Legal Definitions - paycheck

A paycheck is a physical check issued by an employer to an employee as payment for wages earned during a specific period. It represents the employee's compensation for their work and can be cashed or deposited into a bank account to access the funds. Typically, a paycheck is accompanied by a pay stub, which provides a detailed breakdown of gross earnings, deductions (like taxes and benefits), and net pay.

Here are some examples to illustrate the concept of a paycheck:

• Example 1: Regular Bi-Weekly Payment

  Maria works as a librarian and receives a paper paycheck every two weeks. On payday, she takes the check to her bank and deposits it into her checking account, making her earned wages available for her use.

  This illustrates a standard paycheck issued by an employer (the library) to an employee (Maria) for her regular wages earned over a specific pay period.

• Example 2: Final Payment Upon Leaving Employment

  After completing a major project and resigning from his position, David, a construction worker, received his final paycheck from his previous employer. This check included payment for all hours he worked up to his last day, as well as any accrued, unused vacation time.

  This demonstrates a paycheck issued for wages earned, even in the context of employment termination. It serves as the official payment for all work performed by David up to his last day of employment.

• Example 3: Bonus Payment

  Sarah, a graphic designer, was delighted to find a separate, larger paycheck in her mail one month, clearly marked as a year-end performance bonus from her company. This was in addition to her regular bi-weekly paychecks.

  While often associated with regular wages, a paycheck can also be used to disburse additional compensation like bonuses. In this case, it represents a distinct payment from the employer to Sarah for her exceptional work and achievements.