Pay Stub vs W-2: When You Need Each
When to use period pay stubs versus a year-end W-2 for proof of income, tax filing, and employer compliance.
Use a pay stub when
- You need recent proof of income (rent, loan pre-check)
- You are verifying a single period's hours, OT, or deductions
- You are reconciling a paycheck dispute mid-year
Use a W-2 when
- You are filing a personal income tax return
- A lender asks for prior-year wage history
- You are confirming annual wages, federal income tax withheld, and FICA wages
How they connect
If you add each stub's taxable wages across the year (careful with corrections and voids), totals should align closely with W-2 Box 1 and related boxes — understanding timing and pre-tax benefits.
Frequently asked questions
My stubs and W-2 do not match. Is that always an error?
Not always — timing, corrected stubs, third-party sick pay, or benefit taxation can create differences. Ask payroll to explain reconciling items.
Sources
See also our full sources list, methodology, and editorial standards. This page is educational and not tax, legal, or accounting advice.
Put the numbers on a real stub
Preview federal, FICA, and state amounts with your own pay details.