"Financial wellness isn't just a fluffy benefit," says Rebecca Wettemann, CEO of analyst firm Valoir. "It's a lever for reducing burnout, improving retention and driving measurable productivity and performance gains."

Well-structured return to work programs help restore a worker's identity, reduce anxiety and depression, and shorten disability duration.

Health insurance ranks as the most important workplace benefit, with 68% of respondents identifying it as their top benefit.

Employee benefits that support workers through life events like personal loss are tied to better engagement, productivity and retention.