which is an operating expense

a salaries expense
b payroll expense

Both salaries expense and payroll expense are considered operating expenses. Operating expenses are the costs incurred by a company during its normal day-to-day operations.

Salaries expense refers to the amount that a company pays to its employees for their services rendered. It includes regular wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, and any other forms of compensation paid to employees.

Payroll expense, on the other hand, encompasses the entire cost associated with the employment of individuals, including not only salaries but also employer-paid taxes, benefits, and other related expenses.

To determine which of these expenses is considered an operating expense, you can refer to the company's financial statements, specifically the income statement or profit and loss statement. The income statement categorizes all expenses incurred by a company, and you can find the salaries expense and payroll expense listed under the operating expenses section.

In conclusion, both salaries expense and payroll expense are considered as operating expenses.