In today’s fast-paced world, financial stress is an overwhelming burden many employees carry with them every day. It is not just about the dollars and cents; it’s about peace of mind and the ability to focus on work without the constant worry of financial woes. For Plan Sponsors and employers, understanding and addressing financial wellness can be a game-changer.
The Number One Stressor in the Workplace
Personal finances have become the top stressor in the workplace. A 2023 survey by PwC reported that 57% of employees indicated financial stress as their primary concern.1 This isn’t just a personal issue; it significantly impacts workplace productivity and overall employee well-being. When employees are stressed about money, they are less focused, more distracted and potentially less productive. The 2024 Wellness Barometer Survey by BrightPlan found that employee financial stress cost U.S. employers approximately $183 billion annually.2 These financially stressed employees are over two times more likely to look for a new job.3
Did you know? 46% of employees say the spend more than 3 hours each week dealing with personal finances on company time.
Impact on Employer’s Bottom Line
Financial stress doesn’t just affect the individual; it seeps into the organizational fabric, impacting the employer’s bottom line. Issues such as turnover, absenteeism and presenteeism (being physically present but mentally elsewhere) are directly linked to financial stress.
- Turnover: Employees overwhelmed by financial stress are more likely to seek new opportunities that offer better financial stability or benefits, increasing turnover rates. The cost of replacing an employee can be as much as 120%-200% of the annual salary of the position affected as reported by the national research university, UMass Lowell.4
- Absenteeism: Financially stressed employees are more likely to take unplanned leave, further disrupting workflow and productivity.
- Presenteeism: Even when employees show up for work, financial stress can cause them to be less engaged and productive, affecting the overall morale of the workplace. According to the 2024 SoFi Future of Workplace Report, employees spend an average of 14 hours per week stressing about finances, over half that time (8.2 hours) during working hours.5
The Role of Financial Wellness Programs
Implementing financial wellness programs can be a pivotal strategy for attracting and retaining employees. These programs are not a one-size-fits-all solution but are part of a comprehensive approach to total wellness.
Attracting and Retaining Talent
In a competitive job market, prospective employees are typically looking beyond salary. They want a holistic package that includes benefits aimed at improving their overall well-being, including financial health. Offering financial wellness programs can position your organization as a desirable place to work.
Customizable Solutions
Financial wellness should be tailored to meet the diverse needs of your workforce. What works for one employee might not work for another. Personalized solutions can provide employees with the tools they need to manage their unique financial situations effectively.
Integration with Other Benefits
Financial wellness is the connective tissue between various benefits offered to employees and how these benefits inform an employee’s financial plan. For example, understanding how healthcare plans, retirement savings and other benefits contribute to long-term financial health can help employees make better-informed decisions.
Generating Wealth in the Workplace
A significant portion of people’s wealth is generated in the workplace through salaries, retirement plans and other benefits. Employers have an opportunity to influence their employees’ financial well-being positively. By offering financial wellness programs, you empower employees to make better financial decisions, which can lead to greater financial stability and, ultimately, a more productive workforce.
Employee Expectations
73% of employees want and expect their employers to offer financial wellness programs. These programs are no longer viewed as perks but as essential components of the employment package. Meeting these expectations can significantly enhance employee satisfaction and loyalty.
Take the First Step Today
Financial wellness in the workplace is more than just a perk—it’s a necessity. With personal finances being the number one stressor for employees, organizations that prioritize financial education can see improved well-being, productivity, and retention.
By investing in your employees’ financial wellness, you’re not just supporting them—you’re strengthening your entire organization. Our Emerj360 division offers engaging financial education sessions, available in both group and one-on-one settings, along with a catalog of free online resources.
Empower your employees with the tools they need to build financial confidence.
Sources:
1PWC: “Employee Financial Wellness Survey.” 2023
2BrightPlan: “Wellness Barometer Survey.” 2024
3Salary Finance: “Inside the Wallets of Working Americans.” 2020
4Umass Lowell. “Financial Costs of Job Stress.” 2019.
5SoFi: “The Future of Workplace Report.” 2024
62022 SmartDollar Employee Benefits Study
