me a W2?
  If you don’t receive your W2 by mid-February, contact the IRS at 1-800-829-1040. They’ll reach out to your employer and help you get the information needed to file your taxes on time.
• Is it safe to download my W2 online?
  Yes — as long as you use secure sites (look for “https://”) and avoid public Wi-Fi. Always log out after viewing or printing your W2, and never email your Social Security number.
• Can I create a W2 myself if I can’t get it from my employer?
  You can generate a W2 using FormPros, which creates an accurate, IRS-compliant form based on your pay information. It’s a quick and legal way to file your taxes when you can’t get your original W2.

---

When You’ll Get Your W-2 (and what to do if it’s missing)

The short answer is employers must send out W2 forms by January 31st each year. If you didn’t get a copy of your W-2 by mid-February, it’s time to take action.

What to Expect

Your employer has until January 31st to mail or make your W-2 available online. That means most people receive it in early February.

The W2 shows what you earned and how much tax was withheld — and you’ll need it to file your return accurately.

If you’re wondering whether you should even be expecting a W-2, it depends on how you were paid.

— Employees receive a W2 — it reports wages and taxes withheld by your employer.
— Independent contractors get a 1099, which shows income paid without tax withholding.

If you worked multiple jobs or side gigs, you might receive both forms. Check out our guide on W-2 vs 1099 to learn how each one affects your tax filing and deductions.

What to Do If Your W2 is Late

If the calendar flips past February 14th and there’s still no sign of your form, here’s what to do:

1. Ask your employer or HR first.
   Sometimes it’s just a mailing delay or an email that went to spam.
2. Check your online payroll account.
   Many companies post W-2s on their employee portal.
3. Still nothing? Use your last paystub.
   You can estimate your wages and withholdings from it.
4. File with Form 4852.
   This IRS form acts as a substitute W2 when your employer doesn’t provide one. You’ll enter the same info from your final paystub.

Why the W-2 Might Be Missing

A few common reasons:

• You moved and didn’t update your address.
• Your company changed payroll providers.
• You worked for a business that closed.
• The form was mailed but got lost.

File Confidently

If your W2 is missing after mid-February, don’t panic — reach out, check online, or use Form 4852 to stay on schedule.

Don’t wait on a missing W-2 to hold up your tax return. Need help estimating your income first? FormPros also offers a paystub generator that lets you create a professional paystub using your last paycheck details — perfect for filling out Form 4852 confidently and correctly.

Create a W-2 Now

---

FAQs

• When should I expect my W2 to arrive?
  Usually by early February. Employers must send it by January 31st.
• Can I get my W2 online?
  Yes. Many payroll systems (like ADP or Paychex) let you download it digitally.
• How do I file taxes without a W2?
  Use Form 4852, based on your last paystub.
• Is my W2 the same as my paystub?
  No — the W2 summarizes your total earnings and taxes for the year, while paystubs show each paycheck’s details.
• Can I get in trouble for filing without a W2?
  No, as long as you use Form 4852 honestly with accurate information.

---

Biweekly vs. Semimonthly Pay: Why Your Paycheck Looks Different

It’s not your imagination — the math really does change. Biweekly and semimonthly pay schedules aren’t the same, and the difference can change how much hits your account each payday.

Quick Answer

If you’re paid biweekly (every two weeks), you get 26 paychecks a year.
If you’re paid semimonthly (twice a month), you get 24 paychecks a year.

That means your per-check amount will be smaller with biweekly pay, even if your annual salary stays exactly the same.

Why It Matters

The difference isn’t about your total salary — it’s about timing and budgeting.

Biweekly = 26 checks/year
→ Paid every two weeks (usually Fridays)
→ Two “extra” paychecks in months with three pay periods
→ Great for hourly workers or those budgeting by week

Semimonthly = 24 checks/year
→ Paid on set dates (like the 15th and 30th)
→ Easier for salary consistency and monthly bills
→ Great for salaried employees

Example:

Let’s say you earn $52,000/year.

Pay Frequency	Paychecks/Year	Gross per Paycheck
Biweekly	26	$2,000
Semimonthly	24	$2,166.67

Same salary — but a different feel on payday.

Pros and Cons

Take Control of Your Paychecks

Understanding biweekly vs. semimonthly pay is just the first step — now it’s time to see the real numbers. Whether you’re comparing job offers, budgeting smarter, or double-checking your pay, FormPros makes it easy.

With FormPros’ paystub generator, you can:

• Instantly see your take-home pay after taxes and deductions
• Compare biweekly and semimonthly paychecks side by side
• Generate professional paystubs in seconds for records, loans, or proof of income

Create a Paystub Now

---

FAQs

• Why is my biweekly paycheck smaller than my semimonthly one?
  Because you’re dividing the same annual salary into 26 checks instead of 24.
• Which schedule is better for budgeting?
  Biweekly works well for weekly or biweekly expenses. Semimonthly fits better if you pay monthly bills like rent or loans.
• Do taxes change between the two?
  The total tax for the year doesn’t change — only how it’s divided per paycheck.
• What happens if a payday lands on a weekend or holiday?
  You’ll usually get paid the business day before.
• Can I switch from semimonthly to biweekly pay?
  It depends on your employer’s payroll system — ask HR or payroll directly.

---

Gross vs. Net Pay: The Quick Way to Find Your Take-Home Pay

Your gross pay is what you earn. Your net pay is what you keep. That’s the short answer. Now, let’s unpack how to go from one to the other.

Gross Pay vs. Net Pay Explained

Gross pay = total money you earn before any deductions.
Net pay = what’s left after taxes, insurance, and other withholdings.

Example:

If you earn $5,000 a month (gross), and your deductions total $1,200, your net pay is $3,800 — that’s your actual paycheck.

Common Deductions (and What They Mean)

Here’s what usually comes out of your gross pay:

• Federal income tax: Based on your income bracket and W4 info.
• State income tax: Depends on where you live.
• OASDI (Social Security): 6.2% of your gross pay.
• Medicare: 1.45% of your gross pay.
• Health insurance premiums: If your employer offers coverage.
• Retirement contributions: Like 401(k) or pension plans.

👉 Tip: Check your paystub — each deduction is listed there.

Quick Way to Calculate Net Pay

Want to figure out your take-home pay fast? Check out our Gross-to-Net Pay Calculator Guide — it walks you through each step to calculate your net pay by hand. You’ll learn how to start with your gross pay, subtract deductions, and see what really hits your bank account.

The Easy Way to See Your Real Pay

Understanding the difference between gross and net pay helps you know exactly what you’re earning — and what you’re keeping.

If you want to see your deductions laid out clearly, FormPros’ paystub generator can help. It automatically creates accurate, professional paystubs that show your gross pay, deductions, and true take-home amount.

Create a Paystub Now

---

FAQs

• How do I find my OASDI on my paystub?
  Look under “Social Security” or “OASDI.” It’s usually 6.2% of your gross pay.
• Is OASDI refundable?
  No. It’s a federal tax that funds Social Security — not refundable.
• Why is my net pay different each paycheck?
  It can change if your hours, bonuses, or deductions (like insurance) change.
• What percentage of gross pay is net pay?
  Most people take home 70–80% of their gross pay after taxes.
• How can I increase my net pay?
  Adjust your W-4 withholding, increase pre-tax deductions, or reduce taxable benefits.

---

FICA vs. Medicare: What’s the Real Difference?

Both are payroll taxes — but they fund different things. FICA covers Social Security and Medicare. Medicare specifically funds healthcare for people 65+ (and some with disabilities). FICA is the law that makes both happen.

Understanding the FICA Umbrella

FICA stands for Federal Insurance Contributions Act. It’s a law requiring employers and employees to pay taxes that fund:

• Social Security (OASDI): Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance
• Medicare: Healthcare for retirees and some disabled individuals

Your paycheck has two separate deductions under FICA — one for each.

Medicare: The Healthcare Half

Medicare is part of FICA, but only one piece of it. It funds hospital and medical insurance for eligible Americans.

Tax	Who Pays?	Rate	What It Funds
Social Security (OASDI)	Employee + Employer	6.2% each (up to $168,600 in 2025)	Retirement, disability, and survivor benefits
Medicare	Employee + Employer	1.45% each (no income cap)	Health insurance for seniors and certain disabled people
Additional Medicare	Employees earning over $200,000	+0.9% (employee only)	Helps fund Medicare expansion

Total FICA rate: 7.65% for employees, matched by employers.

Who Actually Pays FICA?

Everyone with earned income in the U.S. — That includes employees, employers, and self-employed individuals (who pay both shares, 15.3%).

If you’re self-employed, it’s all reported through SECA (Self-Employment Contributions Act) instead of FICA, but it funds the same programs.

Example Paycheck:

Let’s say you earn $2,000 in a pay period:

• Social Security (6.2%): $124
• Medicare (1.45%): $29
  Total FICA withheld: $153

Your employer matches that $153.

Why It Matters

FICA = Social Security + Medicare
It’s the federal law that makes both programs possible — every paycheck funds your future retirement and healthcare benefits.

Medicare = Healthcare for 65+
It’s part of FICA but only covers medical costs.

Even though FICA includes Medicare, the IRS lists Medicare as its own line because it’s a separate fund with a different tax rate and no income cap.

*In other words: FICA is the umbrella — Medicare is one of the buckets underneath it.*

FICA and Medicare on Your Paystub

When it comes to FICA vs Medicare, think of them as partners, not rivals. FICA is the law that collects both the Social Security and Medicare taxes — the two major programs that help fund your future income and healthcare.

Every paystub you get shows these deductions side by side, quietly building your safety net for retirement and beyond. With FormPros, you can easily generate professional paystubs that clearly show your FICA and Medicare tax amounts — making them simple to read, verify, and keep on file whenever you need them.

Create a Paystub Now

---

FAQs

• How do I find my OASDI?
  It’s listed on your paystub or W-2 as “Social Security” or “OASDI”. Same thing.
• Is OASDI refundable?
  No. It’s not a regular tax — it’s a contribution toward your Social Security benefits.
• Why is there an “Additional Medicare Tax”?
  It applies only to high earners making over $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly).
• What’s the difference between FICA and SECA?
  FICA applies to employees. SECA applies to self-employed people who pay both the employee and employer shares.
• How much FICA tax do I pay total?
  7.65% of your gross wages (6.2% Social Security + 1.45% Medicare).

---

What OASDI Means on Your Paystub (and Why You Pay It)

OASDI is just the official name for Social Security tax.
It’s the part of your paycheck that helps fund retirement, disability, and survivor benefits for millions of Americans — including you one day.

What Is OASDI?

OASDI stands for Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance. It’s the formal name for the Social Security program, and it’s required by law.

Every paycheck, your employer withholds 6.2% of your wages for OASDI. They also pay another 6.2% on your behalf. Together, that’s 12.4% that goes straight into the Social Security trust funds managed by the U.S. Treasury.

Where Does the Money Go?

Your OASDI tax helps pay:

• Monthly retirement benefits for people who’ve worked and earned credits.
• Disability income if someone becomes unable to work long-term.
• Survivor benefits for the families of deceased workers.

Think of it as a shared safety net. You pay in while you’re working, and later, you or your family may receive benefits when you retire or need support.

How Is OASDI Calculated?

The math is simple:
6.2% of your gross pay up to the annual wage base limit.

For 2025, that limit is $168,600 — meaning income above that isn’t taxed for OASDI.

Example:

• If you earn $1,000 per week, your OASDI deduction is $62.
• Your employer pays another $62.

Why It Matters for Your Future

OASDI is your contribution to Social Security credits. You earn up to four credits per year, and most people need 40 credits (about 10 years of work) to qualify for retirement benefits.

When you retire, the amount you’ve paid in — along with your lifetime earnings — determines your monthly Social Security check.

Example: OASDI on a Paystub

Let’s say you earn $4,000 a month. Your paystub might show:

Line Item	Description	Amount
OASDI	Social Security Tax (6.2%)	$248.00
Medicare	Hospital Insurance (1.45%)	$58.00
Federal Tax	Based on W-4	Varies

If you’ve ever glanced at your paystub and felt lost in the alphabet soup of deductions, you’re not alone. Beyond OASDI, there are dozens of other short codes worth knowing. Check out our guide to paystub abbreviations for a full breakdown of what each one means.

See Your OASDI in Action

Understanding OASDI isn’t just about decoding a line on your paycheck — it’s about knowing where your money goes and how it supports your future. Every OASDI deduction helps fund Social Security, ensuring you’ll have benefits waiting when you retire.

If you want to see exactly how those deductions work on your own paycheck, try the FormPros paystub generator — it instantly creates accurate, professional paystubs with all the right tax details built in. You can also check out our guide on How to Read a Paystub to learn what every line means and how to spot your Social Security contributions.

With FormPros, you can take the guesswork out of paystubs and understand your finances with confidence — one paycheck at a time.

Create a Paystub Now

---

FAQs

• How do I find my OASDI on my paystub?
  Look for a line labeled OASDI or Social Security. It’s usually grouped with federal tax and Medicare.
• Is OASDI refundable?
  No — it’s not refundable. It’s a contribution toward your future Social Security benefits.
• What if I earn over the limit?
  Once you reach the annual wage base, your employer automatically stops withholding OASDI for the rest of the year.
• Do self-employed people pay OASDI?
  Yes. They pay the full 12.4% themselves through the self-employment tax.
• Can I opt out of OASDI?
  Not unless you qualify for a rare exemption (like certain nonresident aliens or government workers under separate systems).

---