Bonus payments 2026: Who gets what – and where the gaps persist

Bonus payments reflect the amount of cash bonus paid to an individual in the previous 12 months, excluding commission and non-cash rewards.

Our latest analysis highlights significant differences in who receives a bonus and how much they are paid, revealing persistent gaps by seniority, gender, job function and organisation size. This data provides useful context for assessing the reach, value and fairness of bonus arrangements.

How well do you understand the gaps and disparities within your bonus arrangements?

This report explores bonus participation and payment levels across different workforce groups, helping reward professionals benchmark current practice and assess the effectiveness of bonus strategies.

Key findings from the latest bonus payment data include:

  • Bonus participation rates across the workforce
  • Bonus values by job level and seniority
  • Highest- and lowest-paying job functions
  • The continuing gender bonus gap
  • Differences by organisation size

Download your report today

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