Six ways a four-day week could boost your bank balance

All of the latest UK firms to trial a four-day work week have gone on to adopt the practice permanently, it has been revealed.

Some 17 firms took part in the 4 Day Week Foundation’s latest six-month pilot that kicked off last November.

Since it finished, they have unanimously decided to continue with the new way of working, as they say their employees are happier and their businesses are thriving.

This brings the number of UK companies now offering permanent four-day weeks with no reduction in pay to over 230.

As well as a better work-life balance, a four-day work week can also offer employees significant financial benefits.

Here are six ways working fewer days could leave you with more money in your pocket.

1. Save money on work costs

Three years into adopting a four-day working week, accountancy company Whyfield have found:

• with 47 fewer commuting days a year, each member of the team saves an average of £470 in travel costs
• the firm’s working parents, are saving an average of £2,640 a year in childcare fees for under-fives. And, for some families, particularly those with children under two years old, savings are hitting £3,800 a year

2. Same pay, fewer hours = higher hourly rate

You effectively get a pay rise, earning more per hour.

3. Less likely to lose pay as a result of sick days

Following UK trials of the four-day working week, 3,000 employees were asked about their experience:

• 71% had reduced burnout
• 43% reported better mental health
• 46% felt less fatigued
• 40% slept better 

If you feel better mentally and physically, you’re less likely to lose pay as a result of sick days. 

4. Boosted productivity can lead to higher pay

Many companies are reporting improved productivity following the adoption of a four-day working week. Software firm BrandPipe saw financial performance double in its trial period. Higher productivity, and therefore profits, may lead to bigger bonuses and pay rises for staff.

5. Stronger retention makes employees more valuable

A four-day week encourages employees to stay in their roles for longer. For employees, this may mean better pension and bonus potential tied to longevity.

6. Better work–life balance nurtures income opportunities

Having an extra day off creates space for side‑hustles, upskilling or freelance work, boosting your overall earnings without reducing your main income.

What’s not to love?

The four-day working week isn’t just good for your wellbeing – it could also be a smart move for your finances. From shaving hundreds off your commuting and childcare bills, to boosting your hourly rate and creating time to earn more on the side, the potential money-saving benefits are hard to ignore. As more UK employers make the switch, not only is this new way of working boosting people’s leisure time – it’s also helping them work smarter, live better and build stronger financial futures.