Tax law fueling changes to employer benefits and compensation programs, Willis Towers Watson survey finds

ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 25, 2018 -- The new tax reform law is fueling changes to corporate America’s employee benefits, compensation, total rewards and executive pay programs, according to a survey by Willis Towers Watson (NASDAQ:WLTW), a leading global advisory, broking and solutions company. The survey of 333 large and midsize employers reveals nearly half (49%) of the respondents are considering making a change to at least one of these programs this year or next.

“The tax reform law is creating economic opportunity to invest in their people programs,” said John Bremen, managing director, human capital and benefits, Willis Towers Watson. “While a significant number have already announced changes to some of their programs, the majority of employers are proceeding to determine which changes will have the highest impact and generate the greatest value.”

Two-thirds of those (66%) surveyed are planning or considering making changes to their benefit programs, or have already taken action.  The most common changes organizations  have made or are planning or considering include expanding personal financial planning (34%), increasing 401(k) contributions (26%) and increasing or accelerating pension plan contributions (19%).  Other potential changes include increasing the employer health care subsidy, reducing or holding flat the employee payroll deduction, or adding a new paid family leave program in accordance with the Family Medical and Leave Act's tax credit available for paid leave for certain employees.

Sixty-four percent of employers are planning or considering taking action on their broad-based compensation programs, or have already taken action. The most common changes organizations have made or are planning or considering include conducting a review of their compensation philosophy (43%), addressing pay-gap issues (36%) and introducing a profit-sharing or one-time bonus payout to all employees (21%).   

About four in 10 companies (41%) are also planning or considering changes to their executive pay programs, or have already taken action. The most common changes employers have made or are planning or considering include spending more time and analysis on this year’s incentive target (33%) and increasing the use of discretion in 2018 incentive plans (19%).

“The results of our survey, coupled with the actions taken by some large employers over the past few weeks, suggest that investing in their people remains a top priority. We fully expect most organizations will take the time to thoughtfully evaluate the impact of the tax law on their organization and then make changes that support their specific business strategy,” said Kathy Walgamuth, director, communication and change management, Willis Towers Watson. “The tax law and subsequent company announcements have made headlines, so employees may already have established their own set of expectations. Wherever an organization lands, even if the decision is made to not take any direct action for employees, it’s essential for them to consider the need to communicate and address employee questions.”

About the survey

Willis Towers Watson surveyed 333 large and midsize U.S. companies to determine their plans to invest savings resulting from the change in the corporate tax rate under the tax reform law. The survey was conducted between January 10 and 17.

About Willis Towers Watson

Willis Towers Watson (NASDAQ:WLTW) is a leading global advisory, broking and solutions company that helps clients around the world turn risk into a path for growth. With roots dating to 1828, Willis Towers Watson has more than 40,000 employees serving more than 140 countries. We design and deliver solutions that manage risk, optimize benefits, cultivate talent, and expand the power of capital to protect and strengthen institutions and individuals. Our unique perspective allows us to see the critical intersections between talent, assets and ideas — the dynamic formula that drives business performance. Together, we unlock potential. Learn more at willistowerswatson.com.

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