How is gross pay defined?

Gross pay is defined as the total amount earned before any deductions are taken out. This includes all wages, salaries, bonuses, overtime pay, and any other earnings before taxes and other withholdings like Social Security or health insurance are deducted. Understanding gross pay is crucial as it represents the total financial compensation an employee receives for their work during a specific period, and it serves as the starting point for calculating net pay, which is what employees actually take home after deductions. Recognizing this distinction is essential for financial planning and budgeting.