Paystub decoder
2026 · BC · What every line on your paystub means, and whether the deductions look right. Everything is calculated on your device — nothing is uploaded.
The big number before anything is taken off.
📖 Paystub line-by-line
Tap each line to see what it is and why it’s deducted.
Gross Pay
What you earned before anything is taken off: hourly rate × hours, or salary ÷ pay periods. Overtime and vacation pay count here too.
Income Tax
Federal and BC tax, usually one combined line withheld by your employer and sent to the CRA. It’s a prepayment — your actual tax is settled when you file in spring, which is where refunds come from.
CPP
Canada Pension Plan: 5.95% in 2026 on earnings between $3,500 and $74,600. Not a tax — it funds your future retirement pension. Earnings from $74,600 to $85,000 are subject to an extra 4% (CPP2).
EI
Employment Insurance: 1.63% in 2026, capped at $68,900 of earnings (max $1,123/yr). It funds benefits if you lose your job or take maternity/parental leave.
Net Pay
What actually lands in your bank account after all deductions.
YTD (Year to Date)
Running totals since January 1. Year-end YTD figures are what your T4 slip is built from.
Vacation Pay
In BC it’s at least 4% of wages (6% after 5 years). Some employers pay it out every period as its own line; others pay when you take vacation.
Other deductions
Group benefits (dental/vision), union dues, pension or RRSP matching. These vary by employer — HR or payroll can explain any line you don’t recognize.
🍁 Curious about next spring’s refund? Try the refund estimator, and start your taxes at Tax Helper.