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This tax-free bonus was introduced to encourage companies to share their profits with their employees. However, this initiative, which initially aroused a lot of enthusiasm, no longer seems to be unanimous.
The situation has become even more complicated with recent government censorship, which risks worsening the phenomenon, explains MoneyVox.
The end of prime Macron?
Since its establishment, the Macron bonus has experienced ups and downs. Initially, companies and employees welcomed it, as it benefited each party.
In the case of the employer, this bonus, exempt from social charges and taxes, represents a significant saving for his business. In addition, it can motivate and retain employees
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For employees, this bonus represents an increase in their purchasing power. It also makes it possible to recognize the efforts of employees, in particular those whose remuneration is less than three times the minimum wage.
However, the latest statistics show a notable drop in its use. In 2024, only 18% of companies paid this bonus, compared to 24% the previous year.
“This year, less than 500 million euros were paid to employees via this bonus, compared to 1.2 billion over the same period of 2023, according to Urssaf data specified by Les Echos”reports MoneyVox
This reduction can be explained by several factors, notably the taxation of the bonus for companies with more than 50 employees. The recent censorship of the Barnier government has only made the situation worse.
The motion of censure adopted led to the fall of the government. However, this political instability creates uncertainty which could further dissuade companies from paying this tax-free bonus.
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Indeed, without a stable legislative framework, employers are hesitant to engage in initiatives that could be called into question at any time.
“According to the Alixio firm survey, 4% of companies plan to pay the Macron bonus in 2025. A percentage which risks being further reduced with government censorship and the (temporary?) absence of a budget for 2025”noted MoneyVox.
Taxes: The drop in the Macron bonus and its consequences on the purchasing power of employees
For employees, the reduction in the Macron bonus is bad news. This bonus represented a significant additional source of income, especially in times of economic crisis.
In 2023, nearly 6 million employees had benefited from this bonus, with amounts of up to 6,000 euros. The reduction in its payment in 2024 means a loss of purchasing power for many workers.
“On the other hand, for employees whose remuneration is less than three minimum wages and who are part of a company with fewer than 50 employees, the Macron bonus is exempt from income tax until December 31, 2026”souligne MoneyVox.
Right now, the future of the Macron bonus seems more uncertain than ever. Government censorship and taxing of the bonus have created a climate of distrust among businesses.
It is possible that this situation is only temporary. If a new government is formed and adopts new budgetary texts for 2025, exemptions from employer contributions could resume. This would allow companies to continue paying this bonus tax-free.
Source : MoneyVox
