Which type of expense would include payments for subscription services?

For the category of expenses under consideration, subscription services are typically regarded as non-essential expenses. This classification arises from the fact that while these payments are recurring and often necessary to access certain services, they are not fundamental to basic living needs or obligations. Non-essential expenses can usually be adjusted or eliminated based on individual priorities and preferences, making them discretionary in nature.

Fixed expenses, on the other hand, refer to regular, set payments that do not fluctuate over time, such as rent or mortgage payments. These are often essential to maintaining a standard level of living. Similarly, mandatory expenses are those that individuals are legally obligated to pay, such as taxes or insurance premiums.

Variable expenses include costs that can change significantly from month to month, like groceries or utility bills. Subscription services do not fall into this variable category because the payment amount typically remains constant each billing cycle.

Therefore, placing subscription payments under non-essential expenses highlights the distinction between these obligations and more traditional fixed or mandatory costs.