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Is It Time to Add an Emergency Savings Program to Your Benefits Package?

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Is It Time to Add an Emergency Savings Program to Your Benefits Package?

By: Regina Dyerly, SHRBP, PHR | Partner / Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Unexpected expenses can derail even the most well-intentioned financial plans. Whether it’s a flat tire, medical bill, or sudden home repair:

Nearly 6 in 10 U.S. adults say they would struggle to cover a $1,000 emergency expense.

That financial stress does not stay at home—it shows up at work in the form of distraction, absenteeism, and increased reliance on 401(k) loans or hardship withdrawals.


That’s why more organizations are exploring solutions like SecureSave, a dedicated emergency savings program designed to help employees build financial stability—without touching their retirement savings or, worse, turning to a predatory payday loan.


Even modest contributions, supported by employer incentives, can make a meaningful difference. For example, with $25 per paycheck (based on a typical 24- or 26-pay-period year), an employee can build up $1,000 in about 40 weeks. That timeline shortens considerably if the employer adds a modest match—just $10–$15 per paycheck could help employees reach their goal faster, while reinforcing your organization’s commitment to financial wellness.

distressed person sitting on the ground surrounded by large stacks of paper

Why It Works


  • Immediate access to funds without penalty or red tape

  • No loans—employees can use their own money for any reason

  • Simple payroll integration with low administrative lift

  • Optional employer incentives like a sign-up bonus, paycheck match, and milestone bonuses

  • No contribution or withdrawal limits


Programs like SecureSave are designed to integrate easily with payroll systems and do not require the administrative overhead or fiduciary responsibility of a retirement plan. Implementation is straightforward, and employees manage their own accounts directly through an app or online portal.


Financial stress is not just a personal issue, it is a business issue.


According to PwC’s 2023 Employee Financial Wellness Survey, 60% of full-time employees are stressed about their finances, even those earning over $100,000 annually.

That stress takes a toll on workplace engagement:

  • 44% of financially stressed employees say personal finances distract them at work

  • 56% of those distracted spend three or more hours per week dealing with financial issues on the clock

  • Stressed employees are twice as likely to be job hunting and more likely to leave for a company that demonstrates financial care


We are Here to Help!

business man at desk leaning far back looking up with a frown

We’ve explored what an emergency savings benefit could look like using a SecureSave-style model and found the structure to be practical, flexible, and well-aligned with overall employee well-being goals. Whether rolled out in 2026 or later, it is a concept worth strong consideration for organizations looking to support financial resilience in a meaningful way.


While we are not affiliated with or integrated with SecureSave, we’ve had a great experience working with one of their representatives and are happy to make an introduction if you would like more information.


Let us know if you’d like a copy of our sample policy or want to explore how this could work for your team.

Is It Time to Add an Emergency Savings Program to Your Benefits Package?

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