Expert: Shirley McAllister, CPP, PHR - 8/5/2009

Question
Hi Shirley, I hope you can help me with this matter.  I started a new job in January.  This July, we had three pay periods.  When I received my check stub on July 31st, i noticed that deductions were taken out for health insurance, disability, and other insurance that I would normally have taken out.  I was always under the impression that deductions were not taken out the two times a year that you have three pay periods.  This is the way it was done at my previous place of employment and other jobs I have had in the past.  There is  a little bit of confusion here and we need some clarity.  Any assistance in this matter will be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Ask what the monthly premium is for insurance. Than take that times 12 months. Now divide it by 26 and see if the right amount is being withheld.

I used to take it out 24 times a year than I changed and divided it by 26 and now I take it out 26 times a year. It is less each payday that way and it is a lot easier for me to do payroll as I have it out each time.

Shirley