Create a late (backdated) paycheck in QuickBooks Payroll

You can create a paycheck with a past check date as long as it’s not direct deposit, and it's not after the tax period due date to pay taxes or file forms for that period.

Note: If you get a message to choose a more recent pay date, contact us for help.

1. Go to Payroll, then Employees.
2. Select Run payroll.
3. If asked, select a payroll schedule.
4. Change the Pay date and Pay period.
5. Select your employee and then add their salary or hours worked.
6. Pay method should be Paper check.
7. Preview and submit payroll.

If you forgot to record or send a paycheck that’s already issued to your employees, you can create an unscheduled payroll.

Note: If you use QuickBooks Desktop Payroll Assisted, you’ll be charged a $100 late fee.

1. Go to Employees, then Pay Employees, and select Unscheduled Payroll.
2. Verify the Pay Period End date.
3. Change check date to the date you paid your employees.
4. Select the employees you want to create paychecks with.
5. You can enter hours using the grid, or if you are using timesheets, you’ll see all their hours for this pay period already entered. 
6. Select Open Paycheck Detail to see everyone’s paycheck details. Clear the Use Direct Deposit option as needed.
7. Select Save & Next to go to the next employee, or select Save & Close to go back to the Enter Payroll Information window.
8. Select Continue.
9. Verify the amounts for each employee, and select Create Paychecks. If you have QuickBooks Desktop Payroll Assisted, send your payroll information to Intuit.