Fear of not being able to rely on Social Security for at least some of their retirement income is prompting employees to save more for later years, according to a survey commissioned by the Financial Services Roundtable.
At the same time, a majority of workers feel secure in their jobs and highly value the benefits provided, says the survey conducted by the Employee Benefit Research Institute, which questioned 1,007 people.
While 85% of those surveyed rate health insurance as the most important benefit, 69% feel retirement benefits are the most important. The percentage who value retirement benefits the most rose as age and income rose. People (36%) have taken jobs because of the benefits; 40% have stayed with a job because of benefits, and 10% have left a job because of a lack of benefits.
At the same time, 62% were not confident of receiving Social Security when they retire, although they consider it an important part of retirement. To counter that fear of loss, 66% are taking some action, such as saving more or buying more life insurance.
The Financial Services Roundtable represents 100 financial services companies that provide investment products, banking and insurance. The goal of the survey is "to help Americans come out of the economic downturn better educated and better armed to reach financial security," says Steve Bartlett, CEO of The Financial Services Roundtable.
Ron O'Hanley, chair of the roundtable, adds, "In these uncertain times, we are seeing evidence that many people are taking charge of their finances (and) taking more responsibility for their own financial well being."