Expert: Shirley McAllister, CPP, PHR - 11/18/2010

Question
I started a new part-time job in Iowa.  The lady who does the payroll had my information, but made an error on my first paycheck with my hourly wage.  (I make $10, but she put it as $8.50) I talked with her about this error & asked if she would void the check she gave me & reissue a new one for the correct amount.  She refused & said she would 'true it up' on the next paycheck.  Will that mess up the withholding/taxes, etc.?  How will I know if she gives me the correct amount I am due?  Is it legal for them to refuse to correct the error on the 1st check?  Thanks for you time & effort!

Answer
Sometimes it is not possible to void and reissue the check as the system does not allow the payroll person to do so. This is usually a fraud control or because the payroll is outsourced. I cannot void and reprint a check for the same person in the same payroll cycle.

It is legal to make it right on the next payroll check.

You will need to check the next check. Take your hours worked X 10. Then you should have a spot for retro pay on there which would be the retro from this pay period. you should be paid 1.50 for each hour you worked this pay date. It is not enough extra to make much of a difference in the taxes. The Fica and Medicare is the same and the federal and state won't change unless it is a rather large check.

Shirley