Christmas Bonus

[twinsufficient]

We are paying our employees (small family firm) a £500 Christmas Bonus this year. For context, we usually pay £20 but we've been fortunate this year that we're in a sector that has thrived despite Covid-19. My question is would you, as an employee, rather know in advance on 1st December that you were getting this or have it as a surprise out of the blue on the last payroll before Christmas?

Might as well be a surprise as it's no good for them to know but not be able to spend it. It's a lovely thing to do. Shame it didn't make the November payroll. Most employers wouldn't give advance notice of the amount

What a lovely thing to do. A surprise I think would be great

I think you should tell them, could it affect anyone's benefits?

What a lovely gesture, you must be a lovely employer! Normally I would enjoy the surprise, but this year with so many restrictions around what we are able to do and when I would prefer to know in advance in case it affects plans, like maybe with travel or presents, and also something to look forward to.

We had something similar a few years ago at a place I used to work and they told us in advance, most were pleased to know but a few didn't work out the tax that would be taken off and ended up disappointed as they had spent (either actually or mentally) the full amount. So if you do announce it before it's worth emphasising that tax will be taken.

If any employees are topped up with universal credit it will be counted in their assessment period and their support will be reduced. Just a heads-up.

I would tell them, for reasons as stated by pps but also the amount could make a Raj difference to some of your staff and having time to think about how / if to spend it, would be appreciated.

• Real, not Raj!