Small Business•5 min read•
Direct Deposit vs Paper Check: Pros, Cons, and What Employees Prefer
Comparing direct deposit and paper checks for payroll? Learn the compliance requirements, costs, employee preferences, and why direct deposit wins for most small businesses.
JP
JustPayStubs Team
Updated February 10, 2026
💳 Quick Verdict: 93% of U.S. employees use direct deposit. It's faster, cheaper, and preferred by most workers -- but paper checks have their place.
Direct Deposit: The Modern Standard
- Instant for employees -- Funds available at midnight on pay day
- Lower cost -- ACH transfers typically $0.25-$1.75 per transaction vs $2-$6 for paper checks
- Reduces fraud -- No physical checks to steal or forge
- Employee satisfaction -- Overwhelmingly preferred
Paper Checks: Still Relevant?
- Works for employees without bank accounts
- Good for irregular workers (day labor, one-time jobs)
- Higher cost and risk of loss or theft
⚠️ Check your state's labor department website for specific rules -- requirements vary significantly by state.
Pay Stubs Are Required Either Way
Regardless of how you pay employees, most states require a pay stub with each payment showing earnings, deductions, and YTD totals.
Related Topics
direct deposit vs paper checkpayroll direct depositpaper check payrollemployee payment methodssmall business payroll options
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