Examining elements of a paycheck
Students review a sample pay stub to understand the real-world effect of taxes and deductions on the amount of money workers take home.
Big idea
A paycheck typically includes payment for work completed and a pay stub that records earnings and all deductions.
Essential questions
- How is the amount of a paycheck calculated?
- How does gross income differ from net income?
Objectives
- Understand the components of a pay stub
- Become familiar with the types of taxes that are deducted from a paycheck
What students will do
- Review a sample pay stub.
- Discuss the entries and deductions on the pay stub and what they mean.
Download activity
Teacher guide
cfpb_building_block_activities_examining-elements-paycheck_guide.pdf
Student materials
cfpb_building_block_activities_how-to-read-pay-stub_handout.pdf
Note: Please remember to consider your students’ accommodations and special needs to ensure that all students are able to participate in a meaningful way.