The money questions HR shouldn't answer

This week on The Pete the Planner Show, Pete, Damian, and Kristen dive into one of the most universal workplace mysteries: why everyone treats HR like a certified financial planner… even though HR can barely tell you which parking pass to choose without checking a binder. Open enrollment, confusing benefits forms, retirement questions—employees fire all of it straight at HR hoping for guidance, clarity, or honestly just someone to make the decision for them. And while HR can walk you to the forms, they definitely cannot walk you through your medical history, risk tolerance, or whether your spouse is accident-prone. In this episode, we break down: Why HR gets stuck with financial questions in the first place The top “Please do not ask HR this” questions (yes, including the 401(k) ones) What HR is actually allowed to help you with How to get real answers without putting your HR team in legal jeopardy If you’ve ever stared at a PPO vs. HDHP page like it was ancient hieroglyphics—or asked HR which investments you should pick—this one’s for you. And for HR professionals everywhere: you’re welcome.