2026 SMB Employee Benefits and Retention Report

This report presents findings from parallel surveys conducted with over 100 U.S. employers and employees regarding employee benefits and retention factors. The objective is to compare employer assumptions with employee experiences to identify key drivers of retention. The report is organized into sections that include key findings, a deeper analysis of employee risk factors, and actionable recommendations. Key findings indicate that pay and management quality are primary retention drivers, while benefits communication and health satisfaction significantly influence employee retention. Specific data points reveal that employees with low health satisfaction are four times more likely to leave, and trust in benefits handling is a strong predictor of retention risk. The report concludes with six recommendations for employers to enhance their benefits strategies and improve employee retention, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and understanding of benefits among employees.