2026-08-03·5 min read·Freelancing
Self-Employed? How to Get 'Pay Stubs' (Proof of Income)
Self-employed individuals don't get traditional pay stubs. Learn how to create your own proof of income documents for loans, leases, or applications.
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Marcus Johnson
Small Business Accountant
QuickBooks ProAdvisorEA
About Marcus
Marcus has spent over 10 years helping entrepreneurs and small business owners navigate the complexities of bookkeeping, tax filing, and payroll management.
At ValidPaystubs, accurate financial data is our top priority. Marcus ensures that our generator adheres to the strict standards required for proof of income documentation and tax compliance — every paystub our users generate reflects Marcus's expertise in US payroll regulations, federal and state tax withholdings, and the latest IRS guidance.
As a Small Business Accountant, Marcus brings a unique perspective to the complex world of US payroll and proof-of-income documentation. Whether the topic is understanding paystub deductions, navigating self-employment taxes, generating accurate W-2 or 1099 forms, or preparing financial documents for landlords and lenders, Marcus's articles deliver clear, actionable guidance grounded in real-world experience.
Every guide written by Marcus is fact-checked against current IRS publications, US Department of Labor guidelines, and state-specific labor regulations to ensure accuracy. ValidPaystubs maintains strict editorial standards to keep our content reliable for both individual freelancers and small business owners who depend on accurate payroll documentation.
Articles by Marcus Johnson (19)
2026-07-30·5 min read·Payroll
Formato de Comprobante de Pago en Excel Gratis: Tu Guía Completa
Descubre cómo usar un formato de comprobante de pago en Excel gratis para tu pequeña empresa. Marcus Johnson, contador, te guía en la creación de recibos y el manejo de pagos.
2026-07-18·5 min read·Finance
Salary Sacrifice Mortgage: An Indirect Route to Tax Savings
Learn how to indirectly salary sacrifice your mortgage by optimizing other pre-tax expenses to boost your cash flow for home loan payments.
2026-07-11·5 min read·Payroll
The Best Pay Stub Generator: Your Guide to Accurate Payroll Docs
Discover the best pay stub generator for small businesses and individuals. I'll compare options, discuss features, and help you choose the right tool for compliant and professional payroll records.
2026-07-10·5 min read·Payroll
Pay Stub for Mortgage: Your Essential Guide to Home Loan Approval
Understand why pay stubs are critical for mortgage applications, what lenders look for, and how to prepare your income verification documents for a smooth home buying process.
2026-06-21·5 min read·Payroll
Decoding Your ADP Paycheck Stub: A Small Business Accountant's Guide to Common Abbreviations
Confused by ADP paycheck stub abbreviations? This guide from a small business accountant explains common codes for earnings, deductions, and taxes like FED W/H, SS, MED, and 401K, helping you understand your pay.
2026-06-19·5 min read·Payroll
Can You Really Create a Pay Stub for Free? A Small Business Accountant's View
Discover if creating free pay stubs is possible and what to watch out for. Learn about accuracy, compliance, and tools from an expert accountant.
2026-06-17·5 min read·Finance
How Many Pay Stubs Do You Need for Proof of Income? An Accountant's Guide
Marcus Johnson, a small business accountant, explains how many pay stubs you need for proof of income, what documents lenders and landlords require, and how to prepare.
2026-06-16·5 min read·Tax
How Much Payroll Tax Do I Pay? A Small Business Owner's Guide
Understand federal, state, and local payroll taxes as a small business owner. Learn about FICA, FUTA, and income tax withholding with expert insights.
2026-06-14·5 min read·Payroll
What is a Pay Stub in US Mortgage Applications? Your Essential Guide
Understand why pay stubs are critical for US mortgage applications. Learn what lenders look for, common challenges, and how to prepare your income documents for a smooth approval process.
2026-06-13·5 min read·Payroll
Uber Pay Stubs: Your Guide to Income Verification as a Gig Worker
Discover if Uber provides pay stubs and how gig workers verify income for loans, housing, or other needs. Marcus Johnson, an accountant, explains your options.
2026-06-07·5 min read·Payroll
How to Get Uber Pay Stubs: A Freelancer's Guide to Income Verification
Learn how Uber drivers access earnings statements, create income verification, and manage finances as a 1099 contractor.
2026-06-04·5 min read·Payroll
Quebec Pay Stub Abbreviations: Your Essential Guide for Small Business Owners
Decode your Quebec pay stub with our guide to common abbreviations like QPP, QPIP, CSST, and federal deductions. Understand your earnings and withholdings.
2026-04-19·5 min read·Payroll
Getting Pay Stubs in QuickBooks: Your Essential Guide for Small Business Owners
Marcus Johnson, a small business accountant, explains how to easily access and print pay stubs in QuickBooks Desktop and Online for you and your employees.
2026-04-15·5 min read·Payroll
How to Get Check Stubs from Old Job: Your Expert Guide
Need old check stubs? Learn the best ways to get them from a former employer, online portals, or tax documents. Marcus Johnson, an accountant, explains all.
2026-03-27·5 min read·Payroll
Creating a Pay Stub: Your Step-by-Step Guide for Small Businesses
Learn how to create a pay stub for your employees or yourself. This guide covers all essential elements, deductions, and legal requirements for accurate paystubs.
2026-03-21·5 min read·Payroll
How to Make Check Stubs Online: Your Expert Guide to Generating Pay Stubs
Learn how to make check stubs online quickly and accurately with this guide from a small business accountant. Get tips on tools, info, and taxes.
2026-03-06·5 min read·Payroll
Payroll for Uber Drivers: A Self-Employed Guide to Taxes and Income Proof
Uber drivers are independent contractors, not employees. Learn how to manage self-employment taxes, track income, create paystubs, and stay compliant.
2026-02-15·5 min read·Loans
How Many Pay Stubs Do You Need for a Car Loan? Complete 2026 Guide
How many pay stubs do you need for a car loan? Lenders typically require 2-3 recent pay stubs to verify income. Learn what to bring and how to prepare.
Areas of Expertise
Marcus specializes in helping individuals and small businesses navigate the practical realities of US payroll, taxation, and financial documentation. Common topics covered include:
- ✓Federal income tax withholdings (FICA, FUTA, Medicare)
- ✓State and local tax compliance (50 US states)
- ✓W-2 vs 1099 contractor distinctions
- ✓Self-employment tax obligations
- ✓Proof of income for rental and loan applications
- ✓Paystub abbreviations and deduction codes
- ✓YTD earnings, gross pay, and net pay calculations
- ✓Pre-tax vs post-tax deductions (401k, HSA, FSA)