This FAQ is intended to help you understand the referral bonus program. For full program details, please refer to the Employee Referral Bonus Pilot Program Policy. 

Who can participate in the program?

Most current DAC employees can participate. To be eligible, you must:

• Be a current DAC employee
• Have no active disciplinary actions 
• Not be involved in the hiring or selection process for the position 
• Not be in the candidate’s direct or indirect management chain 
• Not work in HR or supervise HR staff

Temporary employees are not eligible to receive a referral bonus.

Which positions are eligible for a referral bonus?

OSHR has approved Correctional Officer positions for the program.

What makes a referral eligible for a bonus?

To qualify for a referral bonus:

• The position must be approved for the referral program 
• The candidate must list you as the referring employee on their application 
• The candidate must be hired into the position 
• The candidate must remain employed for at least 90 days

Who is not eligible to be referred?

A referral is not eligible if the candidate:

• Is a current DAC employee, temporary employee, or contractor 
• Already has an active application on file before the referral is made 
• Previously worked for DAC within the past 12 months 
• Is an immediate family member of the referring employee

How do I refer someone?

Ask the candidate to apply and list your name as the referring employee on their initial application. No separate form is required. Names added later or through application updates will not be accepted.

Can more than one employee refer the same candidate?

Yes. A candidate can list more than one referring employee. If that happens, the bonus is split evenly among all eligible referring employees.

How much is the referral bonus?

The referral bonus is $1,000 per eligible referral. An employee may receive up to five referral bonuses per fiscal year.

How and when is the bonus paid?

Bonuses are paid in installments after the employee reaches 90 days of employment:

• 25% after 3 months of employment
• 25% after 6 months of employment
• 50% after 12 months of employment

What happens if the employee leaves before one year?

You may receive part of the bonus based on how long the employee worked. Any remaining payments will not be made if the employee leaves before reaching the next payment milestone.

Do I have to still be employed to receive the bonus?

Yes. You must be employed by DAC at the time each payment is made. The only exception is if you retire before the payment is issued.

How is the referral bonus treated for taxes and retirement?

Referral bonuses are considered income and are subject to applicable taxes. They are not included as compensation for retirement purposes.

Can I share my bonus with the person I referred?

No. Sharing a referral bonus with the referred candidate is not allowed.

Who can I contact with questions?

Contact your HR office for assistance or additional information