So, I'm scheduled for an interview with a company that aligns well with my field. Today I received notification that I was getting a raise, as well as a Christmas bonus. Knowing that I am actively searching for a new job (and have a chance at one) I feel guilty accepting this money.
I certainly can't reject it outright, because letting my boss know I'm leaving prematurely is just a terrible idea. I have however been toying around with just sitting on it, and upon giving my resignation returning it, stating that since I was planning on leaving, I wouldn't feel right accepting it.
Doing the above would ease my conscience about the state I'm leaving my employer in (Feel free to weigh in on that question too!), but is it the professional thing to do? Given that I received the bonus without my boss knowing I was leaving, it obviously wasn't an incentive to stay or anything, so it's not really an intended leverage point (which I would have to decline), but at the same time, it feels like by taking it and leaving I'm biting the hand that feeds me. Is there any professional way to deal with this situation?