this is a business ethics question please read all before posting.?

This was quite unfair, but not illegal. You could try a class action suit, but then you'd be on their hit list.

Just remember their dishonesty and consider just how hard you've been working. Perhaps the breaks will take a bit longer, and the restroom gets used more often.

talk to a local attorney to get the details, but it sounds in line with other cases I have read of.

Unless you have a specific contract in place, individually or collectively, I believe bonuses are at the discretion of the employer.

Sucks to find out now, but still...

FWIW, when I worked for 2 companies with top IPOs in the late 90s, but the market crashed in 2000-2001, I lost discretionary income well into the 7 figures. But that is the way it goes...we all take risks in choosing our payment preferences.

Rather then taking out an ad, why not contact the local reporters? Sounds like the sort of thing they would love to publish right before the holidays, and the bad publicity might get them to reconsider.

Just the same, be aware, that the economic crisis you hear about is not abstract, and you are seeing the effects up close and personal. I am sure the company didn't take this decision lightly, and even if you can shame them into this year's bonuses, that is only going to be money they no longer can use for next year's operations. Take this as a very serious signal that the company is in financial distress, don't wait to start looking elsewhere, or if you do, do it at your own risk and peril.

That operations are busy does not mean the company is doing great financially. In fact, if your work week is extended, that tells me it is either a short term spike in the view of management, or they are really in trouble, else they would just hire more people.

Others might tell you to organize a strike or slowdown - I haven't read the previous answers yet. I don't recommend that - one thing is clear - you are hired at will, and then can simply let you go, with or without cause, with no warning. Don't bet that they won't if people start organizing - that needs to be done very very carefully in consultation with a sympathetic labor attorney if you want to stay employed at all.

Richard C..

Can't say if it's legal or not.. but the money your employer" thinks" he's saving by not paying the bonus will come back and haunt him 10 fold in employee costs and turnover.

Times are tough but you don't do this the way. You are correct in saying... this year we'll pay but next year might be different.

Were these bonus in a written contract? If so.. they would probably be legal unless there is some fine print giving the employer an out.

Hope things work out well...

Yes they can do it. You have no legal recourse. Because you have no contract with management.

PS I'm not a lawyer, but I don't think that saying they are going back to $10 is a binding contract -- as they can just say they made another management decision to eliminate bonuses

The company people picked a poor time to make this move and I can understand why you are upset but I would have to hear the companies side of the story.to give an honest opinion

Calling it a bonus , covers them ,there is nothing you can do.an ad wouldn't be illegal.