As the workplace continues to evolve, so do the expectations around employee benefits. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) recently released its 2025 Employee Benefits Survey, offering a comprehensive look at how employers are adapting to meet the changing needs of their workforce. The findings highlight a clear shift toward more comprehensive support, with increased emphasis on mental health, caregiving assistance, and flexible work arrangements. These trends reflect a broader movement toward employee-centered benefits strategies that prioritize well-being, work-life balance, and long-term security.
One of the most notable takeaways from the survey is the growing importance of mental health benefits. Employers are recognizing that mental wellness is just as critical as physical health. More organizations are offering access to counseling services, mental health apps, and employee assistance programs. This shift is not only helping employees manage stress and anxiety but also improving engagement and productivity across the board.
Caregiving support is another area gaining traction. With more employees balancing work responsibilities with caregiving for children, aging parents, or other dependents, companies are expanding benefits to include paid family leave, backup care services, and flexible scheduling. These offerings help reduce burnout and demonstrate a genuine commitment to supporting employees in all aspects of their lives.
Flexible work arrangements also continue to be a top priority. The survey shows that remote and hybrid work options are no longer considered temporary solutions. Instead, they are becoming standard practice for many organizations. Employers are investing in tools and policies that support flexibility, autonomy, and work-life integration. This approach not only attracts top talent but also helps retain employees who value control over their schedules.
While these emerging benefits are shaping the future, foundational offerings like life insurance remain essential. At Amalgamated Life Insurance Company, we believe that life insurance is a cornerstone of financial wellness. It provides employees with peace of mind and long-term security, ensuring that their families are protected in the event of an unexpected loss.
Our extensive suite of life insurance plans are designed to meet the needs of today’s workforce. These solutions offer flexible coverage options, competitive premiums, and the ability to tailor protection based on individual circumstances. Whether an employee is just starting a family or planning for retirement, life insurance plays a vital role in building financial resilience.
As HR leaders and benefits managers consider how to respond to the trends highlighted in SHRM’s survey, it is important to strike a balance between innovation and reliability. New benefits like mental health apps and caregiving support are valuable additions, but they should complement, not replace, core offerings that provide lasting protection.
Amalgamated Life is committed to helping employers build benefits packages that reflect the full spectrum of employee needs. Our insurance solutions and voluntary benefits are backed by decades of experience, responsive USA-based service, and a deep understanding of the evolving workplace. We work closely with organizations to ensure that our offerings align with their goals and deliver meaningful value to their teams.
The future of employee benefits is about more than perks. It is about creating a culture of care, trust, and support. By combining emerging trends with proven solutions like life insurance, employers can build benefits strategies that truly make a difference.
To learn more about how Amalgamated Life’s insurance solutions can support your organization’s goals, visit our Insurance Solutions page.