Arandeep Larson 
One of the biggest questions facing managers is: How do I compile all the required information to run a bonus program? Hopefully, this article will give you a few pointers. In particular, you should be sure to identify the employees and positions that qualify for a bonus. It’s also important to define what constitutes a bonus and how it will be measured. Listed below are the steps to follow to get started:
The first step is to make sure the bonus scheme is measurable and quantifiable. You must avoid rewarding employees for meeting or exceeding performance goals if there is no way to measure them. Moreover, the bonus should be linked to performance metrics, not to the amount of compensation. Ideally, it should be linked to the company’s growth targets. However, this shouldn’t be the only factor. Bonuses can also be given to top executives in order to reward exceptional performance.
You should carefully plan the structure of the bonus program. The structure should be designed such that everyone gets something and that even the lowest performing employees can earn something. However, if you have a complex bonus structure, it may be difficult for employees to get a good bonus. In this case, you should set the lowest levels low to ensure that everyone gets something, including the low performers.
Once you have all of this information, you can proceed with the process of taxing the bonus. Bonuses are taxable as supplemental wages and should be taxed accordingly. Depending on the nature of your business, you can use the W-4 election to calculate bonus taxes. If you have a bonus, you should withhold a portion of the bonus as FICA tax and unemployment tax. You should also consider whether to tax the bonus amounts in a gross or net fashion.
There are two types of bonuses: employee and team. Employee bonuses are based on individual performance and achievement, while team and departmental bonuses are based on group goals. Group bonuses are based on the overall performance of the entire group, and all employees need to contribute to meet these goals. A well-designed bonus plan benefits the entire company, both in administration and performance. You can’t ignore the benefits of a properly structured bonus plan!
A bonus program is a great way to motivate employees and retain key employees. While they are valuable motivators, they can also be arbitrary and disconnected from the desired business goals. Before implementing a new incentive plan, make sure you test it out on a small scale and gather feedback. This will help you determine where your plan needs improvement. It will also help you identify any gaps in the plan.
