What Is Long-Service Award? | HR Glossary | BambooHR
Recognition given to employees for reaching significant milestones of continuous service.
A long-service award is a form of recognition — a gift, additional leave, a payment or an event — given to employees who reach notable milestones of continuous service, such as ten, twenty or twenty-five years. It signals that loyalty and long-term contribution are valued.
Beyond the gesture itself, long-service awards support retention and culture, marking a shared history between the employee and the organisation. Many employers publicise them to reinforce a sense of belonging and stability.
Where awards take a monetary or gift form, their tax treatment matters. In Ireland, long-service awards can qualify for favourable tax treatment within specific limits and conditions, so schemes should be designed with current Revenue rules in mind.
