12 Workplace Perks You Should Be Asking For Now

Many job seekers focus primarily on salary during negotiations, but overlooking additional perks can cost you thousands of dollars in total compensation over time. Perks can add real value, and for many candidates they matter more than a higher paycheck. According to Glassdoor, more than 60% of job seekers prioritize benefits and perks over a larger salary. Below are 15 negotiable perks to consider that can increase your overall compensation and improve your work-life balance.

Paid Time Off Can Be More Valuable Than You Think

An extra week of paid time off can easily be worth $1,500 or more, depending on your salary. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) notes that paid leave is one of the most commonly negotiated non-salary perks. Employers are often more flexible with time than with cash because they can schedule coverage more easily, so asking for additional PTO is frequently a productive negotiation tactic.

Get Your Commute Subsidized Or Shortened

Commuting takes time and money: INRIX reports that the average U.S. commuter loses 54 hours per year to traffic. Employers may offer a stipend, flexible hours, or remote options to reduce commute time. If you rely on public transit, ask about tax-advantaged commuter benefits—up to $300 per month can be deducted pre-tax in some programs—reducing your taxable income and out-of-pocket commute costs.

You Can Ask For A Conference Budget

Asking for a professional development or conference budget benefits both you and your employer. The Association for Talent Development finds that companies investing in employee learning tend to see substantially higher revenue per employee. Even a modest annual allowance—$1,000 or more—can fund seminars, courses, or conferences that accelerate your career growth and pay off in the long run.

Push For A Clear 30-Day Onboarding Plan

Starting a new role without clear expectations often wastes time. Request a 30-day onboarding roadmap detailing shadowing, check-ins, training sessions, and initial goals. Executives and coaches emphasize that a well-structured onboarding plan improves early performance and retention. You don’t need a rigid script, but a clear outline helps you ramp up faster and avoids weeks of uncertainty.

Arrange Tuition Assistance, Especially If You’re Still Paying Off School

If you have student loans, ask whether the company offers loan repayment assistance or tuition reimbursement. Many employers can contribute monthly to loan payments or reimburse continuing education costs. The IRS allows employers to exclude up to $5,250 per year in education assistance from an employee’s taxable income, which makes this an attractive option for both parties and a negotiable benefit that can significantly ease financial pressure.

Food Stipends Can Save You Hundreds A Month

Food stipends or partnerships with nearby restaurants can meaningfully reduce daily expenses. HR leaders note that these perks save employees both time and money, especially in high-cost cities. Meal benefits are often tax-advantaged or subsidized by employers and can discreetly increase your effective take-home value.

Stock Options Aren’t Just For Tech Executives

If you’re joining a pre-IPO company or one that offers equity, consider negotiating stock options or restricted stock units as part of your compensation. Equity can offset a lower base salary, but it carries risks. Ask for clear terms on vesting schedules, valuation, and potential dilution so you can weigh the upside against the uncertainty.

You Can Negotiate For A Gym Or Wellness Stipend

Wellness stipends for gym memberships, fitness classes, or health apps are common at large companies because healthier employees take fewer sick days. Smaller firms may also offer $50 to $100 per month to cover fitness or wellness expenses. These low-cost perks improve morale and reduce absenteeism while supporting employee health.

Flexible Schedules Help Parents And Non-Parents Alike

Flexible schedules, such as working four 10-hour days instead of five 8-hour days, can reduce childcare costs and improve work-life balance. Gallup reports that many employees with flexible schedules feel more productive. Flexibility benefits all employees, not just parents, by providing better control over when and where work gets done.

Work-From-Home Fridays

If the role is primarily office-based, requesting a regular remote day—such as working from home on Fridays—can be an easy win. Remote days often reduce distractions, improve focus, and boost morale. For employers it’s an inexpensive perk that can increase retention and productivity while reducing burnout.

Don’t Forget About Severance

Discussing severance terms during negotiations isn’t pessimistic—it’s prudent. Agreeing on exit terms up front creates transparency and reduces future uncertainty. Career strategists suggest that bringing up severance shows foresight and professionalism, and can protect you if circumstances change.

Request Extra Vacation Without Pay Docking

Unlimited vacation policies can sound appealing but sometimes create ambiguity and unspoken pressure not to take time off. When possible, request a guaranteed number of paid days in writing. Clear, written agreements prevent misunderstandings and ensure you can actually use the vacation time you’re promised.

Ask for Home Office Support Instead

If remote work is part of the role, request a home office stipend for setup or monthly tech support to cover internet or equipment. A one-time allowance for a desk and chair or continuing support for connectivity can make remote work sustainable and comfortable. Many employers already offer these benefits, so don’t hesitate to ask.

Negotiate Paid Parental Leave, Even If It’s A Few Years Away

Paid parental leave is still limited—only a minority of U.S. workers have access to it. If you plan to start or grow a family in the coming years, negotiate parental leave now rather than waiting. Many companies are willing to offer competitive leave policies to attract and retain talent.

Consider Alternating Shift Schedules To Save Money

Switching to an alternative schedule—such as working fewer but longer days—can reduce commuting and childcare costs while improving personal time. Fewer trips to the office and one less childcare day each week can accumulate significant savings. Consultants note that these schedules can also reduce burnout and enhance work autonomy without increasing pay.

When negotiating, prioritize the mix of perks that matter most to you—time, development, flexibility, or financial support. Often a combination of smaller benefits can exceed the practical value of a modest salary increase, so consider the full compensation package when evaluating job offers.