Pay · HR glossary

Bonuses

Bonuses are additional payments beyond regular base pay. They may be contractual, discretionary or linked to specified individual, team or organisational outcomes.

Example

An employer pays an annual bonus based on documented business results and individual eligibility conditions communicated at the start of the period.

What to keep in mind

The word bonus does not determine whether payment is optional or legally required. Check the contract, policy and applicable law, and distinguish target amounts from earned or approved payments.

Further reading

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