Series: The New Future Of Life After Work
Fixing Social Security: A Solvable Problem()
June 5, 2009 Forecasters say in about seven years, Social Security will start paying out more in benefits to retirees than it's collecting in taxes from workers. President Obama has said the problem is straightforward — and his preferred solution is to extend Social Security taxes to higher incomes.
Rural Layoffs: Losing A Grip On Retirement()
June 4, 2009 As manufacturing plants leave rural towns, many workers close to retirement are left with diminished retirement savings and few options for new work. Randy Badman, 60, of DeWitt, Neb., was laid off three times in four years — and isn't sure how he'll fund his eventual retirement.
Buying The Farm: A Good Bet For Rural Retirees()
June 3, 2009 People who have invested in Midwest farmland in this recession, instead of 401(k)s, may have made a wise choice, according to one economist. Dan and Lorna Wilson of Paullina, Iowa, are counting on their 640 acres to fund their retirement.
As Slump Drags On, Retirement Dreams Slip Away()
June 3, 2009 Many people look forward to retirement with hopes of spending more time with their families and on their hobbies. But as the stock market and the job market have headed south, some people near retirement age are having to push that date off a bit.
For Some, Work Seems Never-Ending()
June 2, 2009 More Americans over age 65 are working than ever before. Even for those who are well-off, retirement is becoming a luxury many feel they can no longer afford. Robert Brindley, of Davies, Fla., says he miscalculated when it came to retirement — and now he's looking for a new job.
401(k)'s Creator Weighs Retirement Plan's Future()
June 1, 2009 Ted Benna, employee-benefit consultant and president of the 401(k) Association, is credited with inventing the 401(k) in the late 1970s. He says the plan was envisioned as a supplement for companies that had their own benefit plans.
Retirement Increasingly Elusive In Today's Economy()
May 21, 2009 The recession has blown up retirement plans around the country. Older working Americans — those between 55 and 64 — are seeing their nest eggs wither at exactly the moment they can least afford that to happen. As a result many are looking to return to the work force.
Is The 401(k) A Good Deal For America's Workers?()
June 1, 2009 More Americans are counting on the stock market to provide for them in their golden years. But the median value of 401(k) plans is down, and fewer companies are providing matches. Some experts think the system can be reformed.
Retirement: Tell Us What You Want To Know()
May 21, 2009 The first generation of 401(k) users is preparing to retire, and the stock market's fall has meant that many accounts are insufficient to support basic retirement. We had an expert respond to some of your questions during the week of June 1.
