What Is Employment Income?

Definition

Employment income (hakhnasa me'avoda) under Section 2(2) of the Income Tax Ordinance encompasses all payments and benefits received in connection with an employer-employee relationship. This includes: base salary, overtime pay, bonuses and commissions, tips, benefits-in-kind (company car, phone, meals), stock options and RSUs, severance pay, and any other compensation.

Taxable Components of Employment Income

ComponentTaxable?Special Rules
Base salaryYes (fully)Taxed at marginal rates
OvertimeYes (fully)125%/150% of hourly rate
Annual bonusYes (fully)May be taxed at cumulative rate
CommissionsYes (fully)Part of regular income
Company carYes (benefit value)~2.48% of list price/month
Meals/foodPartiallySome exempt below threshold
Stock options (102)Deferred25% at sale (capital route)
Severance payPartially exempt₪13,310 × years exempt
Training fund employer shareExempt (within limits)7.5% up to ceiling

Example – Total Taxable Income

Employee receives: ₪20,000 base salary + ₪2,000 overtime + ₪500 meal benefit + car benefit ₪3,500 = ₪26,000 taxable income per month.

Less: pension deduction (₪1,400) and NI deduction = ~₪23,500 taxable base for income tax calculation.

בסיס חוקי

  • Section 2(2) – Income Tax Ordinance (Employment income)

Important Note: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional tax advice. Consult a qualified tax advisor before making financial decisions.