Tasustama

Tasustama is an Estonian verb meaning to provide financial compensation for time, work, services, or resources, or to remunerate someone for what they have done. The related noun tasustamine denotes the act or process of paying such remuneration. The term is used across contexts where money is given in exchange for effort or services. It coexists with related terms such as palk (salary), tasu (remuneration or fee), and tasuline (paid), each with nuance about form and regularity of payment.

Usage: In employment, tasustamine is typically realized as wages or salary. In contracts with freelancers or consultants, payment for services is a form of tasustamine. In research, studies, or volunteer programs, participants may be tasustatud (compensated) for time and expenses, often with ethical guidelines ensuring that compensation covers burden without creating coercion.

Etymology: The word stems from tasu, meaning fee or remuneration, combined with the verb-forming suffix -stama.

Legal and practical notes: In Estonia, payment of wages is governed by the Labour Code and contract law, with taxes and social contributions applicable to remuneration. Reimbursement for expenses is common and should be supported by receipts or records. The term highlights financial recognition of work, services, or opportunity cost.