The check stub can be defined as the replica of the real check which contains all the information about the check. It forms part of the check which can be retained for record. This includes the complete details of payroll check which contains updated information about your current paycheck.

Each company follows different format for cutting checks, although the information shared is the same. The format depends on the software used by the office. Some offices have very small counterfoil for check while others have lengthy stub like that of check itself. The habit of including details such as year to date information is still in vogue in many companies. You have different stubs for check with easy and clear information displayed in square boxes and some stubs contain information which cannot be followed due to improper format. The format of the check stub relies on the software design the company has opted for them. In some organizations the design is formulated by the chief accountant who is in charge of supervising the payroll system. Many small business entities choose their own payroll format and check format for devising the pay of the employees. In some offices the payroll checks are purchased from the finance section or department of the head office. Alternatively, some companies download the format of the payroll checks from the internet. Microsoft Word provides excellent format for paycheck which can be downloaded for free. So, it is left to the discretion of the individual company with regard to the format of the pay check and stub.

There are certain things mandatory by law to be written on the pay check cut by the company. It should contain basic information such as name of the employee, name of the employer, gross pay and net pay etc. Some pay check stub also contains information regarding insurance deductions, contribution towards pension plan such as 401K or any other option chosen by the employee; leave information, medical deductions made for the month, and child care assistance if any given by the employer. Some check includes detailed information regarding the outstanding loans availed by the employee and some do not contain such details on it.