Document Type
Working Paper
Date of this Version
9-1-2012
Abstract
Defined contribution (DC) pension plans have helped many individuals accumulate assets for retirement. However, DC plans do not typically offer retirement income options. We first consider the question of whether DC plans offer retirement income advantages compared to retail options. We find that DC plans advantages include costs, access and efficacy. However, successfully extending DC plans into the income phase of retirement requires recognizing the importance of choice. Companies choose what features to offer in their 401(k) plan, and individuals choose whether to avail themselves of available options. The remainder of the paper explores some of the key aspects of company and individual preferences that must be recognized if successful policies and income options are to be developed for DC plans and participants.
Working Paper Number
WP2012-10
Copyright/Permission Statement
All findings, interpretations, and conclusions of this paper represent the views of the author and not those of the Wharton School or the Pension Research Council. © 2012 Pension Research Council of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. All rights reserved.
Date Posted: 28 June 2019
Comments
The published version of this Working Paper may be found in the 2013 publication: The Market for Retirement Financial Advice.