Fixed costs can best be described as:

Fixed costs are best described as costs that remain constant regardless of output. These expenses do not vary with the level of production or sales; they must be paid even if no goods are produced or sold. Examples of fixed costs include rent, salaries of permanent staff, and insurance.

Understanding fixed costs is essential for businesses because it helps in budgeting and forecasting profitability. By knowing these costs remain stable, companies can predict how their variable costs (which do change with production levels, such as materials and labor) will affect overall profitability.

Selected options that suggest variability in costs do not accurately depict fixed costs. Costs that decrease or change with production levels are characteristic of variable costs, which fluctuate based on the output level. Costs associated with selling products might include both fixed and variable components but do not specifically define fixed costs.