Americans May Have to Rely More on Personal Savings in Retirement!

Americans are acknowledging they need to save more for their own retirement, and rely less on income sources, such as social security and pensions, that worked for past generations. They expect IRAs to be a critical source of income during those golden years. Yet, many are failing to take action to ensure that they have a well-funded retirement. Recent studies found that only 46 percent of Americans are utilizing an IRA as part of their retirement savings strategy, and that the typical American household is on track to replace only 58 percent of their income in retirement. Given that retiree medical costs alone are estimated to exceed over $200,000 for the average 65 year old couple retiring today, it’s easy to understand why establishing and contributing generously towards a tax-advantaged IRA every year can make a big difference in helping more people be better prepared for their retirement years. John Ragnoni, senior vice president of Fidelity Personal Investments, says that having alternative retirement savings accounts, like IRAs, and plans to fund our futures has become essential. With the April 17, 2007 tax filing deadline just behind us, it comes with another important deadline the deadline for making 2006 IRA contributions. This year, for the first time, the IRS is allowing investors to directly deposit 2006 refunds into up to three accounts including an IRA.