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
What You Need to Know
The latest government shutdown is impacting federal workers and organizations nationwide. Visit our resource hub for expert analysis, actionable guidance, and member-exclusive support. Stay informed, protect your workforce, and lead with confidence.
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?
Ask a SHRM Knowledge Advisor or insights on building competitive total rewards.
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
Inflation surpassed 4% for the first time in three years. The report serves as the latest indicator that high cost of living is a major pain point for workers.
In light of one company’s million-dollar salary bands claim after layoffs, discover what HR experts say about pay after layoffs, survivor syndrome, and retention strategy shifts.
Healthcare costs are climbing fast and confidence in managing them is shaky. One expert talks about why employers need to try other approaches.
India's sandwich generation juggles childcare and eldercare with little employer support. Learn how HR leaders can design caregiver-friendly benefits.
Accidents happen every day, but the resulting expenses can catch employees by surprise.
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
Ensure your expense reimbursement policy aligns with remote, hybrid, and multi-state work. Clear communication and consistent application are essential for compliance.
Access a sample return-to-work medical release form to help employees transition smoothly after illness or injury. Ensure compliance and support workplace well-being.
Learn how to create mental health benefits that employees value. Get tips on access, communication, manager training, and ongoing program improvement.
Effective overtime compliance starts with daily HR routines, from manager training to digital approval workflows, helping your organization stay audit-ready and fair.