Flexible Benefits for Flexible Work: Shipt Portable Benefits Program Helps Support Shoppers' Financial Well-being
Utah pilot program allows shoppers with Shipt to earn benefits contributions while preserving flexibility
Shipt takes pride in exploring opportunities to enhance the financial well-being of app-based workers while preserving the flexibility and independence they desire. One way we’ve done this is through a first-of-its-kind pilot program launched in Utah last year, which offers shoppers in the state access to portable benefits.
Through the program, Shipt contributes funds to a portable benefits account, and qualified shoppers and drivers can allocate those funds toward benefits of their choice, including traditional benefits like health insurance or retirement savings. For shoppers like Mindy, who already have access to traditional benefits through a spouse or other source, funds can be applied to other benefits that match their unique needs, such as emergency savings, tuition, child care, or paid time off.
Hear from Utah shopper, Mindy:
What we’re hearing from shoppers and drivers across Shipt’s platform*:
Shoppers and drivers want the option to choose: Shoppers and drivers aren’t interested in the traditional benefits package that comes with being an employee. Like Mindy, many already receive traditional benefits, like health insurance, through another source. This is why a one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it.
Flexible work remains a top priority: Regardless of their unique circumstances, 8-in-10 shoppers and drivers say they would not be able to work with a company that required a set schedule.
Shoppers and drivers say flexibility is key: Most shoppers and drivers would prefer flexible work with the option to accrue portable benefits over being an employee with a standard benefits package.
Portable benefits offer app-based workers the additional financial security they want while preserving the flexibility they need.
While the Utah pilot program is ongoing, we are encouraged by early results and feedback from shoppers. We are excited to continue evaluating and learning what works and what features and benefit options matter most to shoppers and drivers.
*Based on a 2024 survey of 5,000 shoppers and drivers with Shipt.