Total Rewards
Using compensation and benefits strategically to retain talent, control costs, and drive organizational performance.
FEATURED RESEARCH:
2025 SHRM Employee Benefits Survey Report
A comprehensive annual survey of HR professionals capturing the prevalence of benefits across a wide range of offerings.
Government Shutdown 2025
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The Importance of Benefits
Compensation and benefits are among the largest expenses for any organization — but when managed strategically, they deliver outsized returns in retention and engagement. HR leaders who design effective rewards systems reduce turnover, attract top talent, and align workforce motivation with business objectives. 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?
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Key Data Trends
45%
the median share of operating expenses attributed to salaries in 2025, up from 40.9% 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
Catch up on the latest benefits news, including Roth catch-up contribution rules, employees’ upcoming PTO plans for Taylor Swift’s album release, and more.
With financial stress surging, financial wellness programs offer support and drive business results. See why more employers are investing in these benefits.
Pop star Taylor Swift's album drop Oct. 3 is driving a spike in paid-time-off plans. Discover how HR can leverage the moment to foster well-being and improve time-off culture.
Find out about new regulations finalized by the IRS and Treasury Department regarding changes to catch-up contributions in 401(k)s and other retirement plans.
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 more information on 2026 Health Savings Account (HSA) limits from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to help employees understand their benefit options.
Healthcare costs are expected to rise significantly in 2026, posing both budgetary challenges and strategic opportunities for employers and HR professionals.
Severance pay is a benefit offered by many employers when involuntarily terminating the employment of an employee.
Discover what a total compensation statement should include, why employers should offer them to employees, and how many workers say they are receiving them.