Commission: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definitions

Definition & Meaning

The term "commission" has several meanings, primarily relating to authority and compensation. It can refer to:

  • A formal authority granted by a government or court allowing a person to perform official duties, such as a military commission.
  • The power granted to an individual to conduct business on behalf of another, often seen in agency relationships.
  • A group of individuals authorized to perform specific public services, such as a public service commission.
  • The act of committing a crime.
  • A fee paid to an agent or employee, typically calculated as a percentage of the transaction value, such as a real estate agent's commission.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Here are a couple of examples of how commissions work:

  • A real estate agent sells a property for $300,000 and earns a 6% commission. The agent receives $18,000 as their commission.
  • (Hypothetical example) A sales associate at a retail store has a commission structure where they earn 10% on every sale after reaching a sales target of $5,000 in a month.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Commission Regulations
California Requires written agreements for commissions exceeding a certain amount.
Texas Commissions must be clearly defined in contracts to be enforceable.
Florida Specific rules govern real estate commissions and disclosures.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Fee Payment for services rendered. A fee is typically a fixed amount, while a commission is usually a percentage of a sale.
Bonus Additional compensation based on performance. A bonus is often discretionary and not tied directly to sales, unlike a commission.
Salary Fixed regular payment for employment. A salary is a guaranteed payment, while commissions depend on sales performance.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in a situation where commissions apply, consider the following steps:

  • Review your contract to understand the commission structure and payment terms.
  • Keep records of all transactions that may affect your commission.
  • If you have questions or disputes about unpaid commissions, consult a legal professional for advice.
  • You can also explore US Legal Forms for templates related to commission agreements and contracts.

Quick facts

  • Typical commission rates range from 5% to 10% in real estate.
  • Commissions are usually paid after the completion of a transaction.
  • State laws may affect how commissions are structured and paid.

Key takeaways