The power of a financial check-up: how employees and employers both benefit

Why financial well-being is more important than ever

As inflation persists and economic uncertainty continues, more people are struggling to gain control over their financial situation. Did you know that nearly one in five Dutch households faces financial difficulties? This pressure often translates to workplace stress, leading to higher absenteeism rates and lower productivity. Financial well-being, therefore, is not just a personal issue—it directly impacts you as an employer or HR professional.

Adding to this, major changes to the pension system are on the horizon, the housing market remains tight, and the cost of living continues to rise—all contributing to growing financial stress.

By investing in employee financial well-being now, you can make a significant difference, helping your employees avoid financial struggles and absenteeism. A biannual "financial check-up" has been proven to be an effective way to achieve this.

What is a financial check-up (or ‘financial APK’)?

A financial check-up—also known as a "financial APK"—is comparable to a dental visit or car inspection but tailored to your finances. During these biannual check-ups, the following aspects are addressed:

• Monthly savings capacity – How much money can employees set aside regularly?

• Wealth building – What saving and investment strategies suit their situation?

• Preparation for life events – Guidance on events such as marriage, promotion, childbirth, or buying a home.

• Retirement planning – Is the current pension contribution sufficient, or are additional steps needed?

This 360-degree review provides employees with insights and actionable steps to make timely adjustments and strengthen their financial resilience.

The benefits of a financial check-up

Benefits for employees

• Prevent financial problems: By identifying risks early—such as potential debts or pension gaps—employees can take timely action.

• Accessible guidance: Employees can address their financial questions in a safe, judgment-free environment and receive practical tips to improve their situation.

• Structure and clarity: A check-up maps out income, expenses, and future plans, creating peace of mind and clear insights.

• Accountability: A scheduled appointment ensures that important financial actions are not postponed indefinitely but remain a priority.

Benefits for employers

• Increased productivity and reduced absenteeism: Employees free of financial stress are more alert, creative, and less likely to call in sick.

• Enhanced employer branding: A company that actively contributes to the financial health of its employees stands out positively in the market.

• Improved talent retention: Investing in financial well-being demonstrates care for employees, boosting loyalty and reducing turnover.

• Better business results: Healthy, motivated, and focused employees directly contribute to organizational growth and stability.

More organizations are advocating for financial check-ups

In recent years, the importance of regular financial check-ups has only grown. For example, Achmea notes that employees increasingly value financial check-ups, and NN Group highlights that these discussions help employees gain control over their financial future. More recently, the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM) has emphasized this urgency, warning that many Dutch citizens are unprepared for financial setbacks and pension risks.

These leading organizations call on employers and HR teams to give financial well-being structural attention, as the workplace is a trusted environment to address these concerns. The financial APK or check-up is becoming a widely embraced tool. It’s no longer a question of if you’ll implement this in your company, but rather how.

Equip as a leader in financial check-ups

At Equip, we’ve been pioneers in employee financial well-being for years. Our platform empowers your employees to gain insight into their financial situation and take actionable steps where needed. We’ve successfully implemented the concept of the financial APK for clients like BAM, Rituals, and the Dutch Postcode Lottery.

Equip’s strength lies in our modern and personalized approach: we offer expert, independent 1:1 guidance alongside a user-friendly online environment. This ensures that your employees can address their financial challenges in their own way, becoming not only financially healthier but also more relaxed and productive at work.

Conclusion: time for action

The financial landscape is changing rapidly, and employees are increasingly looking to their employer and HR department for support. By offering a financial check-up today, you invest in your employees' resilience, reduce absenteeism, and enhance your organization’s reputation.

Curious about what Equip can do for your organization?

Contact us now or click the button below to request a quote. Empower your employees with the financial support they need—before it’s too late.