Your paycheck, also called a pay statement, is an important document containing detailed information. The following definitions may help you navigate your pay statement: Gross pay (or current gross) refers to the total earnings you receive in a pay period before deductions are taken (withheld) Net pay (take home pay) refers to the amount of pay you "take home" after deductions are taken Deductions refer to amounts taken from your gross pay, and can be either voluntary or involuntary: Voluntary deductions refer to amounts you have elected to subtract from your gross pay. Examples include health and dental benefit deductions, pioneer express, and more Involuntary deductions refer to mandatory deductions that the Payroll Office must withhold from your gross pay. Examples include Federal and State income tax, and FICA and Medicare taxes We encourage you to explore the following links to understand when and how you are paid, how to enroll in direct deposit, and learn more about voluntary and involuntary deductions. In addition, click on the "Paycheck Information" link below to take a tour of your pay statement.