How to Get Paystubs from an Old Job
Step-by-step guide to requesting pay records from a previous employer for taxes, loans, or income verification.
4 Steps to Get Your Old Paystubs
Check Your Records First
Before contacting your old employer, check if you already have the paystubs you need.
- Search your email for paystub notifications
- Check old filing systems or folders
- Look in your online banking statements for deposit amounts
- Check if you have access to an old payroll portal
Contact HR or Payroll
Reach out to your former employer's HR or payroll department directly.
- Call the main company number and ask for HR/Payroll
- Be ready with your full name, SSN, dates of employment
- Specify exactly which pay periods you need
- Ask about their process for former employee requests
Submit a Written Request
Many companies require a written request for records. Send a formal letter or email.
- Include your full name and any employee ID numbers
- List your dates of employment
- Specify the exact pay periods needed
- Provide your current contact information
- Request a response timeline
Follow Up
If you don't hear back within a week, follow up on your request.
- Call to confirm receipt of your request
- Ask about expected processing time
- Document all communication attempts
- Escalate to management if needed
Sample Request Letter
Copy and customize this template for your request
Dear [Company Name] HR Department, I am writing to request copies of my pay stubs from my employment with [Company Name]. Employee Information: - Full Name: [Your Full Legal Name] - Social Security Number (last 4): XXX-XX-[Last 4] - Dates of Employment: [Start Date] to [End Date] - Department: [Your Department] Pay Stubs Requested: I am requesting pay stubs for the period of [Month/Year] to [Month/Year]. Purpose: These records are needed for [income verification / tax preparation / loan application]. Please send the requested documents to: [Your Address] [Your Email] [Your Phone Number] Thank you for your assistance. Please contact me if you need any additional information to process this request. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Printed Name] [Date]
Important Things to Know
Retention Periods
Employers are only required to keep records for 3-4 years. If your employment was longer ago, records may no longer exist.
Processing Fees
Some employers charge administrative fees for retrieving old records. Ask about fees upfront to avoid surprises.
Your Right to Records
Most states require employers to provide access to wage records. If an employer refuses, contact your state labor department.
Alternative Documentation
If you can't get paystubs, W-2 forms, tax returns, and bank statements can often serve as alternative income verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do employers keep paystub records?
Federal law requires employers to keep payroll records for at least 3 years. Some states require longer—California requires 4 years. If your employment was recent, records should still be available.
Can an employer refuse to give me old paystubs?
In most states, employers must provide access to your wage records. However, they may charge a reasonable fee for copies. If they refuse entirely, contact your state's labor department for assistance.
What if my old employer went out of business?
If the company closed, try: (1) contacting the successor company if there was an acquisition, (2) reaching out to former HR staff on LinkedIn, (3) using your bank statements and W-2s as alternative documentation.
How long does it take to get old paystubs?
Processing times vary. Small companies may provide records within a few days. Large corporations often take 1-2 weeks. Government agencies may take 30+ days. Always request records well before you need them.
Can I get paystubs from a company that uses a payroll service?
Yes, but you may need to contact the payroll service (ADP, Paychex, etc.) directly if the employer no longer exists. You'll need to verify your identity and may need former employer authorization.
What alternatives exist if I can't get old paystubs?
Alternative income documentation includes: W-2 forms (available from SSA), tax returns, bank statements showing direct deposits, or you can create paystubs documenting your past income based on your records.
Can't Get Your Old Paystubs?
If your former employer can't provide records, you can create paystubs documenting your past income based on your W-2s, tax returns, or bank records.