In the UK, employers must legally provide an itemised payslip at or before payday. If your employer refuses, you can request it in writing, contact ACAS, or escalate to an employment tribunal. You can also access payslips online through payroll portals like Payslips Online.
If you’re searching for answers on how to get your payslips, what to do when an employer refuses, or whether it’s legal for employers to withhold payslips, you’ve come to the right place. Below we answer the most common questions about payslips in the UK and how Payslips Online can help you access them easily.
Retrieving your old payslips online should be simple:
Check if your employer has a payroll portal – Many companies use systems like Sage, Xero, or PayStand that allow employees to log in and download past payslips.
Contact the HR or payroll department – Ask them to resend your payslips or re-activate your access to the online portal.
Use a service like Payslips Online – If your employer offers payslips through our platform, you can log in anytime to access, download or print historical payslips.
✅ Quick tip: Most digital payroll systems store payslips for years — you just need your login credentials or support from HR.
If your employer won’t provide payslips, you have rights under UK law:
???? It is a legal requirement for employers to supply payslips on or before payday for all workers. (See more on legality below.)
Here’s what to do if they refuse:
Send a formal written request: Ask HR or payroll in writing for your payslips.
Contact ACAS: The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service provides free advice and support.
Use an external service: Payslips Online allows you to access your payslips directly if your employer uses the platform.
Consider legal support: If the issue continues, you may be able to raise a claim with an employment tribunal.
Yes, in the UK employers must provide a payslip at or before the time they pay you, even if your employer thinks they are exempt. This requirement applies to:
✔ Full-time employees
✔ Part-time employees
✔ Temporary workers
✔ Workers paid monthly, weekly or otherwise
Payslips must show important pay details like gross pay, net pay, deductions, tax and National Insurance. Failure to provide this can result in penalties.
Reddit threads often show real experiences from workers who:
Didn’t get their payslips
Are unsure how to access them
Want advice on pay transparency
Are frustrated with payroll staff or outdated systems
Common Reddit advice includes:
???? “Always request payslips in writing.”
???? “Use ACAS if HR won’t respond.”
???? “Check whether your company uses an online portal first.”
Using a centralised online solution like Payslips Online is often recommended in online forums because it removes confusion and provides instant access.
To get your latest payslip:
Log into your employer’s payroll portal (e.g., Payslips Online).
Navigate to ‘Current Payslip’ or ‘Most Recent’ section.
Download or print your payslip in PDF format.
If you can’t log in:
???? Contact HR to reset your password or re-send the latest payslip directly.
Whether it’s your first month or you want archived payslips:
???? Check your onboarding emails for payroll portal access.
???? Ask HR or payroll staff for your login or to email you payslips.
???? Use the Payslips Online platform if provided by your employer.
Most companies now issue digital payslips — no need for paper copies unless you request them.
HMRC does not issue payslips — your employer is responsible for that.
However, HMRC can help:
✔ Check your tax record through HMRC’s Personal Tax Account.
✔ Confirm your PAYE earnings and tax paid.
✔ Provide proof of earnings if you can’t obtain payslips elsewhere.
Visit the official HMRC site or call their support line for tax history and PAYE information.
If your employer continues to refuse payslips:
Make a written request
This creates a record you can use later.
Contact ACAS
They offer impartial, free advice.
Use an online payslip service
Platforms like Payslips Online allow access if your employer supports it.
Escalate to employment tribunal
If all else fails, you may have legal recourse.
At Payslips Online we make payslip access easy, secure and always available. Our platform lets you:
✔ View current and historic payslips
✔ Download PDF copies anytime
✔ Access payslips from any device
✔ Reduce reliance on HR teams
Whether you're resolving disputes, applying for loans, or just keeping your records in order, you can always find your payslips quickly and securely.
Employers must provide payslips at or before payday.
You can access old payslips via portals or payroll teams.
HMRC can show earnings but does not issue payslips.
If employers refuse, take formal steps including ACAS and tribunals.
Using an online payslip service streamlines everything.