The signing bonus has a value of at least double or more for many FAs than that of the retro pay of TA1. The retro pay of TA1 was limited to only worked TFP.
This means that anyone on a leave of absence including workers comp, those who had vacation and those who earned less on the pay scale received significantly less or nothing in retro pay. A signing bonus is given to ALL FA’s in good standing – weather on a leave of absence, medical leave, maternity leave, etc. – making it a more equitable and fair provision for everyone.
Retro Pay and a Signing Bonus are withheld at the same tax rate by our employer.