Financial stress is a significant issue that affects not only the wellbeing of employees but also their productivity and overall workplace morale. One innovative solution to this growing concern is Earned Wage Access (EWA). This guide will explore what Earned Wage Access is, how it can alleviate financial stress, and how you can introduce it as a new employee benefit.

What is Earned Wage Access?

Earned Wage Access, also referred to as On-Demand Pay, is a financial tool that allows employees to access a portion of their earned wages before their normal payday. Instead of waiting for the end of a pay cycle, employees can withdraw a percentage of their accrued earnings at any time during the pay period. This service is typically facilitated by an On-Demand Pay provider who integrates seamlessly with an employer's payroll system.

Key Features of EWA:

• On-demand access to earned wages

• No interest or hidden fees

• Integration with existing payroll systems

• User-friendly mobile app for easy access

To learn more about what Earned Wage Access is, check out this useful guide.

How does Earned Wage Access address financial stress?

Financial stress can stem from various sources, including unexpected expenses, repaying debt, and the general cost of living. Earned Wage Access provides a safety net that helps employees manage their finances more effectively, reducing the stress associated with waiting for payday. Here are some ways Earned Wage Access can make a difference:

Immediate Financial Relief

With Earned Wage Access, employees have immediate access to funds when they need them the most, such as when facing unexpected expenses like medical bills or car repairs. This instant access helps prevent the need for high-interest payday loans or credit card debt.

Improved Budget Management

Earned Wage Access promotes better financial planning by allowing employees to access their earnings in real-time. This flexibility makes it easier to manage day-to-day expenses and reduces the likelihood of falling into financial hardship, or needing to turn to debt.

Enhanced Employee Wellbeing

Financial stress is closely linked to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. By alleviating financial stress, Earned Wage Access can contribute to improved mental wellbeing, leading to a happier, more focused, and productive workforce.

Increased Employee Retention

Offering Earned Wage Access as a benefit can significantly enhance job satisfaction and loyalty, making employees less likely to seek employment elsewhere. It's an attractive benefit that shows your organisation cares about the financial wellbeing of its staff. Companies which use Level have seen up to 50% lower staff turnover.

How can you introduce Earned Wage Access as your new employee benefit?

Implementing Earned Wage Access in your organisation requires consideration. Here are the steps to successfully introduce this valuable benefit:

Research and Choose a Provider

Start by researching reputable Earned Wage Access providers that align with your company's values and needs. Look for providers with a proven track record, robust security measures, and seamless integration capabilities. Level is registered with, and certified by, many of the leading financial bodies - check these out in our Trust Center.

Assess the Integration Process

Work closely with your chosen Earned Wage Access provider to understand the technical requirements and ensure that their system integrates smoothly with your existing payroll and HR systems. Level integrates with many of the leading HR and payroll systems in the UK – check them out here. If you don’t see yours, don’t worry! Our dedicated team can integrate with new technology.

Communicate the Benefits to Employees

Once you've selected a provider, communicate the benefits of Earned Wage Access to your employees clearly and effectively. Your provider should supply you with resources, documents and copy to help you communicate your new employee benefits effectively.

Conclusion

Introducing Earned Wage Access as an employee benefit can significantly reduce financial stress, improve employee wellbeing, and enhance workplace productivity. By offering Earned Wage Access, you demonstrate your organisation's commitment to supporting your employees' financial health.

Ready to take the next step? Talk to a specialist at Level and learn more about how Level could be your new On-Demand Pay provider.