{"id":821,"date":"2020-01-02T14:13:56","date_gmt":"2020-01-02T21:13:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/?p=821"},"modified":"2026-03-10T02:41:54","modified_gmt":"2026-03-10T08:41:54","slug":"wellness-program-incentive-ideas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/","title":{"rendered":"18 Wellness Program Incentive Ideas From the Best Corporate Wellness Programs"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Why_do_we_need_wellness_plan_incentives\" >Why do we need wellness plan incentives?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Why_should_employers_use_wellness_program_incentives\" >Why should employers use wellness program incentives?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#What_benefits-based_wellness_incentive_ideas_are_most_effective\" >What benefits-based wellness incentive ideas are most effective?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#How_can_wellness_platforms_track_and_manage_incentive_programs\" >How can wellness platforms track and manage incentive programs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#What_incentive_ideas_are_used_by_top_corporate_wellness_programs\" >What incentive ideas are used by top corporate wellness programs?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#What_incentive_strategies_have_been_used_by_Koop_Award_applicants\" >What incentive strategies have been used by Koop Award applicants?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#What_additional_examples_come_from_Koop_Award_applicants\" >What additional examples come from Koop Award applicants?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_1\" >Company 1<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_2\" >Company 2<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_3\" >Company 3<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_4\" >Company 4<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_5\" >Company 5<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_6\" >Company 6<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_7\" >Company 7<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_8\" >Company 8<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_9\" >Company 9<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_10\" >Company 10<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_11\" >Company 11<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_12\" >Company 12<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_13\" >Company 13<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_14\" >Company 14<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Company_15\" >Company 15<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#How_should_employers_structure_their_wellness_incentive_strategy\" >How should employers structure their wellness incentive strategy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote executive-summary is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-width:1px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);font-size:17px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p style=\"font-size:20px\"><strong>Executive Summary<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group executive-summary\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p style=\"font-size:18px\"><strong>What are effective incentive ideas for a wellness program?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"executive-summary\" style=\"font-size:16px\">Effective wellness program incentives encourage participation by rewarding healthy actions that employees can realistically achieve. The most successful incentives are simple, fair, and tied to behaviors like completing activities, building healthy habits, or staying engaged over time. Incentives work best when they motivate without feeling punitive or overly complex. When designed well, they increase participation, improve morale, and support lasting behavior change.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-do-we-need-wellness-plan-incentives\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_do_we_need_wellness_plan_incentives\"><\/span>Why do we need wellness plan incentives?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Unless motivated, most employees will have a hard time beginning and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Because, <strong>behavior change is one of the most difficult things that we do as humans. <\/strong>Every successful well-being program has implemented some form of these wellness program incentive. The following ideas help employees start changing their behavior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many types of incentives. And, employees must meet various requirements to earn those incentives.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/18-Wellness-Program-Incentive-Ideas-From-the-Best-Corporate-Wellness-Programs-in-2022-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"wellness program incentive ideas, wellness prize ideas, incentive program ideas\" class=\"wp-image-105468\" style=\"width:650px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/18-Wellness-Program-Incentive-Ideas-From-the-Best-Corporate-Wellness-Programs-in-2022-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/18-Wellness-Program-Incentive-Ideas-From-the-Best-Corporate-Wellness-Programs-in-2022-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/18-Wellness-Program-Incentive-Ideas-From-the-Best-Corporate-Wellness-Programs-in-2022-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/18-Wellness-Program-Incentive-Ideas-From-the-Best-Corporate-Wellness-Programs-in-2022-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/18-Wellness-Program-Incentive-Ideas-From-the-Best-Corporate-Wellness-Programs-in-2022-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/05\/18-Wellness-Program-Incentive-Ideas-From-the-Best-Corporate-Wellness-Programs-in-2022.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>In the past 10 years, WellSteps has helped hundreds of clients set up and manage <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20230107170740\/https:\/\/www.shrm.org\/ResourcesAndTools\/hr-topics\/benefits\/Documents\/RAND_RB9842.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">well-being incentive plans.<\/a> We&#8217;ve seen just about every kind of incentive and qualification requirement possible. Some of these have been a huge successes and others\u2014not so much. Here are the best wellness program incentive ideas we&#8217;ve seen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentives\/\">Wellness Program Incentives: The Complete Guide<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-should-employers-use-wellness-program-incentives\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_should_employers_use_wellness_program_incentives\"><\/span>Why should employers use wellness program incentives?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The goal of the wellness program is to help employees adopt and maintain healthy behaviors. Employees perform best when they feel internally motivated to stay healthy. But sometimes employees get stuck in unhealthy habits and need help adopting and maintaining healthy behaviors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best way to do this is to provide small incentives, such as gift cards, to randomly selected employees who successfully complete different aspects of the wellness program. We have great <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/wellsteps-research\">published scientific evidence<\/a> that this incentive approach works.&nbsp; It is the incentive approach that WellSteps recommends to all of our clients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Employees can qualify for a drawing if they complete a personal health assessment, biometric screening, a behavior change campaign, or a challenge. <strong>All employees do not get an incentive for completing the target behavior because that leads to entitlement.<\/strong> Instead, they earn the <em>chance<\/em> to win\u2014sort of like the lottery, only not as big. Just having a chance to win is fun and is sufficient to motivate most employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, when 350 out of 500 employees in a company complete a behavior change campaign, all 350 get entered to win gift cards, prizes, or event tickets. These small gifts given immediately upon program completion make the program more fun. They create the opportunity for vicarious reinforcement, and provide substantial motivation to participate at very little cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/\">18 Wellness Program Incentive Ideas From the Best Corporate Wellness Programs<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-benefits-based-wellness-incentive-ideas-are-most-effective\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_benefits-based_wellness_incentive_ideas_are_most_effective\"><\/span>What benefits-based wellness incentive ideas are most effective?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Employers get even greater adoption of employee health behavior with a benefits-based incentive plan. Benefits-based well-being incentive programs typically offer employees: <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>discounts on their insurance premium<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>paid time off<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>contribution to an HSA or HRA<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>lower co-pays or deductibles <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Benefits-based incentives are considerably more&nbsp;expensive than randomly selecting winners of small gifts. But they also have more impact on employee engagement. <strong>All employees who complete the work to earn the reward receive these incentives. <\/strong>Many WellSteps clients offer a $50\/month health insurance premium discount. This adds up to $600 per year <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20230603215309\/https:\/\/incentivesolutions.com\/blog\/budget-incentive-program\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">budget per employee<\/a> who qualifies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The dollar amount of the benefit-based incentives should be large enough to motivate employees. But not so large that it creates an entitlement mentality among program participants.&nbsp;Benefits-based incentive requirements should be substantial because the financial incentive should also be meaningful. We have noted over the past 14 years that a premium differential incentive in the range of $30-$40 per month is optimal for achieving best outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When combined with simple, short-term prizes, benefits-based incentives will provide employees with motivation. Hopefully, enough to get the wellness ball rolling until they begin to feel the internal benefits of a healthy lifestyle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>When combined with simple, short-term prizes, benefits-based incentives will provide employees with enough motivation to get the wellness ball rolling until they begin to feel the internal benefits of a healthy lifestyle.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-incentive-management\/\">How Effective Wellness Programs do Wellness Incentive Management<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-can-wellness-platforms-track-and-manage-incentive-programs\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_wellness_platforms_track_and_manage_incentive_programs\"><\/span>How can wellness platforms track and manage incentive programs?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Don&#8217;t forget, though, to make it easy for employees to report their progress towards earning the incentive. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/wellsteps-rewards\">WellSteps rewards program<\/a> is our web-based incentive tracking platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"552\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/rewards-1024x552.png\" alt=\"WellSteps rewards program, wellness incentive program examples\" class=\"wp-image-4211\" style=\"width:1024px;height:552px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/rewards-1024x552.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/rewards-300x162.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/rewards-768x414.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/rewards.png 1183w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Undoubtedly, this platform allows employees to easily report completion of incentive requirements. Most often, the system automatically reports the completion of requirements when employees finish a campaign or challenge. However, sometimes, employers require employees to provide verification that they have completed certain activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Thus, to make this process simple, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/wellsteps-apps\">WellSteps app<\/a> allows employees to take a picture of the verification and have it automatically uploaded to their account. In short, the rewards incentive platform makes it easy to track and validate employees progress towards earning their incentives.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"513\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/screening_verify-1024x513.jpg\" alt=\"WellSteps app\" class=\"wp-image-4219\" style=\"width:430px;height:215px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/screening_verify-1024x513.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/screening_verify-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/screening_verify-768x385.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/01\/screening_verify.jpg 1059w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-incentive-ideas-are-used-by-top-corporate-wellness-programs\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_incentive_ideas_are_used_by_top_corporate_wellness_programs\"><\/span>What incentive ideas are used by top corporate wellness programs?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For the past 25 years, the <a href=\"http:\/\/thehealthproject.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">C. Everett Koop Health Project <\/a>has carefully evaluated wellness program applicants and awarded the very best well-being programs in the United States with the Koop Award. The application process is certainly rigorous and requires programs to provide ample documentation that their programs improve employee health behaviors and reduce employee-related costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But <strong>it is the most rigorous wellness program evaluation in existence.<\/strong> Only the best corporate well-being programs even attempt to apply, and only the best of the best actually win the <a href=\"http:\/\/thehealthproject.com\/award-information-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Koop award.<\/a> Below are two lists:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Incentive ideas from someone who reviewed applications from the nation&#8217;s best corporate wellness programs, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>incentive qualification requirements used by these organizations.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Hopefully, these two lists will provide ideas that improve the effectiveness of any well-being program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/effective-workplace-health-programs\/\">How Effective Workplace Health Programs Reduce Health Care Costs<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-incentive-strategies-have-been-used-by-koop-award-applicants\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_incentive_strategies_have_been_used_by_Koop_Award_applicants\"><\/span>What incentive strategies have been used by Koop Award applicants?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>&#8220;Health cash&#8221; for employees and spouses not participating in company health insurance plan but participating with sustained engagement in company wellness program.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Up to 12% discount on employee health insurance premium contribution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>5% premium discount for sustained yearlong participation in the wellness program.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>$500 gift card raffled bi-weekly to encourage engagement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>$50 to $100 for enrollment or completing well-being requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>$100 for completed HRA, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/what-to-know-about-a-biometric-screening#:~:text=A%20biometric%20screening%20is%20a%20fancy%20name%20for%20a%20collection,factors%20for%20certain%20chronic%20conditions.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">biometric screening<\/a>, personal health report with action plan &amp; optional health coaching.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Raffle off a full day of paid time off for completing a health assessment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bonuses and merit pay increases tied to program participation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Raffle of an all-expense paid trip to a 14,000-foot mountain climb.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contributions up to $1,000 into a health reimbursement account.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Up to $800 per couple into additional <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthcare.gov\/job-based-help\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Health Reimbursement Arrangement funds.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Discounts or reimbursement of up to $400 annually for off-site fitness club memberships.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tobacco-free discount on medical plan premiums. For example, 20% off medical premiums for non-users or users who participate in a certified smoking cessation program.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>$100 for completing a qualifying smoking cessation program.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Up to 6 months Weight Watchers per year with active participation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flex benefit credits.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Drawings for iPads, TVs with Wii Fit, gift cards, travel vouchers, fitness equipment, and T-shirts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Celebration and recognition events.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-additional-examples-come-from-koop-award-applicants\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_additional_examples_come_from_Koop_Award_applicants\"><\/span>What additional examples come from Koop Award applicants?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-1\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_1\"><\/span>Company 1<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The company incentivized over 30 verifiable activities and measurable outcomes..<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Employee only\/employee received a $100\/$200 contribution discount by completing an HRA, selecting a goal based on their unique health risks, and participating in five well-being-related activities.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-2\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_2\"><\/span>Company 2<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Eligible for a $150 medical plan premium credit by earning points for participating in wellness behavior. Employees who showed documented health improvements or maintained a current level of health were eligible for premium credit or the top program in a tiered medical plan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_3\"><\/span>Company 3<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The incentive plan was designed to reward those for maintaining a healthy weight (as measured by <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20240930215202\/https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/healthyweight\/assessing\/bmi\/adult_bmi\/english_bmi_calculator\/bmi_calculator.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">BMI<\/a>) or losing 10% of their weight if they began the year with an above normal BMI. Participants losing between 0% and 9.9% were rewarded with partial points to recognize the effort of small changes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incentive points were also provided for those who reported body weight once each week for 20 weeks during the program year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Employees could also earn a year-end wellness bonus.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/wellsteps-guides-2-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"customer stories of wellness programs\" class=\"wp-image-104798\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/wellsteps-guides-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/wellsteps-guides-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/wellsteps-guides-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/wellsteps-guides-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/wellsteps-guides-2-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/wellsteps-guides-2.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-4\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_4\"><\/span>Company 4<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The company administered premium differential incentives monthly for program compliance and recovered costs from non-participants.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The HRA and biometric screenings were a necessary gate for wellness health plan entry.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The company leveraged corporate incentives to promote group behavior changes and improve corporate culture, earning national health promotion awards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fitness Center participation incentives were $480 or more<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additionally, Weight Management participation incentives were $250 or more<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For program Year 3, participants received $25 cash for health risk assessment completion, and $50 cash quarterly wellness bonus for continued participation in programs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/01\/best-worksite-wellness-programs\/\">How the Best Worksite Wellness Programs Change Behavior<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-5\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_5\"><\/span>Company 5<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Parking incentives for using the most remote spots.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Discounted health insurance premiums to employees who took a health pledge and a health risk assessment and agreed to a <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220504174406\/https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/quit-smoking\/in-depth\/smoking-cessation\/art-20045441\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">smoking cessation program<\/a>, if needed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition, the company provided discounts on cafeteria selections with higher nutritional value.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The company also regularly offered employees coupons for healthy food choices at a local supermarket chain..<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additionally, leadership and peers recognized employees in several ways.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-6\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_6\"><\/span>Company 6<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Employees earned points to be active and eat well, which they could cash in for up to $300 annually or for up to 12 hours of paid time off.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To motivate employees to \u201cknow their numbers,\u201d the company offered free screenings and incentives like free movie tickets for completing a personal health assessment, as well as a chance to win a free iPad and other prizes in drawings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-7\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_7\"><\/span>Company 7<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The company contributed $600 to the health plan for employees and their spouses\/domestic partners who participated in the annual on-site screenings and health assessment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition, when employees and spouses engaged in healthy activities, they earned \u201cmiles,\u201d which served as a common currency to reward healthy behaviors and promote conversation about health improvement activities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Health management program participation lead to a significant cash incentive in the form of a payroll reduction for health plan contributions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To sustain engagement in health improvement activities beyond the health plan contribution, employees and spouses\/domestic partners who continued beyond the base incentive were rewarded with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.westfieldhealth.com\/blog\/what-is-a-health-cash-plan-and-why-do-i-need-one\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Health Cash<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/04\/22\/employee-wellness-gifts\/\">10 Employee Wellness Gifts to Incentivize Healthy Behavior in the Workplace<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-8\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_8\"><\/span>Company 8<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The company replaced the sick leave policy with a wellness-based incentive policy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The maximum incentive award an employee could earn per year was 3 days of pay.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The company also offered an educational online option, allowing shift employees and those unable to participate in other programs to gain health awareness and earn incentive dollars. Employees had to complete four modules, and a post-test with a score of 100% tracked the credit at the session&#8217;s conclusion.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-9\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_9\"><\/span>Company 9<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A maximum of $600 in benefits premium reduction could be earned for completing the health assessment. Employees also had the option to earn up to $300 (employees\/spouses) to put into a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.healthcare.gov\/glossary\/health-savings-account-hsa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Health Savings Account <\/a>if specific health programs were completed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-10\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_10\"><\/span>Company 10<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reward of $75 with a maximum opportunity to earn $250 per year, to meet with a health coach and bring in copies of their preventative exams.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/demosignup\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"482\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/guarantee-1024x482.png\" alt=\"top wellness programs\" class=\"wp-image-2281\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/guarantee-1024x482.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/guarantee-300x141.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/guarantee-768x362.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/03\/guarantee.png 1501w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-11\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_11\"><\/span>Company 11<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>All employees completed an annual health assessment with biometrics and completed a health action plan to receive up to $800 contributed to their Health Reimbursement Account.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Employees enrolled in the medical plan received a $200 incentive if they complete a health assessment\u2014and another $200 if they created\/agreed to follow a health action plan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Employees receive $400 more if their enrolled spouses\/domestic partners did the same.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reimbursement for off-site fitness club membership (up to $400 per family annually) if participants\/spouses used the club at least two times\/week (average).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A discount of about 20% off medical premiums was offered to tobacco non-users or users who participated in a certified cessation program.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two free <a href=\"https:\/\/www.weightwatchers.com\/us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Weight Watchers<\/a> sessions for up to six months per year if active participation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prizes and recognition for winning and drawings for participation in local health competitions and events.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additionally, participation incentives included pedometers, iPads, flatscreen TV w\/Wii Fit, etc.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/01\/corporate-fitness-programs\/\">13 Corporate Fitness Programs That Lead the Pack<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-12\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_12\"><\/span>Company 12<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Employees were rewarded an annual $390 health insurance premium reduction for completing the health assessment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incentives were provided for participation in exercise, fitness centers, Weight Watchers, smoking cessation, disease management or health risk reduction programs. Employee\u2019s health reimbursement account (HRA) was credited $300 ($200 for spouse) for biometric screening&nbsp;and $130 for being a non-tobacco user.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Employees with identified conditions (diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease) also received a 50 percent co-insurance reduction for drug costs related to managing those conditions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Participants were given a $100 incentive upon weight management program completion as well as the opportunity to receive gift cards during the program.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-13\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_13\"><\/span>Company 13<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Personal Health Assessment incentive of $100 per year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tobacco-free discount of $10 per week.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>24\/7 nurse advice call-line.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Preventive screenings, onsite support groups, pharmacy medication therapy management and free diabetic supply programs, proactive case and disease management, and onsite medical services were provided for office\/warehouse employees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Value-based program was also offered to tobacco-users who wanted to quit using <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220809115536\/https:\/\/www.chantix.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Chantix <\/a>and who completed related telephonic coaching programs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/03\/29\/costs-advantages-employee-wellness-program\/\">The Costs and Advantages of an Employee Wellness Program<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-14\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_14\"><\/span>Company 14<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A year-end incentive award was offered for completing a program. But, there were different tiers of achievement so someone not meeting all of the criteria still had a chance to earn an award and thus had incentive to participate. Any participant reaching the highest tier of achievement, in addition to the monetary award, was entered into a drawing for a trip for 4 to Disney World. Six trips were given away each year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Those participating had an incentive to quit tobacco and\/or remain tobacco free. Attesting to being tobacco-free and remaining tobacco-free all year saved participants $11 a week off the health insurance premium. An employee who started the year as a tobacco user but who quit at any time during the year, were eligible for a premium reduction from that point to the end of the year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incentives were increased by raising the maximum potential end-of-year cash payout by $150 (from $250 to $400) and by introducing the employee premium discount which could be worth more than $500 a year.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-company-15\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Company_15\"><\/span>Company 15<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Those with specific health risks who agreed to quarterly telephone conversations with health coaches were immediately eligible for reduced premiums or credits.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Employees who declined to participate in the wellness program though forfeited premium discounts totaling $500 or more annually.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>However, employees with targeted chronic diseases such as diabetes, coronary artery disease or congestive heart failure or who were pregnant at the time, were eligible for additional incentives worth $460 per year.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentives\/\">Wellness Program Incentives: The Complete Guide<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-should-employers-structure-their-wellness-incentive-strategy\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_should_employers_structure_their_wellness_incentive_strategy\"><\/span>How should employers structure their wellness incentive strategy?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, hopefully you can see that there are many options, ideas, and combinations of ways you can put together an incentive program to support your employees&#8217; wellness. However, You don\u2019t need to feel overwhelmed or create your program without help. And, it doesn&#8217;t matter if this is entirely new to you or if your current program needs a refresh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here at WellSteps, we&#8217;re happy to help you wherever you are. In fact, your&#8217;re invited to a <a href=\"http:\/\/wellsteps.com\/demosignup\"><strong>free demo with a member of our team.<\/strong><\/a> So, come discover how to take your benefits package and your employee&#8217;s wellness to the next level of your company&#8217;s success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>RELATED:  <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2022\/04\/22\/employee-wellness-gifts\/\">10 Employee Wellness Gifts to Incentivize Healthy Behavior in the Workplace<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"wellsteps.com\/demosignup\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"601\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA1-1024x601.png\" alt=\"nations best wellness program\" class=\"wp-image-104675\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA1-1024x601.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA1-300x176.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA1-768x451.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/CTA1.png 1201w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1772840985079\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What are good wellness prizes?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">In general, depending on your company&#8217;s budget, wellness prizes can range from physical and digital gifts or prizes from $10 to $300. The key is to have the value just high enough to motivate your employees, but also to not make them feel entitled by participating.<br><br><strong>Having a variety of options that employees can win by participating meets more of the desires of more of your people.<\/strong> Use your wellness committee to brainstorm different options, or get feedback from employees on exactly what prizes or items they&#8217;d desire. But, You may need a bit of trial and error.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1772840986323\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What are some incentive examples?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Incentives can range from cash prizes, increased benefits, and even swag or activities. Letting your employees choose from a variety of options based on their participation in your wellness program is even greater incentive than just holding a basic raffle drawing.<br><br>Some examples that we&#8217;ve seen with WellSteps clients are all across the board and work well in their own ways. Such as:<br>&#8211; gift cards<br>&#8211; quality gym bags or swag<br>&#8211; memberships to local health-oriented places<br>&#8211; extra paid time off<br>&#8211; off-site wellness classes<br>&#8211; group activities during work hours<br>&#8211; bonuses for hitting health goals<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1772840987145\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How do you incentivize employee wellness?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Your employees need to know, specifically, all of the benefits of making a healthy behavioral change or participation in the program up front. This involves more than just educating them on health benefits. We all know how to be healthier. Employees and the company need greater motivation and engagement to see real benefits.<br><br>So, after deciding on the incentives, clearly communicate them within your wellness program to employees. They should know up front before even starting their program so there is no confusion or surprises.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773132033128\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What wellness program incentive ideas motivate employees the most?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The most effective wellness program incentive ideas reward consistency\u2014gift cards, raffle entries, PTO hours, and wellness swag all motivate employees to participate long-term.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773132033833\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How can HR pick the right wellness program incentive ideas for their team?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Choose wellness program incentive ideas that match your culture. If your team values flexibility, PTO might be best; if they love fun, raffles work well.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773132034509\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Why do small rewards still make a big impact in wellness programs?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"> Employees appreciate acknowledgment. Even small wellness program incentive ideas create positive reinforcement that helps build lasting habits.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773132035781\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How can digital tools support these wellness program incentive ideas?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">WellSteps Rewards streamlines the administration of wellness program incentive ideas\u2014tracking progress, verifying completion, and awarding points automatically.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773132036663\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What\u2019s the easiest way to start using these wellness program incentive ideas?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Start with one or two simple incentives. Then add more wellness program incentive ideas over time as employees get more engaged.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This article provides is a list of 18 employee well-being program incentive ideas from the nation&#8217;s best corporate wellness 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Dr. Aldana authored over 75 scientific papers and 7 books on health risk management, healthy living, and health promotion programs. He has given over 350 keynote speeches across the U.S. on the ability of good nutrition and regular exercise to prevent, arrest, and reverse many chronic diseases.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com"],"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/author\/steve\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1772840985079","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1772840985079","name":"What are good wellness prizes?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"In general, depending on your company's budget, wellness prizes can range from physical and digital gifts or prizes from $10 to $300. The key is to have the value just high enough to motivate your employees, but also to not make them feel entitled by participating.<br><br><strong>Having a variety of options that employees can win by participating meets more of the desires of more of your people.<\/strong> Use your wellness committee to brainstorm different options, or get feedback from employees on exactly what prizes or items they'd desire. But, You may need a bit of trial and error.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1772840986323","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1772840986323","name":"What are some incentive examples?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Incentives can range from cash prizes, increased benefits, and even swag or activities. Letting your employees choose from a variety of options based on their participation in your wellness program is even greater incentive than just holding a basic raffle drawing.<br><br>Some examples that we've seen with WellSteps clients are all across the board and work well in their own ways. Such as:<br>- gift cards<br>- quality gym bags or swag<br>- memberships to local health-oriented places<br>- extra paid time off<br>- off-site wellness classes<br>- group activities during work hours<br>- bonuses for hitting health goals","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1772840987145","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1772840987145","name":"How do you incentivize employee wellness?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Your employees need to know, specifically, all of the benefits of making a healthy behavioral change or participation in the program up front. This involves more than just educating them on health benefits. We all know how to be healthier. Employees and the company need greater motivation and engagement to see real benefits.<br><br>So, after deciding on the incentives, clearly communicate them within your wellness program to employees. They should know up front before even starting their program so there is no confusion or surprises.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1773132033128","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1773132033128","name":"What wellness program incentive ideas motivate employees the most?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The most effective wellness program incentive ideas reward consistency\u2014gift cards, raffle entries, PTO hours, and wellness swag all motivate employees to participate long-term.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1773132033833","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1773132033833","name":"How can HR pick the right wellness program incentive ideas for their team?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Choose wellness program incentive ideas that match your culture. If your team values flexibility, PTO might be best; if they love fun, raffles work well.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1773132034509","position":6,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1773132034509","name":"Why do small rewards still make a big impact in wellness programs?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":" Employees appreciate acknowledgment. Even small wellness program incentive ideas create positive reinforcement that helps build lasting habits.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1773132035781","position":7,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1773132035781","name":"How can digital tools support these wellness program incentive ideas?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"WellSteps Rewards streamlines the administration of wellness program incentive ideas\u2014tracking progress, verifying completion, and awarding points automatically.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1773132036663","position":8,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/wellness-program-incentive-ideas\/#faq-question-1773132036663","name":"What\u2019s the easiest way to start using these wellness program incentive ideas?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Start with one or two simple incentives. 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