From Played to Paid – Week 2

I Got Overpaid… Now What?

That moment when your paycheck hits and it’s way higher than normal…

... and you know it’s too good to be true. 😬💸

Welcome to Week 2 of From Played to Paid, where we talk about one of the most awkward paycheck scenarios of all time: getting overpaid.

It might feel like a bonus at first—but spoiler alert—it’s not. Whether it’s an extra shift accidentally added, a missing deduction, or a system glitch, overpayments happen more often than you think.

And yes, your employer is usually allowed (and legally required) to recover that money.

So… what now?

First: Don’t Spend It Yet

As tempting as it is to enjoy the bigger paycheck, pause before celebrating. If it was truly a mistake, you’ll likely have to return the extra amount. Spending it now can turn a weird situation into a stressful one.

How Overpayments Happen

Payroll professionals do everything they can to get it right—but errors can happen due to:

• Incorrect timecard data or missed time-off entries

• Duplicate pay entries or system glitches

• Retroactive pay updates that didn’t calculate correctly

• Late benefit enrollment processing or deductions not applying

No one’s trying to play you. But when any part of the payroll process breaks down, overpayments can result.

What Your Employer Will Likely Do

If you’ve been overpaid, your payroll or HR team will probably:

1. Notify you in writing and explain the error

2. Calculate the net overpayment (not just gross!)

3. Coordinate repayment—this might be via payroll deduction, a one-time payback, or payment plan

They can’t just dock your next check without notice—and in some states, there are specific rules about how recovery must happen.

What You Should Do

✅ Keep calm and confirm. 

Ask for written details, including what caused the overpayment and how much you actually owe.

✅ Ask about options. 

You may be able to spread the repayment out or apply unused leave to offset the balance.

✅ Avoid ghosting payroll. 

It’s way easier to resolve when everyone’s

communicating.

✅ Review your own records. 

Check timecards, pay stubs, and deductions for any red flags.

What Payroll Pros Want You to Know

• We hate overpayments just as much as you do. 😩

• Our goal isn’t to make your life harder—it’s to keep everything legal and fair.

• The faster you respond, the easier this gets for everyone.

Getting overpaid feels great… until it doesn’t. But understanding your rights, your employer’s obligations, and the recovery process helps take the sting out.

See you next week!