The Christmas bonus is one of the most anticipated moments of the year for most workers and pensioners. With the arrival of November and the lights announcing the festive season, many are already counting down the days until they see the extra amount on their bank statement. But who is entitled, when is it paid and how is the amount calculated?
According to the Labor Code, all employees are entitled to a Christmas bonus equivalent to one month’s wages, which must be paid by December 15th of each year. The rule applies to both the public and private sectors, although with differences in the payment schedule.
When do you receive the Christmas allowance
According to Santander bank, the Christmas bonus arrives at different times depending on the professional relationship:
- Private sector workers: receive until December 15th;
- Public employees: payment is made in November;
- Caixa Geral de Aposentações pensioners: they also receive in November, along with their pension;
- Social Security retirees: receive in December, at the same time as their pension.
Most private sector workers will only see it credited in mid-December, while in the public sector the amount is usually anticipated.
Who is entitled to the Christmas allowance
According to Santander, all workers with an employment contract are entitled to the subsidy, whether in the public sector or the private sector. The right also extends to company administrators and managers, if contractually provided for, and to pensioners.
Workers on parental leave and in a situation of illness are also covered, as long as they maintain an active employment relationship.
However, self-employed workers and beneficiaries of voluntary social insurance are not entitled to this benefit. Those who are on long leave and receive benefits due to occupational illness are also excluded.
How the value of the Christmas allowance is calculated
The calculation is simple: the subsidy corresponds to the gross monthly salary, excluding meal allowance or other non-salary supplements.
However, those who have not yet completed one year of their contract only receive the amount proportional to their actual working time. The formula recommended by Santander is as follows:
Christmas Allowance = (Base Pay / 365) × Number of days worked
For example, a worker with a gross salary of 1,000 euros, hired in June, will receive around 501 euros in December: an amount corresponding to six months of work.
Pay attention to absences and deductions
Unjustified absences or long periods of sick leave can reduce the amount of the benefit, as only days actually worked count. Furthermore, the gross amount is subject to IRS withholdings and Social Security deductions, just like the monthly salary.
The extra that makes a difference at the end of the year
With rising prices and the weight of Christmas expenses, the Christmas bonus is more than a labor right: it is an essential addition to the family budget. It is used to balance accounts, pay off credits or simply enjoy rest and the festive season with more peace of mind.
The Christmas bonus must be paid by December 15th, it is equivalent to one month’s salary and applies to all workers with an active contract, but the amount may vary depending on seniority, absences and professional relationship.
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