37 Where Did Your Money Go? How to Read Your Pay cheque (Gross vs Net, Taxes, CPP, EI & Payroll Myths)

Most people glance at their pay cheque and move on — until something looks “off.” In this episode of Not Just Money, Doretta and Li break down what your pay stub actually tells you, why your take‑home pay is often lower than expected, and how to understand every line on your pay statement. Whether you’re a student working your first job, a full‑time employee, or someone who’s never really looked at their pay stub, this episode gives you the clarity you need to understand where your money is going — and why. You’ll learn: The difference between gross pay and net pay What mandatory deductions really are: income tax, CPP/QPP, EI What employer deductions cover (and why they’re worth it) How raises actually affect your taxes (hint: a higher tax bracket never makes you poorer) Why two people with the same salary can have different take‑home pay How to spot errors in your pay cheque What to do if you don’t receive a pay stub The risks of working under the table — from EI eligibility to CPP retirement impacts This is a practical, back‑to‑basics episode that helps you understand your income, your deductions, and your financial rights as an employee. If you’ve ever wondered “Where did my money go?”, this one’s for you.