What Is a Pay Stub? Everything You Need to Know

Understand what a pay stub is, what information it contains, and why it matters. Complete guide to pay stubs for employees and employers in 2026.

A pay stub is a document that accompanies your paycheck and provides a detailed breakdown of your earnings and deductions for a specific pay period. Also known as a paycheck stub, pay slip, or earnings statement, it serves as your official record of compensation.

Most states require employers to provide pay stubs, but the format varies: - Printed required: California, New York, Connecticut - Electronic allowed: Texas, Florida, Illinois - Access required: Colorado, Iowa, Vermont

Check your state's specific requirements on our state generator pages.

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.

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This paystub generator is a simulation/mockup tool for personal record-keeping and verification purposes only.