Many UK workers miss out on benefits and discounts they are entitled to simply because they don’t know about them. These can save money on everyday costs and improve financial wellbeing. There are at least 10 key benefits and discounts that most people working in the UK qualify for but often overlook.
These include offers on travel, savings on childcare, and help with bills, among others. Understanding and using these perks can make a real difference to a worker’s budget without any extra effort.
Knowing about these rights helps workers get the most from their pay and reduce expenses. This guide will highlight what is available and how easy it is to claim.
Understanding Employee Benefits
Many workers in the UK have access to benefits and discounts they might not fully know about. Some benefits are required by law, while others depend on the company’s policies or the worker’s role. Knowing the rules can help employees use these advantages.
Overview of Legally Mandated Benefits
UK law requires certain benefits to be offered to most employees. These include holiday pay, which is at least 5.6 weeks per year, and paid sick leave through Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). Employees also have rights to maternity, paternity, and adoption leave with pay under specific limits.
Other protections include minimum wage laws and workplace pension schemes. Employers must automatically enrol eligible workers into a pension plan and contribute to it. These benefits protect employees without extra action needed from them.
Eligibility Criteria for Common Workplace Discounts
Not all workers receive discounts, and they usually depend on the employer or industry. Staff discounts often apply to retail, hospitality, and transport jobs but may extend to other sectors. Eligibility usually depends on being a current employee or working a minimum number of hours.
Some companies offer discounts through partnerships with other businesses, like gyms or technology providers. To use these discounts, employees might need to ask HR for a code or show a staff ID. Temporary or casual workers may have limited access to these offers.
Top Financial Perks Most Workers Miss Out On
Many UK workers don’t fully use the financial benefits available through their jobs. These perks can reduce taxes, increase savings, and boost income without extra work.
Salary Sacrifice Schemes
A salary sacrifice scheme lets workers swap part of their pay for benefits like extra pension contributions or childcare vouchers. This means their taxable income drops, so they pay less tax and National Insurance.
For example, putting £100 a month into a pension via salary sacrifice might save around £32 in tax and NI. It also helps employers save on contributions, so many use these savings to improve employee benefits.
Workers should check with their HR department because not all companies offer the same schemes. This option is best for those who want to increase pension savings or reduce childcare costs.
Workplace Pension Contributions
Employers must contribute to workplace pensions, but many offer more than the legal minimum. Extra contributions mean workers build a bigger retirement pot without extra effort.
Some firms match every £1 an employee puts in, while others add a fixed percentage regardless. These payments are tax-efficient because they come from pre-tax income.
Workers should find out their employer’s contribution rates. Taking advantage of higher contributions can add thousands of pounds to retirement savings over time.
Employee Share Schemes
Employee share schemes let workers buy company shares at a discount or receive them tax-free. This not only increases their pay but also gives a stake in the company’s success.
There are different types, like Share Incentive Plans (SIPs) and Save As You Earn (SAYE) schemes. SIPs allow employees to get shares without tax if they hold them for at least five years.
SAYE lets workers save monthly amounts to buy shares later at a discounted price. Both schemes encourage saving and can lead to extra earnings through dividends and share growth.
Retail and Lifestyle Discounts
Many UK workers are unaware that they can save money on everyday shopping and travel. These discounts often apply automatically or after simple registration, making them easy to use.
Discounts on Shopping and Groceries
UK workers can access discounts on clothing, electrical goods, and groceries through schemes linked to their employer. Some retailers offer special employee pricing or loyalty rewards that reduce costs on popular brands.
Common discounts include 10-20% off at major supermarkets like Tesco or Sainsbury’s via employee benefit portals. Clothing stores such as Marks & Spencer or Next also provide markdowns when workers sign up with their work email addresses.
Online platforms like Perkbox and Edenred often give workers exclusive voucher codes for everyday purchases. These sites help users find discounts on household essentials, tech gadgets, and food items with minimal effort.
Travel and Transport Savings
Employees may qualify for reduced fares on trains, buses, and other transport through work-related schemes. The Railcard for £30 per year can cut train fares by a third, and some employers subsidise these costs.
Many companies participate in cycle-to-work schemes allowing workers to buy bikes tax-free, lowering commuting expenses. Car leasing deals and fuel discounts may also be offered through staff benefits packages.
Additionally, apps like Trainline and National Express sometimes offer exclusive deals to workers who register using their employer credentials. These can result in significant savings on daily or occasional travel costs.
Health, Wellness and Family Support Programmes
Many UK workers can access benefits that help with healthcare, fitness, and family costs. These programmes often lower expenses and improve well-being without extra effort from employees.
Private Healthcare and Dental Plans
Some employers offer private healthcare plans that cover faster access to medical treatments. These plans usually include specialist appointments, tests, and sometimes mental health support. Private dental plans may cover routine check-ups, cleanings, and some treatments.
Workers should check if their employer pays the full cost or shares it. Often, these plans save time by avoiding NHS waiting lists. Not all jobs provide this, but it is more common in sectors like finance, tech, and public services. Understanding what is covered is important to avoid unexpected bills.
Gym Membership and Fitness Subsidies
Many employers provide gym memberships or partial payments to encourage exercise. This can include local gyms, fitness classes, or online workout platforms. Subsidies lower the cost, making it easier to stay active regularly.
Some companies have agreements with nearby gyms, offering discounted rates. Others give vouchers or cashback for fitness purchases. Exercise benefits mental health and physical well-being, so these programmes are a practical perk that improves overall productivity and reduces sick days.
Childcare Vouchers and Family Assistance
Childcare vouchers help workers save money on nursery or childminder costs. This scheme lets employees pay for childcare from their pre-tax salary, reducing taxable income. Some employers also offer direct financial support for family expenses.
Family assistance might include flexible working hours or emergency childcare options. These supports make balancing work and home life easier. Workers with children should ask HR about these schemes, as they can lead to significant savings and less stress.
Maximising Hidden Benefits and Saving Opportunities
Many workers in the UK miss out on money-saving options related to their job expenses and skills development. These benefits can reduce costs and improve career prospects without much hassle.
Tax Relief on Work-Related Expenses
Employees can claim tax relief on certain work-related costs if their employer does not reimburse them. This includes expenses like uniforms, tools, mileage, or professional subscriptions needed for the job.
To claim, the expense must be necessary and solely for work. For example, buying protective clothing or paying for business travel. The relief is usually calculated based on the amount spent beyond a set threshold.
Claims can be made through a Self Assessment tax return or by contacting HMRC directly. It is important to keep receipts and records to support any claim.
Professional Development and Training Discounts
Many employers offer discounts or reimbursements for courses that improve an employee’s skills. Some businesses partner with training providers to give reduced fees or free access.
Government schemes like the Apprenticeship Levy also fund training for eligible workers. This can cover costs for qualifications or industry-recognised certificates.
Employees should check with their HR or training department about available discounts. Using these offers can make professional learning more affordable and help with career advancement.