The economy may be far from booming, but many Canadians are still expecting to get a bonus from their employer this year.

A poll conducted for the Bank of Montreal suggests that one quarter of working Canadians expect a year-end bonus.

And of those anticipating the extra money, 86 per cent believe it will be the same amount or more than last year.

The Pollara online survey results follow widespread reports that many corporations are sitting on piles of cash, despite the difficult economic conditions.

The poll indicates that half of those expecting a bonus plan to use it to boost their savings or pay down debt.

The next most popular way to spend it is on holiday shopping.