December Bonus (13th Cheque)
2 min read — Updated February 2026
Is a December Bonus Required by Law?
No. South African law does not require employers to pay a 13th cheque or December bonus. However, it is customary and widely expected, especially for domestic workers.
If you have consistently paid a bonus every year, it may be considered a "tacit term" of employment. Suddenly stopping could lead to a dispute.
How to Calculate a Pro-Rata Bonus
The standard formula is: (Monthly salary ÷ 12) × months worked in the year. For example, if an employee earns R5,000/month and worked 8 months this year: (R5,000 ÷ 12) × 8 = R3,333.
For daily-rate workers, use their average monthly earnings instead.
SA Wages Pro sends automatic December bonus reminders and can calculate the pro-rata amount for you. Use the Bonus Calculator in our Tools section.
Adding a Bonus to a Payslip
When creating the December payslip, add the bonus amount in the "Bonus" field. It will be included in gross pay and the UIF calculation applies to the total.
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