You agreed to an hourly rate, worked your shifts and did the calculation. Then the payment arrives — and the number is smaller. Before assuming something is wrong, look at what the two numbers actually represent.
Two numbers, two different jobs
Gross pay is what you earned before deductions. Net pay is what remains after deductions and is paid to you. An hourly rate describes earnings; it does not promise the same amount will reach your account.
Imagine earning $20 an hour for 12 hours. Gross pay would be $240. If deductions totaled $25, net pay would be $215. These are illustrative numbers, not a tax estimate: your actual deductions depend on your situation.
A smaller payment can still deserve a question
U.S. payroll deductions may include federal income tax and Social Security and Medicare taxes. Federal income tax withholding generally depends on information supplied on Form W-4. Other deductions can also appear on a pay statement.1
That explains why gross and net pay differ. It does not explain away missing hours or an incorrect rate. Compare the pay period, hours and rate with your own record. A first payment might cover only part of the time you have worked.
For everyday spending decisions, the useful starting number is the money you actually receive. You can be proud of your hourly rate and still build your plans around take-home pay.
Sources & further reading
Examples are illustrative. Financial and employment references relate to the United States.