A payslip is more than a document. It’s your proof of earnings, your record of tax deductions and your protection against underpayment. In the UK, every employee and most workers are legally entitled to receive a payslip on or before payday. Yet many people still deal with employers who delay, avoid or outright refuse to provide one.
At Payslips Plus, we regularly hear from workers facing this situation. Missing payslips create uncertainty, stress and real financial difficulties. Without one, it becomes harder to prove your income, challenge incorrect deductions or apply for essentials like credit, housing, loans or benefits. This guide explains your rights, why payslips matter and what to do when your employer refuses to give you one.
Why payslips are legally required in the UK
UK law states that workers must receive an itemised payslip showing:
• Total pay before deductions
• Take-home pay
• Deductions such as tax, National Insurance or pension
• Hours worked when pay varies by time worked
This applies to almost every employment situation: full-time, part-time, agency, zero-hours, casual or temporary. If you legally count as a worker or employee, you must be given a payslip.
It can be printed or digital, but it must arrive on or before payday.
Why employers withhold payslips
Most employers issue payslips correctly, but issues do occur. Common reasons include:
• Weak or outdated payroll systems
• Administrative mistakes
• Cash-in-hand arrangements
• Incorrect deductions employers don’t want noticed
• Unregistered or non-compliant businesses
• Misunderstanding worker status
Some employers know they’re breaching the rules but hope employees won’t challenge them.
What to do if your employer refuses to give a payslip
Your first step should always be a polite but clear request. Many issues are accidental and resolved quickly.
A simple approach:
• Speak to HR, payroll or your manager
• Explain that you are entitled to a payslip on or before payday
• Request all missing payslips, not just the latest one
If the employer ignores you, delays repeatedly or refuses, it’s time to take further steps.
Keep evidence of your work and pay
When payslips are missing, gather proof of your earnings from other sources. This protects you if you need to challenge incorrect pay later.
Useful evidence includes:
• Bank statements showing wage deposits
• Employment contracts
• Screenshots of rotas or timesheets
• Texts or emails about shifts
• Records of overtime or bonuses
These documents help build a clear picture of your pay history.
If your employer still refuses
If the employer won’t provide payslips after being reminded, they are breaching their legal obligations. At this stage, you can consider formal action.
Possible outcomes include:
• Employer being ordered to provide proper payslips
• Investigation into incorrect or missing deductions
• Compensation for incorrect or unauthorised deductions
• Pressure on the employer to fix their payroll system
Most employers comply once they understand the seriousness of the issue.
Common excuses employers use and why they don’t matter
Workers often hear excuses that have no legal standing. Typical examples include:
• “You’re paid cash, so you don’t need a payslip.”
• “You’re self-employed.”
• “We’ll give it later.”
• “We don’t issue payslips.”
• “You don’t earn enough.”
None of these excuses remove your right to a fpayslip.
Even if you are paid cash a payslip must still be issued.
Even if the employer labels you “self-employed”, the reality of your working conditions may mean you are legally a worker and entitled to payslips.
How missing payslips affect your financial life
Not having a payslip causes more problems than many people realise. It affects your ability to:
• Rent a property
• Apply for loans or mortgages
• Check if tax and NI have been deducted correctly
• Detect overpayments or underpayments
• Claim benefits, tax credits or Universal Credit
• Track working hours
Missing payslips create long-term financial uncertainty, not just short-term inconvenience.
When refusal to provide payslips signals a deeper problem
Sometimes a missing payslip is just a mistake but often it points to something more serious, such as:
• Underpayment of wages
• Incorrect tax or NI deductions
• Unregistered employment
• Non-payment of pension contributions
• Cash-in-hand arrangements
In these cases, documenting your pay becomes even more important.
Why digital payslips are a better solution
Digital payslips are now the preferred option for many workers because they’re:
• Easy to save
• Always accessible
• Protected from loss or damage
• Clear and professional
Services like Payslips Plus specialise in issuing digital payslips quickly, accurately and securely, ensuring workers and employers stay compliant.
Conclusion
A payslip is a basic right for workers in the UK. If your employer refuses to provide one, you should act quickly: request it formally, gather evidence and escalate if necessary. Missing payslips can hide errors or even unlawful practices, so protecting yourself is essential.
At Payslips Plus, we believe every worker deserves a clear and accurate record of their earnings. Understanding your rights and standing up for them ensures fairness and transparency in every workplace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my employer won’t give me a payslip?
Request it formally, keep a record of your request and gather alternative proof of pay. If refusal continues, consider escalating the issue.
Can employers legally refuse to give payslips?
No. Almost all workers and employees must receive a payslip by law.
Do I still get a payslip if I’m paid in cash?
Yes. Payment method does not change your legal entitlement.
What if my employer says I’m self-employed?
Labels don’t matter. If you work like an employee or worker, you may be legally entitled to payslips.
Can missing payslips affect my tax or NI?
Yes. Without payslips, it’s harder to confirm deductions or challenge errors.