Wages are a form of payment for work or labor. They are typically calculated on an hourly, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis and paid to employees in exchange for the services they provide to an employer.

Wages may be subject to deductions such as federal and state taxes, Social Security and Medicare taxes, insurance premiums, and 401(k) contributions. The amount of wages an employee earns depends on several factors, including the employee's job duties, the industry they work in, their level of experience, and the state or country they work in.

In addition to wages, many employers also offer other forms of compensation, such as bonuses, benefits, and paid time off. The combination of wages and benefits is referred to as total compensation and it is a key factor in attracting and retaining employees.

Wages play a crucial role in an employee's financial security and well-being, and they are an important consideration for both employees and employers. Employers must ensure that they are paying their employees fairly and in compliance with relevant labor laws and regulations.