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Let me be more precise. What isn't it wages for a hour(s) worked? Once again you actually have to show up and work your first day to collect a signing bonus. I have never seen a signing bonus that is paid if the guy shows up and says, "I am here were do I sign for my bonus-- oh thanks for letting me sign I quit mail me my check!" You have to actually perform some labor in order to get that bonus. In all the years I have worked in this field this is the first time I think I have had anyone try and make the case this isn't just simple wages. I have never seen someone try and make the case this group is trying to make that you can exclude it as a fringe benefit. To me it is W-2 wages if your plan uses any of the safe harbor definitions of compensation it has to be included.

It's cash. IMHO, the term "fringe benefit" was originally created to cover things that are not cash.