Business operating expenses are the day-to-day, necessary expenditures that keep a company running. This list can include costs for supplies, payroll, rent or utilities, marketing fees, and any other fees associated with operations. They represent the ongoing costs needed to maintain a business, as opposed to one-time costs associated with launching a business such as purchasing equipment. Operating expenses must be monitored closely, as they can quickly add up and eat away at any profits made by a business. With smart budgeting and planning, businesses can better manage these sometimes unpredictable costs and stay on track for success.