As Christmas is approaching and we’re happily preparing gifts for our friends and family, one thing that keep popping into our heads is the AWS Bonus that many people tend to get at the end of the year. After a long hard year at work, knowing that there’s an AWS Bonus makes the holiday season that much sweeter for us!
What is the AWS Bonus?
The AWS Bonus stands for Annual Wage Supplement. It is also commonly known as the 13th month bonus.
According to MOM, the AWS is a variable payment agreed between employees and employers, according to the terms of the:
- Employment contract
- Company’s employment handbook
- Collective agreement (if the company is unionised)
This means that the AWS is not a guaranteed bonus that everyone gets, and it depends on the company. MOM however, encourages companies that are doing financially well to give out the AWS as it helps to boost productivity, morale and loyalty.
We can’t agree more. Receiving a bonus is like finding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, don’t you think?
What can you do if your company doesn’t give out AWS?
Unfortunately, not everyone will receive it as it is not mandated by law. What should you do then if your company does not currently include the AWS in your contract or agreement?
You could:
- Raise it during a performance review. Usually, when a few employees request and give similar feedback during a review, the company may consider the feedback and improve their practices.
- Consult your union if you are part of one. Union leaders can negotiate better employment terms on your behalf, and that includes variable components like BONUSES! Especially in situations when the company has done financially well for the year and when employees have worked extra hard and performed well, the chances of such negotiations coming through is higher!
Do not belittle the humble AWS!
If you are lucky and are receiving AWS this month, congratulations! We hope it encourages you to continue on and work harder in the new year!