What does gross pay represent?

Gross pay refers to the total cash earnings an employee receives before any deductions are applied. This figure includes not only the base salary but also any additional earnings such as bonuses, overtime pay, and any other forms of compensation. It represents the entire amount paid before taxes, employee benefits, and other withholdings are deducted, providing a comprehensive view of a worker's earnings.

The other options do not accurately describe gross pay. The amount received after taxes is referred to as net pay, which is calculated after all mandatory and voluntary deductions have been taken from the gross pay. Net income after all expenses typically pertains to the business context rather than individual earnings, and focusing solely on base salary does not capture the full earnings potential of an employee, as it excludes bonuses and other forms of compensation that contribute to gross pay.