The ROI of Offering Tax Assistance as an Employee Benefit

Tax season can be stressful for employees, creating confusion, anxiety, and a sense of overwhelm that doesn’t just stay at home—it follows them into the workplace. For employers, this isn’t just a seasonal issue; it’s a year-round opportunity to make a meaningful difference. Offering tax assistance as part of a financial wellness program isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s an important aspect of company culture and making sure employees feel valued and supported in their personal financial journey. 

A New Era of Employee Financial Wellness

Employees are navigating a complex financial landscape. While they’re expected to juggle rising costs of living, loan repayments, and long-term financial planning, many lack the tools and support to do so effectively. This financial strain is significant: 57% of employees cite finances as their top source of stress, and it’s a burden that directly impacts their professional lives. Financial anxiety can lead to decreased focus, higher absenteeism, and even increased healthcare costs.

By offering tax assistance as an employee benefit, companies can lighten the load during one of the most financially challenging times of the year. With Origin, employees can file their taxes at no extra cost, no matter their tax situation. More importantly, they can do it on the same platform where they already manage their financial lives. This simplicity and integration are game-changers, giving employees more control and clarity during tax season—and beyond.

The Business Case for Tax Assistance

For employers, providing tax assistance is one of the most important aspects of financial support benefits, and it can have a measurably positive impact on your business as a whole.

Here are a few of the tangible benefits

1. Increased productivity: Financial stress doesn’t stay at home; it walks into the office every day. Research shows that financial anxiety costs employers up to $250 billion annually in lost productivity. When employees feel financially secure, they’re more focused and engaged at work. In fact, 63% of HR professionals report that financial stress negatively impacts employee performance. By addressing these concerns through tax assistance, companies can create a more productive, focused workforce.

2. Reduced turnover: Employee retention is critical, especially in today’s competitive job market. High turnover is expensive, costing businesses approximately six to nine months of an employee’s salary to replace them. Financial wellness programs, including tax assistance, enhance job satisfaction and loyalty. When employees feel supported during high-stress periods, they’re more likely to stay with the company, reducing turnover costs and preserving institutional knowledge.

3. Enhanced recruitment: Comprehensive benefits packages are no longer optional; they’re expected. 60% of employees consider financial wellness benefits when evaluating job offers, according to MetLife. Offering tax assistance not only helps attract top talent but also positions your company as an innovative and empathetic employer that prioritizes employee well-being.

4. Strengthened company culture: Providing tax assistance is more than a transactional benefit; it’s a statement that your company cares about its employees’ overall well-being. This fosters a culture of trust, support, and collaboration, leading to higher morale and teamwork. Employees who feel valued are more likely to be engaged, loyal, and motivated contributors.

Why Origin Is the Right Choice

Origin’s comprehensive financial wellness platform stands out for several reasons. Employees can file their taxes—regardless of complexity—without additional fees. But that’s just the beginning; they also gain access to tools like net worth tracking, budgeting, spending analysis, and credit score monitoring, all in one place. For those seeking deeper guidance, Origin offers access to financial planners for an additional fee, providing personalized advice on everything from retirement savings to investment strategies.

Here’s what makes Origin’s tax assistance unique:

• Seamless integration: Employees manage all their financial information in one platform, simplifying tax season and giving them a holistic view of their finances.

• Cost-free filing: Employees can file their taxes without worrying about additional fees, making this benefit accessible to everyone, no matter their financial situation.

• Expert support: With the option to consult financial planners, employees can receive tailored advice, helping them maximize tax refunds and create long-term strategies for financial wellness.

Real Results, Real Impact

The benefits of tax assistance extend far beyond tax season. Employees who feel financially secure are more likely to perform better, stay longer, and contribute to a positive workplace culture. By investing in this benefit, companies are investing in their people—and their bottom line.

For example:

• An employee stressed about navigating complex tax returns may spend hours trying to figure it out during work hours. With Origin, they can file taxes quickly and efficiently, freeing up their time and energy to focus on their role.

• A new hire evaluating multiple job offers might choose your company because of the comprehensive financial wellness benefits you provide, including tax assistance. This competitive edge helps attract top talent and reduces recruitment costs.

Going Beyond Taxes

While tax assistance is a powerful benefit, it’s just one piece of the financial wellness puzzle. Origin’s holistic approach ensures employees have the tools they need to manage their entire financial journey, from budgeting and investing to estate planning and beyond. This comprehensive support fosters not only financial stability but also long-term growth and security.

The Bottom Line

Tax assistance is a year-round investment in your workforce. By offering this benefit, employers can drive productivity, reduce turnover, and strengthen recruitment efforts while demonstrating genuine care for their employees’ well-being. With Origin, companies can provide a seamless, integrated solution that simplifies tax season and sets employees up for success.

In today’s competitive landscape, the ROI of offering tax assistance is clear: happier employees, stronger businesses, and a brighter financial future for everyone.

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