For some American workers, October could bring an unexpected third paycheck. October 2026 has five Fridays, which means employees paid weekly on Fridays will receive five paychecks, while some workers paid every two weeks could also see three paydays during the month.
That does not mean every fortnightly worker will receive an extra paycheck. Their payment dates depend on where their 14-day payroll cycle falls. The calendar gets even more unusual in 2027, when there will be 53 Fridays, creating the possibility of an additional payday for some workers during the year.