Financial wellness programs in the workplace: Evidence from employers in the caregiving industry

Abstract

Employee financial wellness programs (EFWPs), a new type of employee benefit, claim to address workers’ financial challenges and improve business results. However, evidence of such advantages remains thin, and little is known about program take-up. This study examines organizational factors accounting for successful EFWP implementation and take-up at three caregiving sector employers. We investigate two EFWPs, financial and credit-building counseling, through in-depth interviews with managers and directed content analysis. Results suggest that in-person EFWP promotion and active support from upper management are key factors in program success. Additionally, EFWP congruence with employers’ business practices and values factors into program utilization.

Keywords:

• Financial stability
• financial wellness programs
• low-to moderate-income workers