pay period vs pay date

A payroll cutoff date is the deadline for submitting and approving hours, overtime, and other pay information before an employer runs payroll. If your start date falls in a new pay period or your hours are not approved in time, your first paycheck may be smaller or arrive later than expected. This guide explains the difference between pay periods and payroll cutoffs, shows exactly how each affects your first check, and tells you what to ask HR on day one.