Payroll errors are more common than most people think — a wrong hourly rate, missed overtime, an outdated tax election, or a deduction that shouldn't be there. Reviewing your paycheck takes five minutes and can save you hundreds of dollars. Print this checklist, keep it with your payslips, and run through it whenever your pay, role or deductions change. Each item links to the tool or guide that helps you check it.
1. Gross Pay
Salaried: gross pay for the period matches your annual salary ÷ number of pay periods. Convert with the Hourly Wage Calculator.
Hourly: gross pay equals hours worked × your correct hourly rate.
Any raise or rate change is reflected in this paycheck.
2. Hours & Overtime
Regular hours are accurate for the period.
Overtime hours (over 40/week for non-exempt roles) are paid at the correct premium — usually time-and-a-half. Check with the Overtime Calculator; rules in the Overtime guide.
Paid time off, holiday or sick hours appear correctly.
3. Taxes Withheld
Federal income tax is withheld and looks reasonable for your income and W-4. See the Payroll Taxes guide.
State (and any local) income tax is withheld if your state has one.
Social Security is 6.2% of eligible wages and Medicare is 1.45%. Defined in the Glossary (FICA).
If you changed your W-4, the new withholding is in effect.
4. Deductions & Contributions
Retirement (401k/403b) contribution matches the percentage you elected. See Retirement Contributions.
Health, dental and vision premiums match your enrollment.
No unfamiliar or duplicate deductions appear.
Employer match (if offered) is being applied.
5. Bonuses & Extra Pay
Any bonus or commission is present and withheld correctly as supplemental wages. Verify with the Bonus Tax Calculator.
Reimbursements (mileage, expenses) are included and not taxed.
6. Net Pay & Records
Net pay = gross − all taxes − all deductions. The math adds up. Confirm with the Gross-to-Net Calculator.
The amount deposited matches the net pay on the payslip.
Year-to-date (YTD) totals look right and roll forward each period.
You saved a copy of this payslip for your records.
Found something off? Raise it with your payroll or HR team promptly and in writing, with the specific line and the expected figure. This checklist is for general education and doesn't replace professional tax or payroll advice.