Deduction Line Explainer
Not sure what a line on your pay stub means? Type it in for a plain-English explanation.
Written and reviewed by Rocco Clayfield, Founder & DirectorLast reviewed
Short answer
Enter a deduction name from your Canadian pay stub — such as CPP, EI, QPP, QPIP, RPP, union dues, benefits or tax — and the explainer describes what it is, why it appears, and a question you can ask payroll. It explains the line; it does not assert the correct dollar amount.
Type the label exactly as it appears on your stub. We match common Canadian payroll lines, including Quebec’s QPP and QPIP.
Look up a deduction code
Enter a deduction name to see a plain-English explanation and a question you can ask payroll.
FAQs
Why do pay stubs use short codes?
Payroll software abbreviates line names to fit. Common ones include CPP, EI, QPP, QPIP, RPP and Fed/Prov Tax. If a code is unclear, ask payroll what it stands for.
Does it calculate the correct amount?
No. It explains what a line is and why it appears. Exact amounts depend on current CRA or Revenu Québec rates and your full details.
What if my deduction is not listed?
Ask payroll to explain the exact label. You can build that message with the Payroll Message Generator, or upload your full stub for a line-by-line read.
Related guides & checkers
Official sources for this page
Every figure here is derived from these. Where a number matters to you, read it at the source — PayStub IQ Canada explains the rules, it does not set them.
- Guide T4127, Payroll Deductions Formulas — Canada Revenue Agency
- CPP contribution rates, maximums and exemptions — Canada Revenue Agency
- EI premium rates and maximums — Canada Revenue Agency
- QPP maximum pensionable earnings and contribution rate — Revenu Québec
- QPIP premium rates and maximum insurable earnings — Quebec Parental Insurance Plan
- Payroll Deductions Online Calculator — Canada Revenue Agency
Helpful guidance, not advice
PayStub IQ Canada provides educational payroll explanations based on the information visible in your document. It does not provide legal, tax, accounting, payroll, CRA, Revenu Québec, or employment standards advice. For official decisions or corrections, contact your employer, payroll department, CRA, Revenu Québec, your provincial or territorial employment standards office, or a qualified professional.