Understanding your Pay Stubs Helps Protect YOUR Pay

2 days ago
2 min read

As an employee in the state of California, you have the right to receive accurate pay and itemized pay stubs. Should you have questions about your pay, you can ask them from your employer and are protected from retaliation.

In California, by law under Labor Code 226 your pay stub must include:

1. Employer Info: The legal name and address of your employer.

2. Pay Rates: All hourly rates used (e.g., regular vs. overtime) and the exact hours worked at each of those rates.

3. Pay Period & Date: The start and end dates of the period you're being paid for, plus the actual pay date.

4. Employee Info: Your full name and at least the last 4 digits of your SSN or an employee ID number.

5. Total Hours: The total number of hours worked during that specific pay period (essential for hourly employees).

6. Itemized Deductions: A clear list of everything taken out, such as federal/state taxes, SDI, health insurance, or 401(k).

7. Gross Wages: Your total earnings before any taxes or deductions are taken out

8. Net Wages: Often called "take-home pay," this is the final amount you actually receive after all deductions.

You may find all the listed items on the sample pay stub below.

Why reviewing your paystub matters

Your pay stub shows exactly how your pay is calculated. Taking a moment to review it each pay period helps you make sure you are paid correctly. Empowering you to catch mistakes early on before they compound or go completely unseen. All while granting you a greater understanding and involvement in your taxes and deductions.

Is Your Pay Stub Correct?

What to Check	Quick Breakdown	Watch Out For
Dates & Rates	Pay Period/Date: Do they match your actual shifts? Pay Rate: Is your hourly/salary rate correct?	Incorrect hourly rate or pay for the wrong dates.
Hours Worked	Regular vs. OT: Check regular (up to 40/wk), OT (1.5x rate after 8h/day or 40h/wk), and Double Time (2x rate after 12 hrs/day & after 8 hrs on the 7th consecutive day)	Missing hours or overtime/double time that wasn't calculated.
The Totals	Gross Pay: Total earned before any cuts. Net Pay: Your actual "take-home" amount.	A sudden drop in your take-home pay without explanation.
Deductions	Taxes & Benefits: Check withholdings for insurance, retirement, and local/state taxes.	Unfamiliar deductions or missing required tax information.
Year-to-Date	YTD Totals: Tracks your cumulative earnings and taxes for the entire year.	Discrepancies between your YTD totals and your previous paystub.

If you believe your rights have been violated or your employer did not meet requirements made by the State of California here is what to do:

Gather Evidence: Keep copies of all relevant pay stubs.
Document the Details: Note the specific dates, hours worked, and pay received.
Attempt Resolution: Speak with your employer or HR department to address the discrepancy.
File a Claim: If the issue remains unresolved, file a formal claim with the California Labor Commissioner’s Office (DLSE).

Have Questions? We can help!

Give us a call at (559) 291-5428.

Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:30am–5pm (Closed for lunch 12pm–1pm)

For more information you can refer to California's Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) website where you can also file a wage claim online.