So far, 2025 has brought a sense of financial uncertainty for many – including the high cost of living and new trade tariffs under Donald Trump which has made it even more difficult for employees to gain control over their finances.
Our latest 2025 research found that over the last 12 months some employees have even given up on savings (29%) and plans to buy a home (27%). Employees’ main financial concerns over the next 12 months include not being able to pay for basic living costs such as household bills and dental costs (39%).
For HR and wellbeing leaders, these findings highlight a growing need to support employees with financial wellbeing tools and strategies. Whether through internal programmes or external resources, providing practical support can improve employee morale, reduce stress, and boost productivity.
Here are five actionable tips you can share with employees to help them take back control of their finances during these uncertain times:
1. Start with a Simple Budget
Encourage employees to get a clear view of their monthly income and outgoings. This includes essentials like rent or mortgage, childcare, loans, groceries, and subscriptions. Understanding the full picture can make it easier to identify areas where changes can be made.
Tip: use a budget planner tool like the one available from the CCPC, it’s free!
2. Tackle Expensive Debt First
Debt is a major source of financial stress. Guide employees toward prioritising high-interest debt like credit cards or overdrafts. Even small additional payments can significantly reduce what they owe over time.
Tip: Investigate lower interest options like a credit union loan.
3. Build an emergency fund
An emergency fund or a ‘rainy day fund’ is money you set aside for unexpected events. Encourage employees to set some money aside for future unexpected events like a car repair or medical appointment.
Tip: Aim to build up enough to cover 3-6 months of essential bills. Set up a separate savings account and automate a small monthly transfer.
4. Shop wisely
Switching brands and planning the weekly shop in advance can help cut grocery costs. Look out for deals, use discount codes online, and check if your employer benefits include any savings perks. This can really help when unexpected expenses pop up.
Tip: Promote any in-house or external discount platforms available to your team and include them in onboarding packs.
5. Be scam smart
Over the last 12 months, 94% of the population have been targeted by scammers. Fraudsters can sound completely legitimate and it’s easy to see why so many are fooled.
Tip: Encourage employees to check company legitimacy via the Central Bank of Ireland’s register and report incidents at FraudSMART.ie.
Note: the information contained in this article should not be taken as advice and any information provided or opinions given are not tailored to an individual’s own circumstances.
