Walmart announced an additional $700 million in cash bonuses to its U.S.-based associates on Dec. 4 bringing its total 2020 quarterly and special cash bonuses for its U.S.-based associates to more than $2.8 billion.
The company’s latest bonus announcement includes $3.4 million in quarterly bonuses paid to New Jersey associates in their Nov. 25 paychecks following strong third-quarter business performance and an estimated $5 million in special cash bonuses to be paid to New Jersey associates on Dec. 24 in recognition of associates’ sustained commitment to customers during the pandemic. Full and part-time associates are eligible for both bonuses.
“As we come to a close on this historic year, I’m filled with gratitude for how our associates have led through one of the most trying periods for our company and country,” said John Furner, president and CEO – Walmart U.S. “Our associates have stepped up to serve our customers, communities and each other when it was truly needed most, and we’re pleased to recognize their efforts with a quarterly bonus for strong store performance and a fourth special cash bonus.”
Approximately 1.5 million full- and part-time Walmart and Sam’s Club associates working in the company’s stores, clubs, distribution centers and fulfillment centers will receive the special cash bonus on Dec. 24. It will be Walmart’s fourth special cash bonus paid to U.S. associates since the start of the pandemic.
Meanwhile, Walmart also announced an extension of its COVID-19 leave policy through July 5, 2021. Earlier this year, Walmart announced a first-of-its-kind COVID-19 Emergency Leave policy for part-time and full-time associates, which provides associates with up to two weeks of pay should they need to stay home for COVID-related reasons, including mandated quarantines, symptoms or illness. If they’re not able to return to work after that time, additional pay replacement may be provided for up to 26 weeks. Absences associated with an approved COVID-19 leave will not be counted against associates.
