Pay Stub Laws by State
Federal law does not require employers to hand out pay stubs, but most states do. Pick your state to see whether your employer must give you one, whether an electronic stub counts, and exactly what to do if they refuse.
In California, must your employer give you a pay stub?
Yes — and you must be able to print it
Access required + must be printable
Your employer must provide a pay statement and you must be able to view and print it. Electronic delivery is allowed only if you have a free, easy way to print a copy.
California note: California also lets you request your personnel and payroll records, and the employer must respond (generally within 21 days). Penalties for non-compliant stubs can reach $4,000.
What to do if your employer won't give you a pay stub
- Ask in writing (email counts). Request a stub for each pay period and keep the message as a record.
- Request your payroll records. Most states let current and former employees inspect or copy their records; put the request in writing and note the date.
- Contact your state labor office if they still refuse.
- File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division for unpaid-wage or records issues.
Need the stub for an apartment or loan?
If you can't get a stub in time, most landlords and lenders also accept a W-2, a recent tax return, an employer income-verification letter, or bank statements showing your deposits. Combining two of these usually satisfies an income check.
Related
- Final paycheck laws by state — when you legally get your last check
- Pay stub checker — are your deductions right?
- How to view your ADP pay stubs on mobile
- Access pay stubs in QuickBooks Workforce
- Best payroll apps with mobile pay stub access — Gusto vs ADP vs Paychex
- Payroll cost calculator (for employers)
This tool is general information, not legal advice. Pay stub rules change and have exceptions — confirm your situation with your state labor office (linked above) before acting. Categories reflect standard 2026 state requirements.