More Americans are reaching retirement age than ever before, with an average of 11,200 Americans turning 65 each day in 2024. This increase has led to a surge in new financial products promising lifetime paychecks, but not all of these products are well understood or thoroughly researched. Some options are difficult to reverse, and with the newness of these plans, it is important for individuals to carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks before committing to them.
Defined benefit pensions, where the burden of saving and investing falls on the employer rather than the employee, are becoming less common, with 401(k) plans taking their place. These plans require individuals to save and invest on their own, leaving many retirees heavily reliant on Social Security benefits that may not be sufficient. Without adequate savings, retirees may struggle to make ends meet in retirement, putting additional strain on Social Security payments that may not be substantial.
A new law known as Secure Act 2.0 now allows companies to offer lifetime annuity products in 401(k) plans, providing employees with access to investments that promise a guaranteed paycheck for life. Companies like BlackRock and Nationwide are offering new target-date funds with annuity options, giving retirees the opportunity to receive annuity payments based on a percentage of their retirement savings balance. These options provide a sense of financial security and may appeal to retirees looking for a guarantee that they won’t run out of money.
While these new offerings may provide some peace of mind, there are potential downsides to consider. Monthly payments from annuities may be smaller if individuals choose to pass on benefits to a spouse after they pass away, and annuities typically do not allow payments to pass on to children without incurring additional costs. Additionally, there is the issue of inflation, as annuities may not offer inflation-adjusted payments, causing the value of the guaranteed paycheck to decline over time.
Managing retirement savings through these new products comes with associated fees, and labor economist Teresa Ghilarducci advises retirees to consider managing their savings on their own when possible to avoid paying unnecessary fees. It is crucial for individuals to carefully evaluate these products before committing to ensure that they align with their financial goals and needs in retirement. Financial decisions made during retirement can have long-term implications, so it is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option before making a decision.
For retirees like Jennifer Messina, who is relying on a pension and annuity for retirement income, downsizing may still be necessary to make ends meet. Despite the benefits of these financial products, the cost of living in certain areas may necessitate a change in lifestyle to maintain financial stability. Whether choosing to relocate to a more affordable area or adjusting spending habits, retirees must carefully consider their financial situation and make decisions that align with their long-term goals for retirement.
