How To Get Pay Stubs From Previous Employer?

So you need to get pay stubs from a previous employer but you have no idea how to go about doing it. While contacting a former employer may seem like a hassle, pay stub recovery is actually a fairly simple and straightforward process. Also, your recent pay stubs are always a good thing to have on hand.

For example, many car insurance companies will want to see your pay stubs as proof of income. Landlords as well often time request proof of income before allowing you to sign a lease. And of course, pay stubs will be helpful if you were to ever get audited. But how do you go about retrieving them? Read this article to learn how to get pay stubs from employer. 

1. Understand the State Laws

Laws vary by state when it comes to giving employees paystubs. In some states, employers are required to give employees a pay stub every pay period, regardless if you use direct deposit or not. Some employers choose to give this pay stub in person, while others choose to mail it. 

Some states, on the other hand, are merely required to keep records of pay stubs. This means that while they don't need to hand them out each pay period, they do need to have them on file so employees can access them at any time. However, this does not necessarily have to be written access, many times they only have to give you electronic access. 
Contact your state labor department to understand paycheck and pay stub laws in your state. 

2. Contact Your Former Supervisor Or Human Resources 

Even if your employer is not required to give you a final pay stub, you can always request one. Contact either HR or a former supervisor and simply ask them what steps you need to take to obtain your previous pay stubs. Also, make sure to ask how long it will take to complete the request, as you may need to prepare to wait awhile. Often times, they will forward you to the payroll or accounting department to complete your request. 

3. Paperwork 

Now it's time for the really fun part, paperwork. Most likely, the accounting department will have you fill out a pay stub request form or draft up a quick request in writing. You will need to include your full name, current address, previous address (if living there during previous employment), social security number, former employee identification number, and applicable pay period dates. You send in this form by email, snail mail, fax, or in person delivery. Be sure to confirm that the recipient has received the form once you've sent it. 

4. Considerations 

If for some reason your employer refuses to comply with your request for a pay stub, you are entitled to file a complaint with the state labor department. Your employer will then be required to pay a violation fee, so hopefully, this will prompt them to act. 

How to Get Pay Stubs From Employer: Wrap Up 

Hopefully, you now understand how to get pay stubs from employer. Please drop a comment below if you have any questions. However, if this still seems like a hassle, check out our pay stub maker to get your stub in minutes.