Do I lose my bonus if I resign before payout?

Lose your bonus if you resign before payout? See fair wording for earned bonus and a polite request to protect pay you already earned.

The risky clause

To be eligible for any bonus, the Employee must be in service on the payout date and not under notice. Otherwise all bonus entitlement is forfeited.

Why it is dangerous

Payouts are often months after the performance year, so this clause can wipe out pay you already earned. Ask for pro-rata payment for the period worked, or payment of any bonus earned before the notice date. This is general information, not legal advice.

Safer clause to propose

Any bonus earned for a completed performance period shall be paid even if the Employee resigns after the period ends. For a partial period, the bonus shall be paid pro rata for the months served.

Message to send

Hi [HR Name],

Could the bonus clause pay earned bonus for completed periods and pro rata for partial periods, even if I resign before the payout date? Thank you, [Your Name]

Frequently asked questions

Is a 'must be employed on payout date' clause common?

Yes, many companies use it. It is still negotiable and should be checked against your promised pay.

Can I get a pro-rata bonus?

Ask for it in writing. Some companies agree for the months you worked.

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