Festival Bonus for Domestic Help — How Much and When to Give

Festival bonuses are one of the most discussed and least standardized aspects of employing domestic help in India. How much? When? What about leave? This guide covers everything based on common practices across Indian cities.

Standard Festival Bonus

The widely accepted norm across India: one month's salary as Diwali bonus. This applies regardless of religion — Diwali is the traditional bonus time for most domestic workers. Some Muslim households give Eid bonus instead; some give both smaller amounts.

When to Pay

• Diwali: Pay 3-5 days before Diwali so they can shop and celebrate
• Eid: Pay 2-3 days before Eid
• Christmas: Applicable in Kerala, Goa, Northeast — pay before Dec 24
• Regional festivals: Pongal, Onam, Baisakhi, Chhath — smaller bonus (₹500-₹2,000) is appreciated

Bonus Amounts by Experience

Festival Leave

Diwali: 2-3 days off minimum. If your maid is from another state and needs to travel home, 5-7 days is reasonable. Plan ahead — arrange backup or manage for those days. Advance notice of at least 2 weeks should be expected from both sides.