The Grief Tax by Empathy

2026 Workplace Benefits Report

As life events reshape the workforce, benefits strategies are evolving.

When life happens, do your benefits hold up?

Nearly half of employees experienced a major life disruption in the past two years. Yet more than half say their benefits are not fully aligned with their real needs.

In 2026, workplace benefits face an inflection point. Investment is rising. Expectations are shifting. The gap between intent and impact is widening. Our report reveals where strategies are breaking down and how leading organizations are responding.

The Alignment Gap

95%
of employees value bereavement-related benefits in 2026
50%
of employees believe their benefits are not fully aligned to their needs
84%
of employers plan to expand to bereavement support in 2026

Learn the ROI of getting benefits right

What’s Inside the 2026 Workplace Benefits Report

01
Where benefits strategies are misaligned
02
The 2026 priority list shaping investment decisions
03
Why life events are redefining benefit expectations
04
How to build a defensible ROI case for expanded support

Get the Insights Shaping Workplace Benefit Strategies

Research from 5,500 employees and employers

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Workplace Benefits opens the next phase of The Grief Tax, launching a series of research chapters that examine how grief and major life events ripple through the workplace, personal well-being, and the structures that underpin modern society.