Which of the following is NOT considered a fixed cost?

Utilities are generally not considered a fixed cost because their expenses can fluctuate based on usage, consumption levels, and seasonal changes. Depending on the nature of the business, utility bills can vary greatly from month to month. This makes them more of a variable cost, as they can change in response to the level of activity within the business.

In contrast, rent, salaries, and insurance are typically fixed costs. Rent remains constant regardless of business activity, salaries often represent steady payments to employees over time, and insurance premiums are usually paid at fixed intervals with predetermined amounts. Understanding the distinction between fixed costs, which do not change with business operations, and variable costs, which do, is vital for effective financial planning and budgeting within a business.