Some Big News (and a Big Mission): Paidly is HR Tech Outlook’s "Student Loan Repayment Benefit of the Year"

Hey everyone – John Scully here.

I have some pretty incredible news to share with our community.

I’m thrilled (and honestly, a little awestruck) to announce that Paidly was recently featured by HR Tech Outlook as the 2026 Student Loan Repayment Benefit of the Year! You can check out the full story on their website: hrtechoutlook.com/paidly-2026.

When we started Paidly, we weren't looking for trophies. We were looking at a generation of workers – our friends, our colleagues, maybe even you – who were starting their careers with $30,000 to $50,000 already "in the red." We wanted to build a bridge between the companies that care and the employees who deserve real, lasting support.

Being recognized by HR Tech Outlook feels like a massive "yes" from the industry. It’s proof that the way we’re helping employers pay down student debt isn’t just working – it’s a whole new standard.

But... we’re not just here for the awards

As much as I love a good celebration, an award is only as good as the impact it helps us make. And right now, we have our sights set on something even bigger than a title: passing Bill S4202A in New York State.

If you haven’t heard us shouting about it yet, NYS Bill S4202A is a game-changer. It’s designed to make it easier (and more financially savvy) for New York employers to support their team's student loans through tax-free payroll contributions.

Here’s why I’m personally obsessed with getting this passed:

• It helps the "little guys": I want the local bakery and the 10-person tech startup to have the same recruiting power as the big dogs. This bill provides the tax incentives to make that happen.
• It keeps talent at home: New York has some of the best schools and the best graduates. We shouldn't be losing them to other states because they can’t afford the rent on top of their loan payments.
• It’s just common sense: The 401(k) was a revolution for our parents’ generation. Student loan assistance is how we’re shaping the future of benefits.

Why this award matters for the bill

Having the "Benefit of the Year" title gives us a seat at the table with lawmakers and business leaders that we didn't have before. It’s proof that this isn't just a "nice idea" – it’s a proven, award-winning solution that New York needs to adopt on a wider scale.

To everyone who has supported Paidly so far: thank you. This award belongs to our partners and our users as much as it does to us.

Now, let’s get back to work and get NYS Bill S4202A over the finish line!

Onward,

John Scully | Paidly CEO