Operating Expenses: What They Are and How They Affect Your Business

Definition & Meaning

Operating expenses refer to the costs a business incurs during its regular operations. These expenses are necessary for maintaining day-to-day activities and do not include capital expenditures, which are investments in long-term assets. Common examples of operating expenses include salaries, rent, utilities, and insurance premiums.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A small retail store pays $3,000 monthly for rent and $1,500 for employee salaries. These amounts are classified as operating expenses.

Example 2: A tech startup incurs $500 for internet services and $2,000 for software subscriptions each month, both of which are operating expenses. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Operating Expenses Costs incurred during normal business operations. Non-capital, recurring costs.
Capital Expenses Investments in long-term assets. One-time costs for assets like equipment or buildings.
Fixed Costs Costs that do not change with the level of production. Can be part of operating expenses but are not the same.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are managing a business, it's essential to track your operating expenses accurately. Consider using financial software or templates available on US Legal Forms to help organize your expenses. If your situation involves complex financial or legal issues, consulting a professional may be beneficial.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical fees Varies by business type and operations.
Jurisdiction Applicable across all states.
Possible penalties Inaccurate reporting can lead to tax penalties.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Examples include rent, utilities, salaries, and office supplies.