End-of-Year Bonus in the Collective Labour Agreement for Rijswijk Employees
An end-of-year bonus in the CAO offers Rijswijk employees a welcome extra payment at the end of the year, as recognition for their annual dedication. Although this is not required by law, it is established in the collective labour agreement (CAO) for various sectors or companies in the region. It can be a fixed amount or a percentage of the annual salary, and often serves as a thirteenth month. In this article, we discuss the rules, rights, and local practices, with tips for residents of Rijswijk.
What is an end-of-year bonus?
The end-of-year bonus CAO acts as a bonus or gratuity that employers in Rijswijk pay to their staff, typically in November or December. It motivates employees and rewards their contributions over the past year. Unlike the legally required holiday allowance, this bonus depends on CAO agreements. It is a common employment condition especially in local sectors such as retail or construction in the Rijswijk-The Hague region. The amount often amounts to 8.33% of the gross annual salary, which after deductions results in a net thirteenth month.
Note: not all CAOs in Rijswijk include this. If it's not mentioned in your CAO or individual contract, you cannot claim it. Check your CAO via the website of your trade union, employer, or the Rijswijk Legal Aid Office for free advice.
Legal basis of the end-of-year bonus
The end-of-year bonus does not stem directly from the law but falls under Dutch employment law in Book 7 of the Civil Code (BW). Article 7:613 BW emphasizes the CAO as key to employment conditions. These agreements bind employers and employees in the sectors involved and are approved by the Minister of Social Affairs and Employment.
Without a CAO, the bonus may be in the general terms (Article 7:611 BW). The Act on Collective Labour Agreements (WCAO) describes its formation and application. For tax purposes, it counts as salary (Wage Tax Act 1964, Article 10), but under the work-related costs scheme (WKR), exemptions are possible if it is not standard salary.
In Rijswijk, the Labour Inspectorate SZW supervises compliance. If there are violations, you can file a complaint with the Rijswijk District Court (Article 7:670 BW), or start with the Rijswijk Legal Aid Office for support.
Practical examples of end-of-year bonus
Take a job in the retail sector under the CAO for Retail, relevant for shops in Rijswijk. Here, there is often a bonus of 4% of the annual salary in December. With a gross annual salary of €30,000, you receive an extra €1,200, which is added to your December salary and subject to wage tax.
In the healthcare sector, such as at hospitals near Rijswijk (CAO for Hospitals), it depends on years of service. A nurse with 10 years of experience receives a larger percentage than a newcomer. In case of bankruptcy, you can claim outstanding amounts, including the bonus, through the UWV (Unemployment Act, Article 87). For self-employed persons (zzp'ers) in Rijswijk, this does not apply unless separately agreed, which underscores the importance of a CAO contract.
Rights and obligations regarding the end-of-year bonus
Employees in Rijswijk are entitled to the end-of-year bonus CAO if it is included in the CAO and you meet the requirements, such as a full year of service or sufficient working weeks. Your obligation is to comply with your contract; in case of illness or dismissal, it is paid pro rata (for example, 6/12 if dismissed mid-year).
Employers must pay on time and explain the calculation. Deductions are only allowed for valid reasons, such as breach of contract. In disputes: start internally, then involve your trade union or the Rijswijk Legal Aid Office for mediation.
Conditions for the bonus
- You must be employed on the reference date, often December 31.
- Pro rata adjustment for part-time or mid-term appointments.
- Exceptions for disciplinary sanctions.
Comparison: End-of-Year Bonus versus other allowances
| Aspect | End-of-Year Bonus | Holiday Allowance | Thirteenth Month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal basis | CAO (BW 7:613) | Statutory (BW 7:637) | CAO or contract |
| Amount | Variable, e.g., 4-8% of annual salary | 8% of holiday pay | 1 month salary |
| Payment time | November/December | May/June | End of year |
| Taxation | Wage tax | Wage tax | Wage tax |
The end-of-year bonus is similar to the thirteenth month, but holiday allowance is always mandatory. In the Rijswijk context, also check our article on End-of-Year Bonus and Thirteenth Month, or consult the Municipality of Rijswijk for local employment initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an end-of-year bonus mandatory for my employer?
No, not legally, but yes via the CAO. Check with your trade union, employer, or the Rijswijk Legal Aid Office.
When do I receive the bonus if I have been ill?
Generally pro rata based on periods worked. After 52 weeks of illness, it may lapse; check your CAO or seek advice from the Rijswijk Legal Aid Office.