Form element labels in HTML are descriptive text or elements that communicate the purpose of an associated form control (such as an input field, checkbox, or radio button) to users. Labels help both sighted users and users of assistive technologies, like screen readers, understand what kind of information is expected in a form field.

An example of a form field with an explicit label:

The following form elements should have labels:

There are two exceptions:

Effective form labels are essential for ensuring forms are accessible. Screen reader users cannot understand what is expected in a form's input fields without labels.

While the purpose of form elements like checkboxes or input fields may be visually apparent to sighted users, these elements must be programmatically labeled to be useful for screen reader users. Screen readers rely on labels to associate information with input elements, and without this relationship (or redundant text serving as a label), the purpose of the input remains unclear. Labeling all form elements eliminates confusion and creates a more inclusive experience.

A lack of labels also has additional drawbacks. Fields without labels cannot receive proper focus when navigated by screen readers. Additionally, users with motor impairments miss out on the benefit of an expanded clickable area, as clicking on the label is designed to activate the associated control.