Practical ways employers can support their workforce’s financial future.
Many Americans are thinking seriously about their financial future—and with good reason. The economy and rising cost of living have left people feeling uncertain about what lies ahead.
Recent research from the 2025 Transamerica Retirement Survey1 offers a clearer picture of what today’s workforce is facing:
- Half of workers report that they haven’t saved enough to retire.
- 73% of workers say they are confident they’ll be able to retire comfortably—but only 24% feel very confident.
- 22% plan to retire later than expected.
- The median household retirement savings is just $93,000.
These numbers show that while many workers are thinking about retirement, most still need help getting—and staying—on track.
An opportunity for employers
This shift in mindset creates a meaningful opportunity for employers. A strong retirement education program can meet employees where they are. Programs that offer accessible tools and supportive guidance can help build financial confidence.
Covering topics such as financial wellness, healthcare, and retirement planning makes these programs more relevant and helpful to your team. With relevant resources, employees can move from uncertainty to action—one step at a time.
Supporting early preparation
Starting early can make a big difference when it comes to retirement. Many employers are helping by offering education, planning tools, and easy ways to start saving.
Employees often have a lot on their plates: paying bills, managing debt, and covering everyday costs can take priority. But with the right support, many are finding ways to balance short-term needs with long-term goals. Features like auto-enrollment and auto-escalation can make it even easier to get started.
Planning for retirement involves important decisions. People want to know how much to save, when to claim Social Security, and how to turn savings into income. That can feel like a lot, but with simple resources and helpful guidance, it’s easier to confidently take the next step.
Retirement readiness education
Employees need clear, helpful retirement education and easy-to-use planning tools. The following best practices can make your education program more effective:
- Offer targeted and ongoing education. People want information that helps solve real problems. Since employees face different challenges, targeted messages for different groups can work well. It's also helpful to offer education often, so that new employees or those with changing needs can stay informed.
- Use adult learning principles. Adults want to know why something matters before they engage. They are more likely to learn when the content is useful and focused on solutions.
- Share information in different ways. Everyone learns a little differently. Education can be shared in short messages like emails, posters, or videos. It can also be offered through longer formats like webinars, one-on-one sessions, or recorded presentations.
- Keep it simple. Use straight-forward language and avoid jargon. The easier the message is to follow, the more likely employees are to use the information.
- Make it relevant. Tailor your education program to fit your company. Include details about your plan, plus helpful topics like investing, risk and reward, asset allocation, and the value of long-term planning.
- Include ways to interact. People remember more when they use what they’ve learned. Add activities or short breaks that let employees think through the material and apply it.
A path forward
Retirement planning is a journey. Employees need guidance, support, and tools they can trust along the way. When employers offer thoughtful education programs—built around real-life needs and clear communication—they help remove uncertainty and encourage action.
By making retirement readiness a priority, you’re not just helping your employees plan for their future; you’re also creating a stronger, more confident workforce today.
1Collinson, Catherine, et al. “Retirement in the USA: The Outlook of the Workforce.” Transamerica Institute. Mar. 2025.
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