According to new research released today by Allianz Life, retirement plan sponsors “overwhelmingly” see the value of guaranteed lifetime income options—and are now ready to begin offering these new choices in their plans almost two years post-SECURE Act.
According to the new data, plan sponsors indicated that they believe offering a guaranteed lifetime income option is a wise move that will go over well with plan participants. Of those surveyed, 87% of plan sponsors believe providing an option to get income that is guaranteed for life in a retirement plan will lead to greater satisfaction with the plan itself.
“Data from our research over the past year indicated very strong interest in guaranteed lifetime income options among plan participants. Plan sponsors are clearly listening and ready to meet those demands.”
Matt Gray, Allianz Life
The rationale for that belief is clear as well. Eighty-four percent of plan sponsors believe an investment option in a retirement plan that can provide guaranteed lifetime income once the participant retires is valuable and can increase financial security in retirement according to the study.
“It was not completely surprising to see such strong interest from plan sponsors,” said Matt Gray, head of Employer Markets, Allianz Life. “Data from our research over the past year indicated very strong interest in guaranteed lifetime income options among plan participants. Plan sponsors are clearly listening and ready to meet those demands.”
Minneapolis-based Allianz Life, a relatively new entrant into the retirement plan market, said in announcing the research that plan sponsors also have clear intent to act on the interest. Eighty-five percent of those sponsors that currently do not offer one said they are willing to consider adding an investment option with guaranteed lifetime income in the next two years, with 54% saying they are likely to do so.
Demand from participants
Allianz Life also recently released data that indicates plan sponsors and plan participants are seeing eye-to-eye regarding availability of guaranteed lifetime income options as part of an employer-sponsored plan.
Key findings included:
- 73% of employer-sponsored participants would consider an option that offers guaranteed income for life in their plan if available.
- 64% of employer-sponsored plan participants stated that market volatility caused by COVID-19 has increased their interest in adding an option that offers lifetime income into their plan.
- 77% said providing an option for lifetime income within their plan would demonstrate their employer has a vested interest in their retirement readiness and wellbeing, and 65% said this option would increase their loyalty to their employer.
“Guaranteed lifetime income options have increased in overall popularity and there is increased awareness as to the importance of these products as part of an overall retirement plan,” added Gray. “The SECURE Act has opened the door for millions of Americans to better address the risks that come with retirement and to ensure they are ready for what will likely be a lengthy retirement.”
SEE ALSO:
• Allianz Life Annuity Added to Morningstar Retirement Manager
• Allianz Life Enters Retirement Plan Market
• Job Seekers Swayed by Plans Offering Guaranteed Lifetime Income?
• The Strong Case for Lifetime Income in Retirement Plans
Veteran financial services industry journalist Brian Anderson joined 401(k) Specialist as Managing Editor in January 2019. He has led editorial content for a variety of well-known properties including Insurance Forums, Life Insurance Selling, National Underwriter Life & Health, and Senior Market Advisor. He has always maintained a focus on providing readers with timely, useful information intended to help them build their business.
