Hmmm...what if a Christmas "bonus" was in my employment agreement?

Question

I know that under most circumstances Christmas bonuses are gifts - they are not obligatory. This is my first full year with my company, but there has been no mention of a bonus yet.

However, when I was hired last year I was told that "our Christmas bonus program is very generous and can make up a significant portion of one's income."

In my employment contract it states my "...annual salary is X amount of dollars, plus bonuses."

So ... does that change the nature of the bonus from voluntary to obligatory, or could I just be shi.te outta luck?

For the record, last year about a week before Christmas I got a small bonus though I had only been there a month!

I also just received a raise last week - they are happy with my work. I single-handedly run an entire department...

Answer 1

Since it does not mention a definite amount or percentage, this is probably similar to their attitude about vacation and sick leave. They are only mention it to get you in and they don't appreciate it when you bring them up. Each dollar per hour is a little over $2000.00 annually. Are these the type of men who would give an engagement ring for Christmas?

I hope you are working tomorrow and they do the right thing. Good Luck.

Answer 2

If the company you work for did not have a good year, as in a profitable year for them, they are under no obligation to hand out bonuses. Be thankful you have a job, bonus or not, there are many out there that wish they had a job.

Answer 3

sounds like you're out of luck; they mentioned bonuses in your contract but nothing specific was mentioned so they are not under any obligation...they will give out one if they feel like it.

Answer 4

no the bonuses are completely voluntary on their part. it is to motivate you to work hard. it is their discretion. you could be out of luck, especially if your employer isn't happy with your work.