Which of the following is an example of a gratuity?

A gratuity is typically defined as a gift or favor given willingly, often in recognition of services provided. In this context, a surprise gift from a citizen embodies this definition, as it reflects a spontaneous act of appreciation rather than a formal exchange or obligation.

For instance, a citizen may choose to express gratitude to a corrections officer for their service through a small gift, demonstrating goodwill. This kind of gesture is inherently voluntary and does not involve any expectation of reciprocation or duty, which is a key characteristic of gratuities.

In contrast, a salary increase, a fine for misconduct, and a mandatory bonus are linked to employment contracts, disciplinary actions, or formal regulations, and therefore do not fit the criteria of a gratuity. A salary increase is part of contractual obligations, a fine represents a penalty for actions taken, and a mandatory bonus is a structured form of compensation rather than an unsolicited gift.