What does the term "fixed expense" refer to?

The term "fixed expense" refers to an expense that does not change month to month, such as rent or mortgage payments. These expenses remain consistent over time, making budgeting easier since you can predict exactly how much you need to allocate for them every month. Fixed expenses are often contracts or agreements that require a specified payment at regular intervals, which helps with personal financial planning.

In contrast, the other options describe different types of expenses. Expenses that vary month to month are referred to as variable expenses. Those that can be easily eliminated may fall under discretionary spending. Temporary expenses refer to costs that are not ongoing or are limited to a specific period. Understanding fixed expenses is crucial for managing a budget effectively, as they typically form the backbone of necessary monthly financial outlays.