A Complete Resource On How To Get Pay Stubs From Previous Employer

Are you trying to find out how to get pay stubs from previous employer? You can either request it or access it online. While you no longer work at your previous company, it's still possible that you need your old pay stubs. You may need them while applying for loans, renting apartments, or filing taxes.

That being said, even after leaving your job, your previous pay stubs can still be useful. This is why you need a simple method to create pay stubs when needed. 

The main issue now is that while you may need your past pay stubs, you may not know how to access them or retrieve them from your employer. Most times, it may also be that you don't know who to ask. 

This is exactly what this article explains. You'll be able to understand how to get check stubs from old job you left recently, or retrieve pay stubs from years back.

Why You May Need Your Old Pay Stubs

A pay stub serves more usefulness than just providing a breakdown of your earnings. A real pay stub is one of your major proofs of income. Here are some reasons why you may need your old pay stubs from your previous employer:

• Applying for a Loan or Mortgage: When applying for a loan or mortgage, most banks or lenders typically require a pay stub as proof of income. They need to see your income history in order to know whether you can make your payments.

• Renting an Apartment or House: Landlords want proof that what you earn is enough to cover the rent.

• Preparing for Taxes: If you can't find your W-2, your pay stubs can be your backup plan while preparing for tax filing. They show your total earnings and what was withheld.

• Starting a New Job: Some companies ask for a recent pay stub to verify your former salary. They'd have to do this before making an offer.

• Your Own Records: Keeping your own personal records of your pay can help you track your career growth and financial history.

Read more: What Are The Differences Between A Pay Stub Vs Payslip?

How To Get Pay Stubs From Previous Employer

Here's how to get paystub from old job:

1. Gather Your Employee Information 

You need to be aware of what you need to gather. This includes the important details that your previous employer would use to find your file quickly. You'll need:

• Your full name as it was on file

• Your employee ID number or Social Security number

• Exact dates of employment. It has to be the month and year you started and left.

• Specific pay periods you need

• Your current mailing address and email address to get the important documents.

2. Find the Right Person to Contact for Further Assistance

You need to find the right person or solution to "How can you access your pay stub records?" Now, apart from just your previous employer, you may also want to consider contacting the HR or payroll department. These are great options because these departments manage employee information and records.

To find them, check the company's website until you find a "Contact Us," "About," or "Team" page.

3. Write a Request

Once you find who to contact, prepare to write a written communication and send it via email. While writing, make it clear and easy, so that it's easy for them to understand your request. Check online for simple templates you can use regarding how to get old pay stubs from previous employer.

4. Follow Up with Your Request

Once you've written your email with all the correct information, send it. Don't expect a response immediately; instead, wait for about 5-7 business days. If you don't get any response, send a follow-up email. Mention how you're simply following up on your request, and you're still waiting for your document.

Also check: Are you looking for a W2 maker to create your W2 form? Generate your document now. 

How To Access Pay Stubs from Previous Employer Online

You may not even need to send a request for your pay stubs, as most of the companies now have an online payroll system: 

1. Using the Employee Website Portal

If your former company has a payroll portal where employees can view an electronic copy of their pay stub, try logging into it. Use your old employee ID number and password to log in. You might still have access to view and download your old pay stubs. 

2. Ask the Human Resources Department for Portal Access

If you can't remember your login details, it's best to ask the HR department if they can send you a secure link for former employees. This way, you may have limited access but can still view your old pay stubs.

3. Use the online payroll system directly

You can also try logging into the payroll service website directly for digital access. Use the service that your last employer used, or even contact that payroll company directly. They might help you obtain pay stubs if they still have the records.

Also check: Instant AI pay stub creator to generate professional stubs in a few steps.

How To Get a Paystub From an Old Job if Your Employer Doesn't Provide You One

In cases where your old employer refuses to give you your pay stubs, these are the possible reasons and what you can do:

• The company is out of business: Contact your state's labor department. They may have the payroll records for closed businesses for a period. You can request a wage statement from them.

• They may be ignoring you: It's possible that your previous employer won't respond, even after you've tried to reach out to them several times. Simply file a formal complaint with your state labor office. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires them to maintain records for at least a retention period of three years. Therefore, you have a right to see them.

• Lost records: If it's been many years or there was a fire/flood, try using other alternative ways.

Alternative Documents If an Employer Doesn't Provide Old Pay Stubs for Proof of Income

These alternatives are accepted:

1. Bank Statements / Direct Deposit

These statements show the direct deposit that the employer has made into your bank account. It can be an alternative to a paper pay stub.

2. Your Tax Returns (W2 Forms)

This also works as proof of income if needed. Sometimes, it's even better than using a pay stub.

3. An Employment Verification Letter

An employment verification letter is one from your previous employer. Typically, it has a company letterhead, and it confirms your job, dates, and salary for verification purposes.

4. A Notarized Affidavit

This affidavit is a statement that is signed and sworn to about your income. Use this as a last option if the others don't work.

Read more: What Is A Void Check and How to Obtain One?

Closing Thoughts

If you need your old pay stubs, you need to know how to get pay stubs from previous employer. This makes it easier for you, so you know what to do during this process. As an employee, you have every right to view your pay stub and employment information. For employers to provide your pay stub, it, however, depends on your statement. It's important that you check for this. 

If you need to generate your simple and professional pay stubs, try using our stub creator. It's a reliable tool that's fast and accurate. Get started with us now.