Pay Stub Glossary

A quick reference for the words that appear on a paycheck. Your employer may use different labels, so compare the definition and ask payroll when something is unclear.

Gross pay

Your earnings before taxes and other deductions.

Net pay

The amount left after deductions, often the amount deposited into your account.

Taxable wages

The wages used to calculate a particular tax. They may differ from gross pay.

Year to date

The running total from the beginning of the calendar year through the current check.

Pre-tax deduction

A deduction that may reduce wages subject to certain taxes, depending on the plan.

Withholding

Money sent from your paycheck toward an expected tax bill.

Regular rate

The rate used for many overtime calculations; it may include qualifying compensation beyond base pay.

Pay period

The dates covered by a paycheck, such as weekly, biweekly, or semimonthly.