Financial Stress In 2025: 4 Insights You Need To See

Recent findings on employee stress have provided valuable insights that can help companies refine their benefits programs. The Employee Benefit Research Institute’s (EBRI) 2024 Workplace Wellness Survey, which gathered responses from over 1,500 American workers, uncovered emerging trends that could shape workplace wellness strategies in the coming years.

At the core of employee concerns is financial security. Workers are eager to improve their financial well-being, whether by saving for retirement, reducing debt or handling unexpected expenses. One common thread remains — many employees expect their employers to play an active role in offering financial education and support.

Below are four main takeaways from the EBRI survey and how they can inform your company’s wellness initiatives.

Retirement savings is a primary concern for employees

When asked how they would allocate an extra $600 across financial accounts, the majority of employees indicated they would prioritize their retirement savings. A well-funded retirement account not only helps employees secure their future but also contributes to overall peace of mind. However, the survey also found that nearly 20% of respondents had tapped into their retirement funds to cover emergency expenses.

Without a dedicated emergency savings account, employees may dip into their long-term savings, adding to their financial strain. While retirement planning is a priority, unexpected financial burdens can easily disrupt these goals.

To mitigate this issue, employers can introduce a range of retirement plan options, offer contribution-matching programs and facilitate workshops on financial literacy. Providing tools and education on budgeting can empower employees to make informed decisions and safeguard their financial future.

Financial education can ease employee stress

The survey found that 40% of employees want more resources to better understand personal finance. However, financial education is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The questions employees have vary by their life stage and financial situation.

According to the EBRI survey , the top financial concerns include retirement planning (42%), emergency savings (34%) and effective budgeting strategies (33%).

Customizable financial wellness programs can equip employees with the knowledge they need to make confident financial decisions. From interactive workshops to digital tools that address specific financial challenges, these programs can significantly alleviate employee stress and enhance overall job satisfaction.

Financial wellness programs are valued by employees

Nearly 90% of workers surveyed report that their employer’s financial wellness programs were at least somewhat helpful in achieving their goals. Forty percent of employees said financial wellness programs have become increasingly important over the past year. Additionally, nearly 80% of respondents stated that these programs contribute to their overall sense of financial security.

These initiatives can encompass a variety of resources, including budgeting tools, debt management workshops and investment planning tools. To maximize engagement, companies should ensure that these programs are not only comprehensive but also easily accessible and relevant to employees’ financial needs.

AI-driven financial tools are gaining popularity

Artificial intelligence is becoming a key player in financial management, and employees are embracing this shift. The survey found that nearly 60% of respondents are comfortable using AI at work, with many leveraging AI-powered tools for personal financial management.

AI-driven solutions can provide personalized insights for your employees. According to a survey from Experian , 67% of Gen Z and 62% of millennials already use AI for personal financial tasks.

Employers can stay ahead of this trend by incorporating AI-powered financial resources into their wellness programs. From intelligent budgeting assistants to AI-driven investment recommendations, these tools can help employees make informed financial decisions and work toward greater financial stability.

How U.S. Legal Services and Best Money Moves Can Help

Employees across the U.S. want their employers to take a more significant role in their financial wellness. That’s why U.S. Legal Services has partnered with Best Money Moves, a financial wellness platform, to offer accessible, award-winning financial education.

Best Money Moves works with our legal plans to help employees make smarter decisions about managing their money. With interactive, user-friendly tools and an AI-integrated platform, Best Money Moves offers resources to meet employees wherever they may be in their financial lives.
To learn more about how group legal insurance benefits and financial wellness can support your team, contact us online or call 1.800.356.LAWS or visit www.uslegalservices.net for a quote.