What is defined as the total amount of money earned before any deductions are made?

The total amount of money earned before any deductions, such as taxes, insurance, or retirement contributions, is referred to as gross pay. This figure represents the complete earnings that an employee receives from their employer for their work during a specific period, typically a week or a month. Understanding gross pay is crucial when budgeting and planning finances, as it reflects the amount that an employee has earned before any compulsory or voluntary deductions are removed. Other terms like net pay and take-home pay relate to the amount after these deductions have been applied, highlighting the importance of knowing the difference when assessing income.