Does My Employer Have to Give Me a Paystub?

It depends on your state. Some states legally require employers to provide paystubs while others don’t. But every worker has the right to see what they’ve been paid and how deductions are made.

What a Paystub Is (and why it matters)

A paystub (also called a checkstub or earnings slip) shows how your pay is calculated:

• Gross pay
• Taxes and deductions (like OASDI, Medicare, state tax)
• Net pay (what you actually take home)

You’ll want one to track your earnings, verify tax withholdings, or settle disputes.

State-by-State Paystub Requirements

Whether your employer has to give you a paystub depends on where you live. Most states, including California, New York, Texas, and Illinois, require employers to provide paystubs showing details like gross pay, taxes, and deductions. Some states, such as Florida, don’t have this requirement, leaving it up to the employer’s discretion.

In many places, electronic paystubs are allowed as long as employees can easily print or access them. To make it simple, we’ve put together a comprehensive paystub requirement by state guide that breaks down the exact rules for every state, including whether digital paystubs count and what information must be shown.

What to Do If You’re Not Getting a Paystub

If your employer doesn’t give you a paystub and your state requires it:

1. Ask your HR or payroll department: they may be able to send electronic copies.
2. Document your request: keep emails or notes.
3. Contact your state labor agency: they can explain your rights.
4. Use a paystub generator to keep records if your employer doesn’t issue them.

When You Can’t Get a Paystub, Create Your Own

If you’ve asked your employer, checked your state’s labor rules, and still can’t get a paystub… don’t worry. You don’t have to wait around or go without proper documentation.

FormPros makes it easy to generate professional, accurate paystubs in minutes. Just enter your pay information, and the system automatically calculates taxes, deductions, and net pay for you. It’s fast, secure, and built to meet state requirements.

Whether you need paystubs for a loan application, proof of income, or personal records, FormPros has you covered.

Create a Paystub Now

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FAQs

• Do employers have to give paystubs in all states?
  No. Federal law doesn’t require paystubs, but most states do. Always check your state’s rules.
• Can I get paystubs online?
  Yes; many employers use payroll platforms (like ADP or Gusto) where you can download them. If that doesn't work, you can always generate a paystub with FormPros.
• What should I do if my paystub is wrong?
  Contact HR or payroll in writing right away. Keep a copy of the incorrect paystub for reference.
• Why haven’t I received a paystub from my employer?
  It could be because your state doesn’t require employers to issue them, or your employer uses an online payroll system you haven’t accessed yet. Check your state’s rules and ask your HR department for details.
• Can I request past paystubs from my employer?
  Yes. Employers are generally required to keep payroll records for several years, and most will provide copies if you ask in writing or through your payroll portal.

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