Chiropractor's $64K Bonus Battle: A Frustrating Saga Unfolds
2025-04-24
Author: Wei
The $64,500 Dilemma
A chiropractor, known only as L, is in a heated battle with a clinic he served for six years, claiming they're withholding a substantial $64,500 bonus he's owed. This clinic, operating in multiple countries including Singapore and the UK, specializes in spinal and nerve care.
Contractual Promises Frustrated
Upon completing his contract in late August 2024, L was under the impression he would receive three forms of payment: a base salary, performance commissions, and a significant end-of-contract bonus (EOB) due six months following contract termination. However, his relationship with the clinic soured when they pressured him to renew his contract prematurely.
A Salary Snafu
In June 2024, L received his last paycheck but found that July and August salaries went unpaid. The clinic argued these funds would instead be used for his income tax, a compromise L reluctantly accepted. By contract's end, his reported income was around $214,000, including the bonus that now hangs in limbo.
Ghosting and Legal Threats
When L inquired about his bonus in September 2024, he was told it would only be paid by March 2025. Despite his persistent follow-ups and even daily reminders, the clinic continued to dodge his messages until he threatened legal action.
Social Media Outcry
Hoping to gain traction, L took to Instagram, seeking advice and support from his network. His post caught the clinic’s attention, leading to a defensive response that claimed there were no salary issues, only the promised bonus delay.
Crisis Escalates with Legal Jargon
The clinic further accused L of defamation, demanding he retract his statements or face legal consequences. Despite reaching out to the Ministry of Manpower for guidance, L found himself in a bind, unable to file a salary claim due to a missed deadline.
Hope Dims as Claims Add Up
While he could file a claim with the Employment Claims Tribunal, the cap is just $20,000, forcing him to forfeit the remaining $44,000 of his bonus. L's frustration is palpable as he shares his story in hopes of finding support in this legal labyrinth.
The Clinic's Counterargument
In response to Stomp's inquiries, the clinic provided a timeline highlighting their attempts to resolve the matter amicably, including drafting letters and requesting meetings that L allegedly rejected.
A Stalemate Remains
L, however, refutes this narrative, pointing out that their communication only picked up after his social media post. He emphasizes that legal safety precautions led him to delay signing any agreements the clinic proposed. As it stands, this unfortunate saga shows no signs of resolution, leaving L's $64,500 bonus hanging in the balance.