For an average contractor, what percent of the total cost of a labor hour represents the "on the check" wages?

The percentage of total cost of a labor hour that is attributed to the "on the check" wages is approximately 50%. This figure reflects the direct wages that employees receive as part of their compensation package before any additional costs associated with employment.

In a typical contracting scenario, the total cost of labor not only includes the wages that are directly paid to workers but also encompasses various overhead costs such as benefits, insurance, taxes, and other indirect expenses. As a result, those "on the check" wages usually account for around half of the total labor cost. This understanding is crucial for contractors when estimating project costs, as it enables them to factor in all necessary expenses and maintain profitability while providing competitive bids.

While other options suggest higher percentages, they do not accurately represent the standard distribution of labor costs in most contracting situations where direct wages alone cover about half of the total cost structure associated with labor.