How much bonus to pay?

[lisa88]

We have had an Indon helper for 8 months now. We have been very fortunate that she is a good worker and devoted to our little one. Next month is the Muslim new Year and I plan to give her a bonus before then, rather than year end since the timing is more important to her and her family who receive her remittances. I have no idea what is reasonable. On one hand I would like to show our gratitude but on the other hand I do not want to go overboard. I was thinking along the lines of 1 month's bonus, considering she has been with us for less than one year. Any ideas??

 

[southside852]

it's really what you are comfortable with. we gave considered giving our helper 1 month's bonus for the New year, but instead we just gave $1000 HKD and she was more than thankful.

 

[carang]

holy moly! 1 month after only 8 months service! we've never given 1 month.

we usually give our helper $500 for xmas, $500 CNY, $500 birthday. we also get her presents like a dvd, tv etc.

 

[0ze_Kid]

I would at least pro-rata it.

Our helper had been with us for about 9 months when Christmas came around. We gave her 1 months salary (pro-rataed). Half at Christmas and half at CNY.

Remember that you need to be comfortable with it and for next year when it comes around again!

 

[starbucks2]

We gave a months salary at Christmas time. We had employed her for a year at that point. Gave her a present at her birthday and nothing at CNY (neither we nor she are Chinese).

SB2

 

[LeahH]

We give a month also at Christmas. Gifts, not money for bdays and a token amount for CNY.