The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word SALARIES
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "they get paid" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case they get paid = salaries.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SALARIES mean?
SALARIES noun- A fixed amount of money paid to a worker, usually calculated on a monthly or annual basis, not hourly, as wages. Implies a degree of professionalism and/or autonomy.
- To pay on the basis of a period of a week or longer, especially to convert from another form of compensation.