Gross Income — Definition and What It Means for Your Income
Your total income before any taxes or deductions are taken out.
Gross income is the total amount you earn before any taxes, deductions, or withholdings. This is the salary figure typically quoted in job offers and listings.
Source: IRS
Why it matters
Job offers are usually expressed in gross income, but your actual financial picture depends on what remains after taxes — your take-home or net income.
Example
A job offer of '$80,000' refers to gross income. After federal and state taxes plus FICA, actual take-home pay might be $58,000-$64,000 depending on the state.
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FAQ
Gross Income — FAQ
Is gross income the same as salary?
Yes, salary figures in job postings refer to gross income before taxes and deductions.