Highlights the issue of states dipping into public employee pension funds and the long-term problems this may generate. (MLF)

Recent studies of retirement have recognized the importance of pension plans and social security on the retirement decisions. A pension system that is neutral with respect to the timing of benefits encourages or discourages the acceptance of these benefits and subsequent job separation at any particular age only to the extent that any asset…

Social security systems in many countries have reached or may soon reach a state of crisis in terms of funding old age pension and other benefits. A reassessment of the appropriate role of public pension provision in the total income flow available to retirees is needed. (JOW)

Used historical evidence to analyze how private sector benefits worked in the past in light of the debate surrounding the Social Security benefits and the federal deficit. Among conclusions reached are that the private sector failed to provide adequate protection for older citizens, and that benefits were inequitably distributed on basis of gender…

Eligibility for an IRA has been severely changed by the Tax Reform Act of 1986. In 1987 educators who have a retirement plan administered by their employer will face new eligibility rules. For self-employment income, a Keogh plan is an excellent way to shelter income and provide retirement income. (MLW)

Fefferman argues that mandatory Social Security coverage for teachers and other government employees assures their own pension protection and equalizes their contributions with their potential Social Security benefits. Brundige feels that teachers already have superior retirement plans and should not be forced to bail out the ailing Social…

The social security commissioner argues that the system's varied protection--against loss of earnings due to death, disability, and even inflation--makes it a better deal than most private plans. (Author/IRT)

The quest for economic security for older women calls for a balance between government standards and public programs. Four components of an action agenda to improve the quality of life for older women are education, legislation, litigation, and negotiation. (SK)

Examines how the 1978 Amendments to the Age Discrimination in Employment Act will affect the future labor force. Discusses how retirement age policies hurt older workers, changes that are expected to occur, how pension benefits affect the older work force, and why a linked employment/retirement policy is urged. (Editor/CT)

Watch for a reversal of the early-retirement trend as America's labor pool shrinks and life expectancy rates climb. (Author)

Early retirement programs do not necessarily result in the greatest savings. To ensure a successful program, employers must consider all factors that influence an employee's decision to participate. (JOW)

Most persons seem to respond to economic incentives in choosing when to retire. While changes in the social security system are likely to have only small effects on retirement behavior, larger impacts could ensue from altering incentives implicit in private pension plans. Important area for future research is transition process that follows end of…

Companies offering 401(k) plans should provide education so that employees are able to make informed investment decisions. Companies that do not may be held liable. They must also be careful to provide information, not financial advice. (SK)

Future developments in the areas of employer policies and retirement age choice of employees are uncertain because of the inability to predict public policy regarding retirement benefit programs. (JOW)

A policy statement on retirement and insurance plans formulated by the American Association of University Professors and the Association of American Colleges is presented. Retirement plans are seen to attract individuals, permit them to devote their energies to the profession, and to provide for an orderly retirement. (MLW)