How to Calculate Bonus on Salary: Formula and Benefits Explained

Bonus Calculation as per Bonus Act 1965 states that every organisation with 20 or more employees must pay a minimum bonus of 8.33% of total wages. This bonus not only supports financial well-being but also improves employee morale and commitment. The Diwali bonus calculation generally depends on factors such as basic pay, eligibility and a fixed rate. By understanding the correct bonus calculation formula, employees can see how organisations manage bonus calculation as per the Bonus Act and receive the Diwali bonus as part of their annual earnings. This article explains everything you need to know about bonus calculation. 

How to Calculate Bonus? 

Now that you are familiar with the types of bonuses, here is a quick snapshot of the calculation of bonus. Before evaluating the formula for the calculation of bonus, you need to first check if you are eligible or not. 

As per the Bonus Act, all employees who have completed at least 30 working days are applicable for a statutory bonus, provided they meet the required criteria. While the minimum bonus is 8.33%, the maximum goes up to 20%. You can avail this bonus only if your monthly salary does not exceed ₹21,000. 

Formula for Calculating the Bonus on Salary 

The formula for the calculation of bonus is simple:

Applicable Bonus = Your Salary x 8.33/100

If your monthly salary is above ₹7,000, the calculation works like this:

Applicable Bonus = 7,000 x 8.33/100

Using both these formulas after checking your eligibility can help you easily calculate the bonus. 

Examples of Bonus Calculation

Here are a few simple examples to show how bonus is calculated across different salary ranges:

Example 1: If your salary is below ₹7,000

Let’s assume your monthly salary is ₹6,000

Step 1: Apply the formula = 6,000 x 8.33/100

Step 2: Monthly Bonus = ₹499.80

Step 3: Annual Bonus = ₹499.80 x 12 = ₹5,997.60

Example 2: If your salary is between ₹7,000 and ₹21,000

Now, let’s assume your monthly salary is ₹15,000

Step 1: Since salary exceeds ₹7,000, use the capped formula = 7,000 x 8.33/100

Step 2: Monthly Bonus = ₹583.10

Step 3: Annual Bonus = ₹583.10 x 12 = ₹6,997.20

Example 3: If your salary is above ₹21,000

Let’s say your monthly salary is ₹25,000. In this case, you will not be eligible for a statutory bonus since your salary is above ₹21,000. 

What are the Various Bonuses Available for Employees? 

There are different types of bonuses for employees distributed quarterly or annually. While some organisations may offer a one-time payment, others may make recurring payments. Remember that the bonus you earn depends on umpteen factors, such as your position in your company, your performance level, the nature of your job and much more.  

Here are a few kinds of bonuses you need to know before understanding how to calculate bonus. 

• Spot Bonus 

This kind of bonus is awarded to employees for their exceptional performance and for completing tasks over and above what was expected from them. While this can be a one-time payment, the amount depends on the level of task completed. 

• Referral Bonus 

This is an additional amount paid by the employer if an employee provides a reference for new talent. However, to avail of this bonus, the new referral needs to complete the probation period of at least 90 days. This may differ from one employer to another.  

• Annual Bonus 

These bonuses depend on the performance of a company as a whole. Here, the total amount of bonus is directly proportional to profits earned by an organisation during a financial year.  

• Holiday Bonus 

These are specific bonuses awarded to employees on select holidays and festivals. While they can take the form of gifts and vouchers, some employers also provide monetary benefits.  

• Longevity Bonus 

These bonuses are paid to employees for their significant contribution to the company across a considerable timeline. Employees may receive them either as a cash reward or in the form of an increment. This bonus gives employees a reason to stay with the organisation longer. 

Factors Affecting Bonus Calculation

Multiple factors can influence how your bonus is calculated:

• Basic salary and DA: Your bonus is calculated only on your basic salary and Dearness Allowance, not your full salary
• Eligibility: You need to have worked for at least 30 days in a financial year to qualify
• Salary limit: If your monthly salary is above ₹21,000, the statutory bonus does not apply
• Company profitability: For performance-linked or annual bonuses, the financial health of the organisation plays a major role
• Employee performance: Many organisations tie bonus amounts to individual KPIs or appraisal ratings
• Tenure and seniority: Longer-serving employees or those in senior roles may receive higher bonus percentages
• Nature of employment: Contract or part-time employees may have different bonus entitlements compared to full-time permanent staff
• Applicable surplus: Under the Payment of Bonus Act, the bonus rate between 8.33% and 20% depends on the allocable surplus available with the employer

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Bonus Calculation

Getting your bonus calculation right matters. It helps you know what you’re actually earning and also keeps things compliant for your employer. But small mistakes can easily slip in if you’re not careful. Here are a few things people often get wrong:

• Calculating it on the full salary: Bonus is only calculated on basic salary and Dearness Allowance, not your entire salary
• Forgetting the ₹7,000 cap: Even if your salary is higher, the calculation is still done on ₹7,000
• Not checking eligibility: An employee needs to complete at least 30 working days to qualify
• Missing the ₹21,000 limit: If your salary goes above ₹21,000, the statutory bonus does not apply
• Mixing up the rates: The bonus is not fixed. It starts at 8.33% and can go up to 20% depending on the company’s performance
• Not accounting for the financial year: Bonus eligibility and calculation are tied to the financial year, not the calendar year – mixing these up can lead to errors

[Source: Bonus Act 1965 – Government Of India]

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FAQs on the Calculation of Bonus 

What is a bonus in salary? 

A bonus is a token of appreciation usually given to recognise an employee’s efforts. This is the additional amount given over and above the base salary. 

What is the formula for a salary bonus? 

The formula used for the calculation of bonus is as follows: 

• Applicable Bonus = Your Salary x 8.33/100
  

Is the bonus calculated on gross salary or net salary? 

Bonus calculation is done on the gross salary. 

Is a salary above ₹21,000 eligible for a bonus? 

No. If an employee’s basic salary plus the dearness allowance exceeds ₹21,000, a bonus is not payable. 

Is it mandatory to pay a 20% bonus? 

The bonus rate is calculated between 8.33% and 20%, depending on the available surplus funds as per the Payment of Bonus Act. This Act applies only to certain employers. Remember that the maximum bonus paid depends on the employee’s total income and the compensation earned too. 

What is the bonus in CTC? 

The performance bonus is a variable element of your total CTC structure. 

What is the basic eligibility for a bonus? 

According to the Payment of Bonus Act 1965, all factories and establishments employing a total workforce of 20 or more employees need to pay a minimum bonus of 8.33% based on their total wages.