Learn about portable benefits.
With 60M+ Americans working independently, many are left without a safety net. This means companies with 1099 contractors, part-time W-2 workers, and hybrid employee models often struggle with workforce instability. Continue reading to learn more about portable benefits and what they mean for the future of work.
What are portable benefits?
Unlike traditional benefits tied to a single employer, portable benefits stay with individuals regardless of where or how they work. These benefits typically include access to health, vision, and dental insurance, retirement savings, high-yield benefit savings accounts, and more.
A portable benefits account allows workers to manage their benefits and receive contributions from companies, so they can save and pay for those benefits.
For companies with 1099 contractors, part-time W-2 workers, or any kind of flexible workforce model, portable benefits offer a pathway to attract and retain top talent by enhancing the appeal of independent contractor roles through benefits offerings.
It reduces the legal uncertainties or grey areas associated with providing these benefits to independent contractors, allowing companies to design more competitive and supportive compensation packages.
The way the world is working has changed.
60M+
Americans
performed freelance work in the past year.
27M
individuals
do independent work full-time.
79%
of independent workers
want to keep the freedom and flexibility of independent work.
60M+
Americans
performed freelance work in the past year.
27M
individuals
do independent work full-time.
79%
of independent workers
want to keep the freedom and flexibility of independent work.
Articles and reports.
Want to dive deeper? Explore our blog posts to learn more about portable benefits.
We're in the news.
Lyft, Stride to Launch First-of its-Kind Rideshare Portable Benefits Program for Utah Drivers
DoorDash Announces Portable Benefits Savings Pilot Program Expanding to Dashers in Georgia
A New Era for Worker Freedom: Why Portable Benefits Matter
Gig Workers Left High and Dry When It Comes to Benefits
You might be wondering...
What happens to portable benefits if a worker leaves my company?
When a worker leaves a company, portable benefits remain with the worker. The worker maintains access to and ownership of their benefits and takes these benefits to their next job, freelance work, or period of unemployment.
This differs significantly from traditional employer-based benefits, which workers typically lose when leaving a job.
Are my part-time W-2s eligible?
Yes, part-time W-2s are eligible!
How should I think about providing portable benefits vs. an ICHRA?
When comparing portable benefits and ICHRAs, you’re looking at two different approaches to providing benefits with different structures and implications. ICHRAs are specifically for health insurance, while portable benefits encompass a wide range of benefits.
Partner with Stride.
Learn how you can support your workers with access to health insurance, savings, and tax tools — in one intuitive portable benefits platform.