Learn how to make a pay stub in 2026 with accurate tax calculations. A complete step-by-step guide for employers, freelancers, and contractors.
Whether you're a small business owner, freelancer, or independent contractor, knowing how to make a pay stub is essential. Pay stubs serve as official proof of income and are required for everything from apartment applications to loan approvals.
A pay stub (also called a paycheck stub, earnings statement, or wage statement) is a document that accompanies each paycheck. It details your gross earnings, tax withholdings, deductions, and net pay for a specific pay period.
Pay stubs typically include: - Employee information — name, address, SSN (last 4 digits) - Employer information — company name, address, EIN - Pay period dates — start date, end date, pay date - Earnings — hourly rate × hours worked, or salary amount - Tax withholdings — federal income tax, state income tax, Social Security, Medicare - Deductions — health insurance, retirement contributions, etc. - Year-to-date totals — cumulative earnings and deductions
Published by the BestPaystubGen Editorial Team, covering paystubs, payroll compliance, federal and state taxes, W-2 forms, 1099 contractors, FICA, gross vs net pay, and IRS regulations updated for 2026.
This paystub generator is a simulation/mockup tool for personal record-keeping and verification purposes only.