Your payslip is a key document that provides a detailed summary of your earnings, deductions, and entitlements. Understanding it helps ensure you’re being paid correctly and that all deductions are accurate. Here’s what you should expect to see:
1. Personal Details
This section includes your name, employee ID or PPS number, and your employer’s name and contact details.
2. Gross Pay
This is the total amount you’ve earned before any deductions. It typically includes:
-
Basic salary
-
Overtime payments
-
Bonuses or commissions
-
Other taxable earnings
3. Deductions
Your payslip will itemise any deductions made from your gross pay, including:
-
PAYE (Pay As You Earn): Income tax deducted based on your salary and tax credits
-
PRSI (Pay Related Social Insurance): Contributions that fund social welfare benefits
-
USC (Universal Social Charge): A tax applied to income above a certain threshold
4. Net Pay
Also known as take-home pay, this is the amount you receive after all deductions are made.
5. Leave and Benefits
This section may show:
-
Any paid leave taken (e.g. holiday or sick leave)
-
Pension contributions
-
Other employer-provided benefits
6. Additional Information
Your payslip may also include:
-
Payment frequency (weekly, fortnightly, monthly)
-
Tax credits used and standard rate cut-off point
-
Year-to-date totals for pay and deductions
-
Any other relevant notes or adjustments
Why It’s Important
Regularly checking your payslip helps you keep track of your income and spot any errors early. If you notice anything unusual, contact your HR or payroll department promptly.