PAYCHECK GUIDE
A practical checklist for possible payslip errors
A difference does not automatically mean the payslip is wrong. Work through the same checklist every time so you can separate missing pay from timing differences, corrections and data-entry mistakes.
Check before calculating
Confirm the pay period, ordinary hours, unpaid absence, hourly rate and whether the timesheet was approved before payroll closed.
Check variable pay
Review overtime hours and multiplier, evening or night additions, weekend or holiday additions, bonuses, responsibility pay and expense reimbursements.
Check adjustments
Look for retroactive changes, previous overpayments, corrections from an earlier period, holiday pay and one-off deductions. These can move the payslip total without changing current hours.
Check your own comparison
Make sure you did not mix net and gross pay, count overtime twice, use a monthly figure with weekly hours or include allowances from another period.
Prepare evidence, not accusations
Keep the payslip, approved timesheet and relevant agreement together. State the line, your calculation and the difference, then ask payroll to explain the inputs used.
Questions and answers
Does every difference mean underpayment?
No. Timing, corrections and omitted inputs can also create a difference.
What should I send payroll?
Send only what is necessary: the relevant period, line item, your recorded hours or rate and the calculated difference.
Can PayCheck AI prove a payroll error?
No. It produces an estimate that can help you ask a more specific question.
Independent estimate only. This page is general information, not legal, tax, payroll or financial advice. Check your agreement and local rules.