Across My Desk: Social Security

According to a recent poll, younger people don't expect much from Social Security.

PLANSPONSOR.com ran this story on August 21, about a recent Wall Street Journal poll. Here's some of what was revealed:

• 88% of those polled said that the government should take the reins in making sure people are ready for retirement.

• 25% said Uncle Sam ought to increase tax breaks for people putting money into personal savings accounts.

• 22% said the government should increase Social Security payments.

• 15% thought the government ought to put pressure on employers to match 401(k) contributions.

• 15% said forcing employers to funnel more money into pension plans was a good idea.

• 49 % of 18-34-year-olds expect to be more reliant on personal savings upon retirement, compared to 32% of those 35-44, 24% of 45-54-year-olds, and 27% of those 55 and older.

• 19% of those 18-34 expect to rely on Social Security money in their retirement compared to 35% of those 55 and older.

I say forget the polls and save, save then save some more. Living life is very expensive at every age and every stage.