What Should Be on a Payslip? A Simple Guide for UK Employees

Every employee in the UK has the right to receive a payslip — but do you actually know what all the numbers mean? Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand what should be on your payslip, what’s optional, and how to check it’s correct.

✅ Your Legal Right to a Payslip

Under UK employment law, every employee and most workers must receive a payslip on or before payday. It can be given on paper or digitally.

Employers who fail to provide one can face penalties or tribunal claims, so it’s worth knowing your rights.

🧾 What Information Must Be Included

A valid payslip must show:

• Gross pay – your total earnings before deductions
• Deductions – such as tax, National Insurance, pension, or student loans
• Net pay – what actually lands in your bank account
• Pay period – the start and end date covered by the payment
• Payment method – for example, “BACS” or “Bank Transfer”

If your pay varies (e.g. hourly work), the payslip must also show hours worked and the rate of pay.

💡 Optional But Useful Details

Some employers include extra details like:

• Employer name and address
• Employee number
• Tax code
• National Insurance number
• Holiday pay or overtime notes

These aren’t legally required but make your records easier to track.

🔍 Why Checking Your Payslip Matters

Even small payroll errors can cause tax or benefit issues later.
Always check that:

• Your tax code matches your HMRC notice
• Your National Insurance number is correct
• Deductions look consistent each month

If something seems off, speak to payroll or HR before payday.

📦 Keep Your Payslips Safe

Keep both paper and digital payslips for at least 6 years, especially if you’re self-employed, applying for a mortgage, or need to prove past earnings.

👉 You can even generate digital versions using our Free Payslip Creator.

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