What Negative Accrual Means in Veterinary Compensation

Negative accrual can affect when production-based compensation is earned. Here is the concept in straightforward terms.

Simple definition

In a plan with negative accrual, a shortfall between the production calculation and the guarantee may carry forward into a future period. Future production surplus may first have to offset that prior shortfall before additional production compensation is earned.

Example

Period 1

Guarantee: $10,000

Production-based amount: $8,500

Estimated shortfall: $1,500

Period 2

Production exceeds the guarantee by $2,000.

If the prior $1,500 deficit carries forward, the first $1,500 may offset that deficit, leaving an estimated $500 surplus.

Questions to ask

  • Does negative accrual apply?
  • How long can a deficit carry forward?
  • Does the deficit reset annually or at another interval?
  • What happens to a deficit if employment ends?

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