Santiago, Chile – Public sector employees in Chile are set to receive a vacation bonus in January 2026, a benefit designed to ease the financial burden associated with the summer holiday period. The amount of the bonus varies based on each worker’s net income as of November 2025, following annual sector negotiations to adjust the benefit.
This year’s Bono de Vacaciones, as it’s known locally, aims to support household budgets during a time when expenses related to rest and recreation typically increase. The benefit is a key component of support for public sector workers, providing a financial cushion during the peak vacation season.
According to information released by the Dirección de Presupuestos (Dipres), the bonus will be distributed in two tiers, based on income levels. Workers earning a net income of $1,060,493 Chilean pesos or less will receive $112,915 Chilean pesos. Those with a net income exceeding $1,060,493 but less than $3,511,800 Chilean pesos will receive $56,457 Chilean pesos. Dipres confirmed these amounts on February 18, 2026.
The bonus is a one-time payment intended to protect the purchasing power of state employees in the face of economic fluctuations. It’s designed to facilitate offset increased costs during a period when many families accept time off and spend more on leisure activities.
Who is Eligible for the Vacation Bonus?
Dipres has clarified that the Bono de Vacaciones is available to employees across various public sector entities. This includes centralized and decentralized state institutions, state universities, the judiciary, the National Congress, the Comptroller General of the Republic, early childhood education centers funded by JUNJI, municipalities, and Public Education Local Services, among other organizations. Chilevision reported on February 11, 2026, detailing the broad eligibility criteria.
Bonus Amounts Based on November 2025 Income
The specific amount received by each public sector worker is directly tied to their net income in November 2025. Here’s a breakdown of the bonus structure:
- $112,915 Chilean pesos: For those with a net income equal to or less than $1,060,493 Chilean pesos.
- $56,457 Chilean pesos: For those with a net income greater than $1,060,493 Chilean pesos but less than $3,511,800 Chilean pesos.
This tiered system ensures that the bonus provides greater support to those with lower incomes, whereas still offering a benefit to a wider range of public sector employees. Bonosdelgobierno.com similarly confirmed these amounts in a report published on January 5, 2026.
Payment Timeline and Benefit Details
The Bono de Vacaciones will be paid out in January 2026, providing a timely financial boost at the start of the holiday season. The benefit is non-taxable and does not constitute income for legal purposes. This means the full bonus amount will be available to employees without any deductions. Redimin.cl highlighted the one-time payment nature of the bonus on February 15, 2026.
As the payment date approaches, public sector workers are encouraged to verify their eligibility and expected bonus amount based on their November 2025 income statements. Further details and updates will be provided by Dipres and relevant public sector institutions.
Share this information with colleagues and friends in the public sector who may benefit from the Bono de Vacaciones. Leave your comments below with any questions or insights you may have.