So I work for a large distribution company for local convenience chains. When I signed up to work for them, I was offered a sign on bonus of $15,000, using the following distribution schedule:
20% after 30 days
40% after 120 days
40% after 210 days
Now, this isn't a bad deal, but I remember being told that if I didn't stay for 365 days, I would have to pay it all back. I'm due for my second distribution this Friday, but I've been looking for employment elsewhere as this company really isn't good. So, to cover my ass, I decided to look at the papers I signed agreeing to the bonus and distribution schedule. Lol and behold, THERE'S NO CLAUSE THAT SAYS I HAVE TO PAY A CENT BACK! I confront my HR about this, they claim I need to pay it back. I point out that none of the forms I signed have a clause that mentions any of this, and they advance it to senior leadership to “review”. I finally call back after hours of waiting, and on a recorded line, the president of our branch pointed out (on a recorded line) that, basically, it's a lie. We don't have to pay it back once it's paid out. It's a fucking scare tactic. So, here's a lesson: always read what you sign, and if they try to tell you anything different than what is mentioned in the signed contracts, push back. You'll be surprised how easily they told. Needless to say, I'll be quitting soon as I have two interviews lined up.