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Free letter template · Word

Bonus Letter

A bonus letter informs an employee of the bonus being paid for an accounting year, commonly the festival or statutory bonus paid around Diwali, stating the eligible wages, bonus percentage, amount and payment date. It provides a clear written record of the payment.

  • Editable Word (.docx)
  • Made for India
  • 15 fill-in fields highlighted
  • Free, no sign-up

Preview of the letter

[Highlighted] = fill in
[Company Logo][Company Name]

BONUS LETTER

Ref. No.:
[Reference Number]
Date:
[Date]

To,
[Employee Name]
Employee ID: [Employee ID]
[Designation], [Department]

Subject: Bonus for the Accounting Year [FY YYYY-YY]

Dear [Employee Name],
On the occasion of [Festival Name], we are happy to share that [Company Name] will pay bonus for the accounting year [FY YYYY-YY]. The details of your bonus are given below.

ParticularsDetails
Accounting Year[FY YYYY-YY]
Days Worked in the Year[Number]
Bonus Wages for the Year₹[Amount]
Bonus Rate[Percentage]%
Gross Bonus Amount₹[Amount]
Less: TDS (if applicable)₹[Amount]
Net Bonus Payable₹[Amount]
Payment Date[DD/MM/YYYY]
Mode of PaymentBank transfer with salary / separate credit

The bonus has been calculated in accordance with the company's bonus policy and applicable law. It is a separate payment from any performance-linked incentive. Please contact [HR Name] if you have any query about the calculation.

We thank you for your hard work and wish you and your family a joyful [Festival Name].

Warm regards,

For [Company Name]
[Authorised Signatory]
[Designation]

What this template includes

  • Accounting year to which the bonus relates
  • Eligible days worked and bonus wages
  • Bonus percentage and amount
  • Payment date and mode
  • Tax treatment note
  • Festive greeting

When to use it

  • Paying the yearly bonus around Diwali, Durga Puja, Onam or Pongal
  • Communicating statutory bonus to eligible employees
  • Paying a company-wide bonus at a flat percentage
  • Recording bonus paid to staff in small and mid-sized businesses

How to customise this template

  1. 1Enter the accounting year (e.g. FY YYYY-YY)
  2. 2Calculate bonus wages per your bonus policy and applicable law
  3. 3Choose the festival greeting relevant to your region
  4. 4Use mail merge for multiple employees

HR tips

  • Check eligibility and wage ceilings under the applicable bonus law before calculation
  • Pay before the festival so employees can plan
  • Keep a bonus register signed by employees or bank proof
  • Treat performance bonus separately from statutory bonus

Statutory bonus eligibility, wage ceilings, minimum and maximum percentages and timelines are governed by applicable bonus law and the Code on Wages. Verify calculations with your payroll or legal adviser.

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Frequently asked questions

Is bonus taxable in India?+

Yes. Bonus paid to an employee is part of salary income and is subject to TDS as per the employee's tax regime.

Who is eligible for statutory bonus?+

Eligibility depends on wage limits and minimum days worked in the accounting year as set by applicable bonus law. Check the current rules for your establishment.

Is a Diwali bonus mandatory?+

A festival gift is voluntary, but statutory bonus is mandatory for covered establishments and eligible employees. Many employers pay the statutory bonus around Diwali.