Rationale for Award: Provide a brief explanation of why the bonus is being awarded. This bonus will be paid in one lump sum in a separate check on the next regularly scheduled pay date.State agencies may use recruitment or retention bonuses to provide additional financial incentives to attract, hire or retain eligible key classified staff. The document should clearly state the bonus amount, either as a percentage of the employee's salary or as a fixed amount. An example retention bonus agreement to retain an employee during a merger or acquisition. How to fill out the SimplyMerit Sample Merit and Bonus Adjustment Letters? 1. Locate the specified placeholders within the template. 2. Then, I would find out whose job training new employees is a part of. The signing bonus is taxable, all regular payroll taxes will be withheld. Summary of Texas Employment Laws: Commission and Bonus Laws.