When managing international assignments, getting compensation right is critical—not just for fairness, but for assignment success. One of the most important tools in your compensation toolkit is the Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA). Done well, it ensures employees maintain their standard of living while abroad, helping them stay focused, productive, and financially secure.
Moving across borders often means facing very different costs for everyday goods and services. That’s where COLA comes in: it helps close the gap so employees aren’t left covering the difference out of pocket.
COLA isn't just a policy lever—it's a trust builder between you and your global employees.
To run a strong COLA program, keep these principles in mind:
Want to keep mobile employees informed? Use pre-built reports that break down COLA logic and show recent changes.
For organizations looking to simplify COLA, AIRINC makes it easy:
Need to explain a COLA drop to an assignee? AIRINC’s employee-facing reports make it simple.
COLA is more than a number—it’s a strategic tool that impacts employee experience and program success. With the right data, delivery tools, and support, managing COLA can be easier and more effective.