While worker bonuses decrease, pay transparency is on the rise in 2026

Good morning!

For many, the start of a new year can mean the start of performance review and raise season. But recent ADP data shows the share of U.S. workers receiving bonuses has been falling since 2021. 

Less than 40% of employees received a bonus last year, down from 44% in 2021. And in 2024, the average bonus payout was $1,786, down from $1,857 a year earlier, according to the study.  

That’s not the only pay-related trend to watch in 2026. Pay transparency will also be a hot topic this year...