April benefits highlights for University staff: Spring Mammography Program, Financial Literacy Month and family benefits

From health screenings for you and your family to tips for making informed financial decisions, Princeton’s benefits team highlights ongoing resources available to support your future.

April Is National Financial Literacy Month

It is never too late to learn about improving your financial well-being. This month is dedicated to showcasing the knowledge and resources that empower individuals to make wise financial choices. Check out these 10 tips from the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) to help you get started:

1. Create a budget: Calculate your monthly income and expenses to develop a suitable budget.
2. Track spending: Record every dollar you spend to maintain your budget.
3. Smart debt management: Avoid debt if possible; if it’s necessary, be aware of interest rates and ensure payments fit your budget.
4. Save for emergencies: Set aside some money monthly for emergencies.
5. Save for the future: Begin saving for retirement early to maximize growth.
6. Live within means: Limit unnecessary expenses and make wise purchasing decisions.
7. Plan for major expenses: Save and research significant purchases like a home or car.
8. Be cautious with credit: Avoid behaviors that lead to overspending and carrying a balance, which can lead to financial problems. 
9. Educate yourself: Understand personal finance and investing to make informed decisions.
10. Ask for help: Don’t hesitate to consult a financial adviser when you need assistance.

Spring Mammography Program

Early detection saves lives. The Princeton Mammography Program, available to you and your loved ones, runs through April 30. The University partners with Princeton Radiology to offer convenient mammogram appointment times, including early mornings, evenings and Saturdays. To schedule a mammogram, you will need a prescription from your primary care doctor or gynecologist. Get the full details.

Elder care

Caring for aging parents, a spouse or a loved one can be overwhelming. Princeton’s elder care resources, offered through Carebridge, can help you manage the challenges of caregiving. Contact (800) 437-0911 to speak with an elder care specialist.

Adoption, surrogacy and family planning benefit

The University provides reimbursement up to a lifetime maximum of $40,000 for expenses related to adoption, surrogacy, legal guardianship and the purchase and storage of medically necessary donor material. Details on eligibility and rules can be found on the Human Resources website. 

Health Advocate

Navigating health care can be difficult. Princeton’s Health Advocate program is available to you and your family members, at no cost, to explain a new diagnosis or understand a treatment plan, find in-network health care providers, resolve billing and claim issues, explain benefits coverage and more. Health Advocate also offers assistance in 11 different languages.

Wellness events and resources

Coping with Grief and Loss 

April 22, 2 p.m. | Register now 
Participate in this monthly support group to learn about common reactions and healthy ways to cope and heal. Participation is anonymous. 

Balancing Your Financial and Emotional Well-being 

April 24 at 11 a.m. | Register now 
Acquire strategies to manage your financial and emotional health during this session with Carebridge.

Financial wellness resources

Creative ways to reduce expenses 

TIAA recorded webinar    
Discover unconventional ways to boost your savings, cut hidden costs and make the minor spending adjustments that can lead to significant results.

Family wealth planning 

TIAA recorded webinar    
Maximize protection and proper distribution of your assets with these tips for legacy planning.

Planning for life milestones 

TIAA recorded webinar 
From marriage to the loss of a loved one, make sure you’re prepared for the steps in your life’s journey.  

Retirement Plan enhancements 

Managing your retirement savings just got easier. Learn more about the enhancements now available for the Princeton University Retirement Program. 

Financial planning 

Making decisions about your retirement accounts can be challenging. The University provides free, confidential resources from TIAA, CAPTRUST and Isles to help you manage your financial and retirement goals. 

• TIAA offers individual retirement planning advice, virtually or in person. To schedule a session, call (800) 842-2252 or make an appointment online. For a Spanish-speaking adviser, call (800) 414-5180.
• CAPTRUST, an independent investment advisory firm, provides confidential investment advice to retirement plan participants. For information, including articles, videos and other valuable resources, visit their website. To speak to a counselor about the University’s retirement plan or other financial issues, call (800) 967-9948.
• Isles is dedicated to helping people manage everyday money issues such as budgeting, saving and debt reduction. Contact Isles at (609) 341-4714. Counseling is available in English and Spanish.

In-person wellness consultations

The Employee Wellness Center at 350 Alexander St. is open for in-person consultations with health and financial advisers. Schedule a free, confidential appointment with one of the following resources:

Questions?

For specific inquiries regarding physical or mental wellness resources, contact Lynn Herbine. For financial wellness questions, contact Jane Edgar. The benefits team is also available to assist you at (609) 258-3302 or [email protected]. Visit the HR website for full details on all wellness resources and programs.

For comprehensive information about staff benefits, check out the April 2025 Thrive Every Day newsletter.