A Sunday Post probe has revealed that almost £8 million was paid out to rank-and-file recruits up to the level of chief inspector in the last financial year.
Officers can cash in on the payments of up to £1,250 when they show they have a good attendance record and display commitment to police service values.
The revelation comes despite scandal-hit Police Scotland laying off thousands of civilian jobs and facing an £85m budget black hole.
Similar payments – known as Competency-Related Threshold Payments – are due to be scrapped in England and Wales following a public outcry.
Fred McManus, former president of the Association of Scottish Police Superintendents, said: “I’m sure most members of the public would not support additional payments to the police simply for doing their job.”
He said senior officers had “got carried away” with the idea they were senior executives running a large business, rather than providing a public service.
Officers can apply for the so-called “grab a grand” bonuses by filling out a lengthy form.
Under the scheme, police constables pocketed £5.8m in 2015/16, while more than £1.4m was paid to sergeants.
Another £577,431 was handed to inspectors and chief inspectors on top of their salaries of up to £54,000 a year.
Overall the payouts cost taxpayers £7.8m. This compared with £7.7m last year and £7.5m in 2013/14.
A Taxpayer Scotland spokesman said: “Once again we see the lack of concern for taxpayers’ money in letting this situation develop.
“We would like to see some negotiations opened to ensure that performance-related payments are genuinely earned and not simply expected for all.”
A Scottish Government spokesman said the bonuses and the criteria for receiving them were a matter for the police.
Peter Blair, Police Scotland head of resource management, said: “CRTPs were introduced in 2003 across the UK to reward experienced professional officers who demonstrate high professional competence against national standards.
“Officers are able to apply for this reward when they have spent a year at the top of their pay scale but must demonstrate they have achieved the standards before it is awarded.
“Police Scotland continually strives to be as an efficient organisation as possible and is currently considering all areas where potential savings may be made.”
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