A financial wellness program can be an extremely valuable benefit, learn how it can help employees reduce stress while improving workplace productivity
Financial wellness programs are becoming an important benefit for companies of all sizes. In 2021, almost half (46%) of all employers offered financial wellness programs, up from 40% in 2020. Additionally, interest from the workforce had only increased as they assessed how their finances were impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The primary focus of a financial wellness program is to provide education and resources to help employees better manage their finances and reduce related stress. A recent survey found that 60% of workers were concerned about their current level of debt, adding to their financial stress. Employees are seeking opportunities to improve their well-being, and many are interested in benefits like access to a financial professional (56%), financial planning tools (62%) and financial education (54%).
Companies can offer a variety of financial topics to assist employees. Financial wellness programs should address every aspect of a participant’s life while offering support around:
And offer access to financial advisors
Addressing each of these components can be accomplished in several ways, including regular employee meetings and providing financial how-to materials from reputable sources. Setting up access or classes with a financial advisor is a good first step to address a wide range of financial topics.
Here are 5 key recommendations to help plan, implement and maintain a powerful financial wellness program:
Each of your employees are in different stages of their savings journey. For example, when it comes to retirement readiness, many workers fall into two categories: “undersavers” (not saving enough for retirement) or “oversavers” (those who have saved enough to achieve financial goals but are still working, saving and limiting expenditures). Ensuring you have financial wellness initiatives in place that address the specific and unique needs of a wide spectrum of savers is a key component of any financial benefits program.
While employers may consider starting a financial wellness program because it’s the right thing to do, it’s more than just a “feel-good” benefit. Helping employees reduce their personal financial stress can also have a number of positive impacts on the overall workplace. Each week, workers spend an average of 9.2 hours addressing their personal finances while at work. Improving employees’ financial well-being could have a positive ripple effect:
Overall, employers of all sizes can implement some aspect of a financial wellness program to help employees reduce financial stress, improve personal well-being and get on the path toward financial security. We are here to help when you are ready to discuss your retirement plan needs and its financial wellness strategy.
Sean C. Bjork, CIMA®, AIF®
Vice President
Bjork Group
1033 Skokie Boulevard, Suite 210
Northbrook, IL. 60062
p.312.464.7082
seanbjork@bjorkgroup.com
www.bjorkgroup.com
Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Global Retirement Partners, LLC, a registered investment advisor. Global Retirement Partners, LLC and Bjork Asset Management are separate entities from LPL Financial.
This information was developed as a general guide to educate plan sponsors and is not intended as authoritative guidance or tax/legal advice. Each plan has unique requirements, and you should consult your attorney or tax advisor for guidance on your specific situation.
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[1] Bank of America. “2021 Workplace Benefits Report.” 22 Sept. 2021.
[1] Franklin Templeton. “Voice of the American Worker.” 2 Feb. 2022.
[1] SoFi. “The Future of Workplace Financial Well-being.” 30 Mar. 2022.