Alaska Public Worker Shortage Fuels Renewed Interest in Pension Plan | Alaska Journal of Commerce

Defined benefit pension plans can be a valuable tool in recruiting and retaining public employees like teachers and public safety officers. Recognizing that, lawmakers in Alaska this year are continuing their efforts to re-establish a pension plan similar to the one the state closed in 2006. They hope to stop a worsening trend of public workers leaving Alaska for jobs in other states that offer better benefits.

401(k) and IRA Balances Plunged Over 20% in 2022 | Investopedia

2022 was a tough year in the markets, and workers’ retirement accounts were not immune. According to data from Fidelity, the average 401(k) balance was down more than 20 percent for the year, while the average IRA balance dropped by about 23 percent. The good news is that long-term, account balances are still showing good growth, with both 401(k) and IRAs up more than 30 percent over the past decade.

Americans Fairly Satisfied With Social Security System | Gallup

Recent polling finds that Americans are split on their feelings about Social Security and Medicare. Forty-five percent of Americans told Gallup they’re satisfied with the programs and 45 percent said they’re dissatisfied. The survey found the groups that are most likely to utilize Social Security and Medicare — those who are older and who make less money — are also the most likely to be satisfied with them.

Key Facts About Life-Plan Communities | Next Avenue

If you’re planning what you want your later years to look like, or you’re helping a relative find long-term care, you may consider a continuing care retirement community, or life-plan community. These types of communities provide a wide variety of care and support services as you age, from independent living to memory care. Here are some factors to consider when making a decision.

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