Is it fair for a company to ask for bonus repayment after final settlement due to an internal glitch?

[User_a20f12f8]

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User_a20f12f8
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February 28, 2025 at 1:42 pm

I worked at a company for 1 year, with my joining date on **1st January** and last working day on **27th December**. According to the company policy, only employees who are still on the payroll as of **31st December** are eligible for the annual bonus.

After my exit, I received the **full and final settlement email** stating all clearances (expenses, payroll, etc.) were completed. The **bonus amount was credited to my account** along with other dues, and I also received my **relieving letter and experience letter**.

Now, after **one month**, the company is asking me to **return the bonus amount**, claiming it was credited due to a **system glitch** and my clearance is still pending.

I assumed the bonus was part of my final settlement since no one raised any issue during the exit process. I’ve already **used the money** and don’t have the funds available to return it.

Is it fair for the company to ask for repayment now? Can I **refuse to pay back** since they had already communicated that my final settlement was complete?

Would love to hear your thoughts or if anyone has faced a similar situation!

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