What is typically included on a W-2 form?

A W-2 form is a crucial document used in the United States for tax purposes, as it summarizes an employee's earnings and the taxes withheld from their pay for the year. Typically, it includes the employee's annual salary or wages, marking the total amount earned throughout the year. Additionally, it details the amount of federal, state, and local taxes that have been withheld from those earnings. This information is essential for employees when preparing their tax returns, as it ensures they report their income accurately and claim any refunds they may be owed based on the withheld taxes.

While information about retirement contributions might be included in some of the additional boxes or other forms, especially if they are deducted from the employee's pay, the primary focus of the W-2 is on salary and tax withholding. Similarly, employer profit margins and details about employee stock options are not relevant to this form and do not contribute to the purpose of summarizing income and tax withholdings for tax reporting. Thus, the most integral information contained on the W-2 directly relates to the employee's salary and the taxes that have been withheld.