Retirement is supposed to be the “golden years.” Today, the golden years maybe a thing of the past. It is estimated three quarters of Americans facing retirement age have approximately $30,000 in savings. The failure of Americans of retirement age to develop a significant amount of savings may have a long term impact on retirement in United States.
401K Plans Versus Pensions
In the past, Americans of retirement age relied on pensions for monthly income. Extremely few Americans still have pension plans. Pension plans were replaced decades ago by 401 K plans, for most Americans. These 401 K plans presumed Americans would have the foresight and ability to save on a regular basis for their old age.
Teresa Ghilarducci, a Professor of Economics at the New School, in a recent New York Times interview stated individuals were “asked to do what they were not responsible enough to carry out, which was to set up a long term savings plan that anticipated future financial needs.” The savings accumulated by the middle class senior citizens will not be sufficient for the large majority to support their standard of living. It is estimated Americans should save eight times their annual income to maintain their living standards.
Retirement In Poverty
The majority of Americans, when they reach retirement age, will have allocated less than $5.00 a day for food. This will put them at the poverty level. Social Security will not provide a safety net sufficient to meet retired Americans long term needs. Americans should look at Social Security as a base for their savings not as a safety net. It will not be enough to live on! This is especially true with the movement among certain political parties to reduce government benefits to senior Americans.
Job Opportunities For Seniors
When a worker who is more than 55 years of age loses his or her job they find it difficult to find new employment. When they find new employment they are often required to work for reduced wages or on a part time basis. The unemployment rates among Americans 55 and older are higher than those of the general population.
About The Author
Elliot S. Schlissel is in elder care attorney helping senior Americans in dealing with medicaid issues, nursing home issues and drafting wills, trusts and healthcare proxies.
