A pay statement can show several different dollar amounts. Before comparing your own work record with payroll, choose the gross amount for the same dates.
Start with gross pay
Gross pay is earnings before taxes and other payroll deductions. Take-home, or net pay, is what remains after deductions and adjustments. A lower net amount does not by itself indicate missing work hours.
A simple example
Your work record shows 40 hours at $20 an hour, for a $800 gross estimate. A pay statement could show $800 gross and a smaller net amount. Compare your $800 estimate with gross, rather than with the bank deposit.
Match the pay period
Check the beginning and ending dates on the statement. The deposit date may be later than the days worked. In the tracker, enter those dates in Paycheck check and use tracked pay for that range.
A short review checklist
- Are all completed shifts included for these dates?
- Are unpaid breaks and hourly rates accurate?
- Does the employer use the same workweek and overtime assumptions?
- Are premiums, tips or other earnings included on the statement?
- Are you comparing gross with gross?
If the amounts differ
Use the difference to identify a question, not a conclusion. Ask for an explanation of the time records and pay rules. This tool cannot establish legally required wages or calculate taxes. Its configurable estimates may not represent your employer’s calculation.
Compare gross amounts →