43% Not Confident in Current Retirement Plans

Americans are not very confident at all that they will be able to retire, a Country Financial survey of 3,000 Americans finds.

Only 28% think it is possible for a middle-income family to save for a secure retirement, down from 30% in 2010 and 37% in 2007.

Forty-three percent have little faith in their current retirement savings plans, and the same number have decreased the amount that they are saving. Nonetheless, 50% do not expect to delay retirement, which could be unrealistic if they are not well-prepared for their golden years.

“It’s understandable people are still uneasy about retirement, given the length of economic unrest,” said Keith Brannan, vice president of financial security planning at Country Financial. “But regardless of your income bracket, it’s important to continue setting aside money for the future. Building your retirement nest egg starts with creating a tangible financial plan based on your own unique situation and plans for your golden years. Having a target to save for is an important motivator for any long-term financial goal.”

Although only 31% have sought professional advice for their retirement, among those that did get help, 92% said they were then sure of how much money they will need in retirement, and 74% became confident in their retirement savings plan.

“The amount of money needed for retirement and what savings plans to use are different for everyone,” Brannan said. “Oftentimes, people have the misconception that you need a lot of money in order to get advice from a professional. However, no matter your income or current financial situation, professional advice can help you map out how to get from where you are now to where you want to be in the future.”

Sixty-four percent think they will need less than $1 million for retirement, 19% think they will need $1 million or more, and 18% are unsure. 

 

 

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