Understanding tax implications of holiday bonuses and gifts

05/12/2024

As the festive season approaches, many employers consider rewarding their employees with holiday bonuses or gifts as a token of appreciation. While these gestures can boost morale and foster goodwill, it’s essential to understand their tax implications to avoid unexpected liabilities.

Here, we provide an overview of how holiday perks are treated for tax purposes in the UK, with guidance for both employers and employees.

Holiday bonuses

Holiday bonuses, whether monetary or in the form of vouchers, are considered taxable income.

For employers:

  • Income tax: Bonuses are subject to PAYE (Pay As You Earn), meaning employers must deduct income tax and National Insurance Contributions (NICs) before payment.
  • Employer NICs: The business is also liable for employer NICs on the bonus amount.
  • Reporting requirements: Bonuses must be reported through payroll in the usual way.

For employees:

  • Bonuses are added to your total earnings for the tax year and taxed according to your marginal tax rate. This may push some employees into a higher tax bracket temporarily. 

Tip for employers: Consider discussing the net impact of bonuses with employees, as they may receive less than the gross amount due to deductions.

Non-cash gifts

Non-cash gifts, such as hampers, wine, or event tickets, may qualify as trivial benefits if they meet specific conditions, but not all gifts are tax-free.

Trivial benefits exemption:
For a gift to be tax-free:

  • It must cost £50 or less per employee.
  • It cannot be cash or a cash voucher.
  • It cannot be a reward for work or performance.
  • It must not be part of the employee’s contract.

 For employers:

  • Gifts that qualify as trivial benefits are exempt from income tax and NICs and do not need to be reported to HMRC.
  • If the gift exceeds the £50 limit, the full value becomes taxable.

 For employees:

  • Gifts that meet the trivial benefits criteria do not affect your taxable income.

However, taxable gifts will be treated as a benefit-in-kind and subject to income tax.

Staff parties and events

End-of-year parties are a popular way to celebrate the festive season, and these may be exempt from tax if certain criteria are met.

A staff party or an annual function qualifies as a tax-free benefit for your employees providing that you meet the following conditions:

  • The total cost must not exceed £150 per head, per year.
  • £150 includes VAT together with any extra costs such as transport and accommodation.
  • The £150 is a limit and not an allowance: if the cost is £151, the whole benefit is taxable.
  • The event must be primarily for entertaining staff.
  • The event must be open to all staff (in that location, if you have several branches or departments).
  • The event must not just be for directors unless all your staff are directors.

Employer recommendations

  • Plan early: Determine the tax implications before offering bonuses or gifts.
  • Utilise exemptions: Take advantage of the trivial benefits and annual event exemptions where possible.
  • Keep accurate records: Maintain documentation of gifts, bonuses, and event costs to simplify reporting and compliance.
  • Consult a professional: For tailored advice, speak to your accountant to ensure all holiday perks are tax efficient.

How JW Hinks can help

At JW Hinks, we understand the complexities of employer obligations during the holiday season. Our expert team can guide you through the tax implications of seasonal perks, ensuring compliance while maximising benefits for your team.

Get in touch with us today to make the most of your holiday generosity without falling foul of HMRC rules.

Get in touch

JW Hinks LLP
19 Highfield Road, Edgbaston,
Birmingham B15 3BH

Phone: +44 (0) 121 456 0190
Fax: +44 (0) 121 456 0191
Email: info@jwhinks.co.uk