Sales Representatives

Many beginning sales representatives are paid a salary while receiving their training. After assuming direct responsibility for a sales territory, they may receive only a commission (a fixed percentage of each dollar sold). Also common is a modified commission plan (a lower rate of commission on sales plus a low base salary). Some companies provide bonuses to successful representatives.

Because manufacturers' and wholesale sales representatives typically work on commission, salaries vary widely. The median annual wage for sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing (except technical and scientific products) was $66,780 in 2024, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The top 10 percent earned $134,470 or more, while the lowest-paid 10 percent made less than $37,860.

In 2024, median annual salaries (including commissions) for sales representatives-technical and scientific products were $100,070, according to the DOL. Earnings ranged from $48,840 to $194,890 or more.

Earnings can be affected by changes in the economy or industry cycles, and great fluctuations in salary from year to year or month to month are common. Employees who travel usually are reimbursed for transportation, hotels, meals, and client entertainment expenses. Door-to-door sales workers usually earn a straight commission on their sales, ranging from 10 to 40 percent of an item's suggested retail price.

Sales representatives typically receive vacation days, medical and life insurance, and retirement benefits. However, manufacturers' agents and some door-to-door sales workers do not receive benefits.