Not sure I completely understand your question, but I think you can base bonuses on anything you want as long as you're not breaking discrimination laws. You're basically asking if you can base bonuses on merit and the answer should be yes, although my guess is there would be some variability depending on the state. Ideally clearly define and document the parameters you're using.

Whether it's the best mechanism to address the problem is a different question that would be your call. My gut feeling is you could find a better way. There is the risk of causing some hard feelings and possibly worse if employees feel they were not treated equally.

Randy
Solo FP
Iowa