Retirement benefits

New reasons why participants will be opening their statements again.

Four elements analyzed and scored for sponsors.

Three key factors affect determination of a worker’s status.

A new report shows that 401(k) accounts have reached record levels with the overall average balance reaching $80,000 at the end of the first quarter. The Fidelity Investments quarterly analysis explains the current record balances represent 75% growth from the first quarter of 2009 when average accounts dropped to $46,200.

The product is evolving to meet market expectations.

Data point to more efficient way of funding retirement benefits.

Post follows shift in retirement planning responsibilities from institutions to individuals.

Target date funds could be a logical entry point.

Advisers must dig into the details to be able to discuss these complicated products with clients.

There is a movement afoot to put state governments in the business of offering retirement plans to private citizens, which would ultimately eliminate opportunities and siphon business away from financial professionals. Lawmakers in several states have proposed that states create government-run plans for private sector workers. While the details differ from state to state, every proposal this year would require employers who do not currently offer a plan to adopt a state-run plan, either in…

Three reasons why all benefit consultants need to get into the retirement business by The Guardian’s Stephen Davis.

John Ludwig on the hidden plan costs of lost participants in retirement plans due to fee disclosure and Q2 to-do list

Most observers agree that target date funds are easier and safer to use for both retirement plan participants and plan sponsors.

In-Plan Life-Time Income Guarantees provide new opportunities for plan participants

Some see a number of signs contributing to a reawakening of the rust belt.

The economic recession may have sparked a retirement crisis in America, but other significant factors played a role in the derail.

Americans living longer means a corresponding uptick in annuity sales.

A number of misconceptions have prevented these entrepreneurs from doing a better job preparing for retirement.

In order to successfully reach their goals employees must begin embracing the concept of Retirement Readiness with the same commitment as their employers.

Property and casualty insurers are voicing concerns that longstanding tax exemptions for municipal bonds could be disrupted as part of a broader U.S. tax-code changes being considered by Congress.