Saving for retirement is a top priority for Americans. More so for women, 83% compared to 77% for men, according to LIMRA research. Other financial goals for women included starting an emergency fund, eliminating debt and maintaining good credit.
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While retirement is more important to women, just 20% are confident in their understanding of finances, LIMRA found, and women are less likely than men to have done basic retirement planning activities.
At least one reason why stands out women earn less money. Last year, women earned about 83% of what men did, based on
Lower salary over a working career, combined with breaks in employment to care for children and other family members affects retirement savings and results in lower Social Security income, according to LIMRA. The fact that women usually live longer than men only adds to the challenges women confront when planning for retirement and mitigating their longevity risk.
Thats why women are turning to advisers for help. Six in 10 said professional advice is needed to save for retirement, according to LIMRA, and 51% of women said that need has increased over the past few years, compared to 45% of men.
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While plenty of challenges lie ahead, recognition of the problem is the first step to solving it, LIMRA says. Women who begin taking action to create a savings plan can make a difference in their contributions to their financial future.
