Spotting the difference between what is real and what is fake is not always an easy task, and sadly enough, fake paystubs are all too real nowadays. Fake paystubs have become more and more commonplace over the past number of years, and spotting the difference can be a real challenge.
If you can’t tell the difference between the two, you could land yourself or your company in some real trouble. That is what we are going to guard against with this article.
Fortunately for you, there are a few telltale signs that you are dealing with a fake, and these helpful insights are going to arm you with the knowledge to stop fake paystubs in their tracks.
- All the Decimals and Digits Should be Aligned
When paystubs are created by professionals, such as the accounting and payroll departments, all the digits and decimals will be aligned and in the right place. There is no doubt about it.
Fake paystubs lack the accuracy and finer details that accountants love. They may even look like they were produced using Microsoft Word. A real paystub will be an accurate reflection of professional accounting software and eye-for-detail expertise. This is a fact.
- It Will be Clearly Legible
If a paystub is difficult to read and the numbers do not quite match up, chances are that it is a fake. A genuine paystub is clearly legible and easy to read and understand. Also, it will be printed on quality paper using a good ink or thermal printer.
If the numbers do not quite add up and the stub is difficult to read, chances are it’s a fake. Pay close attention to the formatting as well, as this is a clear sign that something might be fishy.
- The Basic Information Must be 100% Accurate
Accountants rarely make material errors, while a fake paystub generator often uses generic information to populate paystubs. They may forget to add certain information or simply forget to change certain information relating to the person in question.
If, by chance, any basic information is missing, such as; name, date of birth, or occupation, this is a massive red flag and one that should be dealt with immediately. Spelling mistakes are another giant red flag that should not be ignored or overlooked.
- Round-ups or Estimations Should be Minimal
Real paystubs generators are as meticulous as accountants, and they account for every cent that is received and paid out. Due to this fact, round-ups will be at an absolute minimum.
Too many rounded numbers, unrealistic-looking estimations, and figures that just don’t look quite right should be noted and not ignored. They may be the only way to tell that you may be dealing with a fake.
- How to Spot a Fake
Check all the basic information presented on the paystub closely and in detail, keeping a keen eye open for any discrepancies that may be apparent. Make sure that the alignment of decimals, figures, numbers, and formatting is on par, as well as the overall quality of the paystub that is presented.
