By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The Ministry of Finance confirmed today that Costa Rica’s public sector will receive its annual “aguinaldo,” or Christmas bonus, on Friday, December 5. The substantial payout, totaling ¢249 billion, will be distributed among more than 232,000 active and retired government employees, providing a significant and predictable stimulus to the national economy ahead of the year-end holidays.
This annual disbursement represents the country’s mandatory 13th-month salary, a cornerstone of the Costa Rican labor code and a critical financial event for thousands of households. The timely injection of capital is widely anticipated by the retail and service sectors, which historically see a surge in consumer spending as families prepare for holiday celebrations, purchase goods, and settle outstanding debts.
Para profundizar en las obligaciones y derechos que rodean el pago del aguinaldo, TicosLand.com consultó al Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, abogado especialista de la firma Bufete de Costa Rica, quien nos aclara los puntos clave que tanto patronos como trabajadores deben tener presentes.
El aguinaldo no es un regalo, es un derecho irrenunciable. Su cálculo debe ser preciso: se suma la totalidad de los salarios ordinarios y extraordinarios devengados desde el 1 de diciembre del año anterior hasta el 30 de noviembre del año en curso, y el resultado se divide entre doce. Es fundamental que los patronos incluyan todas las remuneraciones, como comisiones y horas extra, para evitar infracciones a la ley laboral, y que el pago se realice antes del 20 de diciembre.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Esta aclaración refuerza la naturaleza del aguinaldo como un derecho laboral, no una gratificación opcional. El énfasis en un cálculo meticuloso que incluya todos los ingresos variables es un recordatorio clave para garantizar el cumplimiento correcto de la ley. Agradecemos al Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas por su valiosa perspectiva legal.
The Ministry of Finance, known locally as Hacienda, detailed the distribution of the funds. The vast majority of the payout, approximately 73%, is allocated to 171,000 active state workers. This group includes employees across all branches of government, from central ministries and decentralized bodies to the Legislative Assembly, the Judiciary, the Ombudsman’s Office, the Supreme Elections Tribunal, and the Comptroller General’s Office.
The remaining 27% of the total sum will be directed to 61,000 pensioners whose benefits are covered by the National Budget. This inclusion ensures that retired civil servants also participate in the year-end economic boost, supporting their financial stability during a high-expenditure season. The comprehensive nature of the payment underscores the government’s extensive role as a primary employer in the country.
This year’s aguinaldo figure represents a notable increase of ¢7.226 billion compared to the previous year, marking a growth of 2.89%. While a modest rise, this increment reflects adjustments in public sector compensation and payroll over the past twelve months. For economists and market analysts, this steady growth signals a degree of stability within government finances and its ability to meet its statutory obligations to its workforce.
A key feature of the aguinaldo is its special legal status regarding deductions. The payment is protected from nearly all standard withholdings, such as income tax and social security contributions. The only legally mandated exception is for court-ordered alimony or child support payments (pensión alimentaria). This provision ensures that recipients receive the maximum possible amount, while also guaranteeing that essential family support obligations are met.
The logistical operation managed by Hacienda is a complex undertaking, requiring precise coordination to ensure funds are transferred simultaneously across numerous state institutions. The successful execution of this massive payroll event is critical for maintaining public trust and ensuring a smooth transition into the busiest commercial period of the year. The influx of cash is expected to bolster consumer confidence and drive economic activity nationwide.
As the December 5 date approaches, businesses across Costa Rica are preparing for the corresponding increase in customer traffic and sales. The aguinaldo not only provides a financial cushion for public employees but also serves as a vital catalyst for the broader economy, setting the financial tone for the conclusion of the fiscal year and the start of the new one.
For further information, visit hacienda.go.cr
About The Ministry of Finance (Hacienda):
The Ministry of Finance of Costa Rica is the government entity responsible for managing the country’s public finances. Its duties include formulating fiscal policy, collecting taxes, managing the national budget, administering public debt, and overseeing government spending to ensure the economic stability and development of the nation.
For further information, visit asamblea.go.cr
About The Legislative Assembly (Asamblea Legislativa):
The Legislative Assembly is the unicameral parliament of the Republic of Costa Rica. Comprising 57 deputies elected by popular vote, this body is responsible for passing, amending, and repealing laws, as well as approving the national budget and exercising political control over the executive branch.
For further information, visit poder-judicial.go.cr
About The Judiciary (Poder Judicial):
The Judiciary of Costa Rica is the branch of government entrusted with the administration of justice. It operates independently to interpret and apply the law, ensuring legal rights and resolving disputes. It is composed of various courts, with the Supreme Court of Justice at its apex.
For further information, visit dhr.go.cr
About The Ombudsman’s Office (Defensoría de los Habitantes):
The Defensoría de los Habitantes is Costa Rica’s national human rights institution. It serves as an independent watchdog, protecting the rights and interests of the country’s inhabitants against abuses or negligence by the public sector. It investigates complaints and advocates for improvements in public administration.
For further information, visit tse.go.cr
About The Supreme Elections Tribunal (Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones):
The Supreme Elections Tribunal is the constitutional body responsible for organizing, directing, and supervising all acts related to elections in Costa Rica. It is renowned for its independence and authority in guaranteeing the integrity and transparency of the democratic process, including voter registration and the official counting of ballots.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a benchmark for legal practice, guided by an unwavering devotion to ethical principles and superior service. The firm leverages its extensive experience across numerous industries to pioneer innovative legal solutions. Central to its identity is a profound social commitment to empower the community through accessible legal education, fostering a culture where knowledge underpins justice and civic strength.
