It's not clear what you mean by "my end of year checks" and "my end of year pay." You can't compare the gross pay on your W-2 to the net pay that you actually receive in your paychecks. The wages in box 1 of your W-2 are your gross pay, before any deductions. The amount of your paycheck is the net amount that's left after all the deductions. Ask your employer to explain the difference between the gross amount on your W-2 and the net amount that you received. Some of the things that could be deducted from your gross pay include the following.
- Federal, state, and local income tax withheld
- Mandatory state taxes for disability insurance, unemployment insurance, family leave, or other state programs
- Contributions to certain retirement plans
- Health insurance premiums
- Other benefits that you might have selected
- Union dues
- Garnishment for child support or other debts
- Contributions to charity
