The date you actually receive your paycheck, usually 3-7 days after the pay period ends.
The pay date is when your wages are disbursed and your bank account is credited. It typically falls 3-7 days after the end of the pay period to allow time for payroll processing. State laws regulate how quickly employers must pay after the period ends. For direct deposit, funds must be available by the pay date. Paper checks may take an additional 1-2 days to clear.