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4 minute read

16 Employee Benefits that Actually Change Lives

Not all employee benefits are created equal. Find out the top benefits that make an impact and help promote employee well-being, satisfaction, and retention.

Maya Powers

Maya Powers, @MayaPowers

Estate Planning Content Expert, Trust & Will

Today’s workforce expects more than just a paycheck. They seek benefits that provide financial security, work-life balance, family support, and overall well-being. Companies that prioritize these areas see higher retention, stronger employee engagement, and a more satisfied workforce.

A study by MetLife found that 73% of employees believe a robust benefits package makes them more likely to stay with their employer, and 60% would take a lower salary in exchange for better benefits. 

Here’s a look at some of the most life-changing benefits a company can offer, organized by category:

Financial Wellness & Security Benefits

Financial stress is a top contributor to workplace distractions and burnout. A PwC study found that 57% of employees say finances are their biggest source of stress, regardless of income level. 

Offering strong financial benefits ensures employees feel secure about their future while staying productive in the present.

  • 401(k) Matching & Retirement Planning – Employers that match employee contributions help build long-term financial security, ensuring a comfortable retirement. Some companies also offer financial planning sessions to help employees maximize their savings.

  • Student Loan Assistance – With student debt surpassing $1.7 trillion, employer-assisted loan repayment helps employees tackle financial burdens faster, improving overall job satisfaction.

  • Emergency Savings Contributions – Nearly 60% of Americans don’t have enough savings to cover common emergencies. Employers that contribute to emergency savings accounts give employees peace of mind and financial stability.

  • Stock Options or Profit Sharing – Giving employees a stake in the company fosters loyalty and financial growth, making them feel truly invested in their work.

  • Estate & Legacy Planning – Many employees overlook estate planning, but offering services such as wills, trusts, and power of attorney helps them protect their assets and ensure their loved ones are cared for. Alchemer, UBS, and Delta are examples of companies that are leading the way by offering Trust & Will estate planning benefits to their employees. 

Family & Life Planning Benefits

Balancing work and family responsibilities is a challenge for many employees. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 76% of employees say that family-friendly benefits impact their job satisfaction. Companies that support employees through major life events foster stronger loyalty and well-being.

  • Fertility & Family Planning Benefits – IVF, egg freezing, adoption, and surrogacy can be costly. Covering fertility treatments or offering financial assistance ensures employees can build their families without financial hardship.

  • Paid Parental Leave – The U.S. lags behind other developed nations in parental leave policies, with only 27% of U.S. workers having access to paid family leave. Generous maternity and paternity leave options allow employees to bond with their children without worrying about lost income.

  • Childcare Assistance – Childcare costs are one of the biggest financial burdens for working parents. Employers that subsidize daycare, provide on-site childcare, or offer backup care for sick children make life easier (and much more affordable) for employees.

  • Caregiving & Elder Care Support – With more than one in six workers acting as a caregiver for a loved one, elder care benefits such as paid leave, financial support, and caregiving resources are becoming increasingly important.

Mental & Physical Health Benefits

A healthy workforce is a productive workforce. A survey by the American Psychological Association found that 81% of employees say employer-provided mental health support is important to their well-being. Investing in health benefits not only improves job satisfaction but also reduces absenteeism and healthcare costs.

  • Comprehensive Mental Health Support – Access to therapy, stress management programs, and crisis support can help employees manage anxiety, depression, and burnout. Some companies also offer dedicated mental health days separate from PTO.

  • Flexible Work Arrangements – Remote work, hybrid schedules, and flexible hours allow employees to tailor their workday to their personal needs, reducing stress and improving job performance.

  • Wellness Stipends – Some companies provide stipends for gym memberships, meditation apps, personal training, and wellness retreats, encouraging a proactive approach to health.

  • Comprehensive Health Insurance – A strong health insurance plan with low deductibles, extensive provider networks, and generous mental health coverage ensures employees and their families can access quality healthcare.

Career Growth & Work-Life Balance Benefits

Career development is a key factor in employee satisfaction. A Gallup study found that 87% of millennials consider professional growth opportunities important in a job, and employees who don’t see a clear career path are twice as likely to leave their employer. Providing learning opportunities and flexibility ensures employees feel valued and invested in their future.

  • Professional Development Stipends – Investing in employee growth by covering tuition, certifications, workshops, and conferences boosts retention and engagement.

  • Sabbaticals & Extended Leave Options – Long-tenured employees benefit from extended time off to travel, pursue personal projects, or simply recharge, leading to higher retention rates. Some companies offer paid sabbaticals after 5–10 years of service.

  • Unlimited PTO or Generous Vacation Policies – Encouraging employees to take time off improves productivity, creativity, and overall happiness. Companies that offer unlimited PTO or at least several weeks of paid vacation show a commitment to work-life balance.

Why You Should Request Estate Planning as an Employee Benefit

More than 60% of Americans don’t have a Will, leaving their loved ones vulnerable to complicated legal processes and uncertainty. By requesting estate planning as a workplace benefit, you’re advocating for long-term financial security—not just for yourself, but for your family as well.

Just as employers offer retirement plans, life insurance, and student loan assistance, estate planning ensures that everything you’ve worked for is protected. Plus, offering estate planning as a benefit demonstrates that your company values your future, your legacy, and your peace of mind.

If your employer doesn’t currently provide estate planning, consider starting the conversation. It’s an affordable, high-impact benefit that aligns with financial wellness initiatives and helps employees plan for the unexpected. 

Want estate planning as an employee benefit? Enter your HR manager’s email address on the form found on this page when you click “Partner with Us.” We’ll send them everything they need to make it happen.