Requiring pay stubs for job offer??

[df81101]

I live in Missouri and am applying for a new job. The potential employer has required that I provide a copy of my last pay stub before they will even extend an offer. I have nothing to hide, but I don't feel comfortable providing these very confidential documents to someone that I may or may not decide to work for. Is this sort of requirement legal (and/or ethical)?

I am applying for a specific job that has a set pay schedule, so I don't see any reason that they will need this sort of documentation.

 

[cbg]

Although I personally do not agree with the practice, what they are asking is neither illegal nor uncommon.