Payroll accounting

The payslip is a document that employees receive regularly from their employer and which shows in detail how their salary is made up.

It lists the gross salary, deductions such as taxes, social security contributions and possible surcharges or bonuses to calculate the net wage — i.e. the amount that ends up in the account. The payslip serves as proof of the salary paid and is important for tax returns or proof to authorities.

In addition to basic information, a payslip often also includes information on vacation entitlement, overtime and any special payments. The tax bracket and other wage-relevant factors, such as church membership or child allowances, are also listed. Employees should check their payslip regularly to identify errors at an early stage.

In addition, the payslip often contains an overview of contributions to company pension plans or capital benefits, if these have been agreed. Information on the length of employment or information on future salary adjustments may also be included. A careful review of the payslip can also help identify discrepancies in the salary calculation and resolve them in good time.

If anything is unclear, they have the right to request a detailed explanation from the employer. It is advisable to archive payslips for at least the duration of the statutory retention period of six years, as they may be relevant for various purposes, such as pension claims or unemployment benefits.