Total Rewards
Using compensation and benefits strategically to retain talent, control costs, and drive organizational performance.
FEATURED RESEARCH:
2026 SHRM Employee Benefits Survey Report
A comprehensive annual survey of HR professionals capturing the prevalence of benefits across a wide range of offerings.
The Importance of Benefits
Compensation and benefits are among the largest expenses for organizations, but when managed strategically, they deliver outsized returns in retention and engagement. HR leaders who design effective rewards systems reduce turnover and attract top talent. Total rewards is more than pay, it's a business lever for maximizing workforce ROI.
Member OnlyLooking to design pay and benefits that attract and retain talent?
Ask a SHRM Knowledge Advisor or insights on building competitive total rewards.
Key Data Trends
49%
the median share of operating expenses attributed to salaries in 2026, up from 41% in 2022, making compensation and benefits a major organizational cost
61%
of HR pros say competitive compensation is very or extremely effective for retaining deskless workers
56%
of HR professionals report ongoing challenges in retaining deskless workers, emphasizing the importance of total rewards strategies for reducing turnover
SHRM Total Rewards Specialty Credential
Design competitive compensation and benefits programs that boost employee engagement with the SHRM Total Rewards Specialty Credential.
Latest News
The fourth quarter creates a perfect storm for employees. Learn how employers can ease stress through better management, flexible work, and mental health benefits.
The Treasury will automatically enroll millions of children, dramatically expanding Trump Accounts and their role in the benefits landscape.
Retirement isn't always an option. Learn how HR can support an aging workforce and close knowledge gaps through unretirement.
Equal pay bumps for all staff are losing favor. Find out why fewer employers are embracing the pay trend and instead shifting to merit-based raises.
Design Rewards That Deliver
SHRM membership provides insights on compensation, benefits, and pay transparency that attract talent and reduce turnover.
Become a SHRM Member and build a total rewards strategy that works.
Member Resources
Get guidance on allowable and prohibited salary deductions for exempt employees. Align your pay practices with the Fair Labor Standards Act and state laws.
Understand key compliance rules for employer-sponsored wellness programs to design and implement effective employee well-being initiatives.
Understand recent FLSA updates and proposed rules on independent contractors, joint employers, and overtime pay, and learn how you can maintain compliance.
Optimize leave of absence (LOA) processes with SHRM's expert guide on the FMLA, ADA, and USERRA. Ensure HR compliance and effective documentation practices.