---
title: "Across My Desk: 401(k) vs. Defined Benefit Plans"
url: https://fundfreebies.com/other/091806
description: "A recent poll found that most working Americans like 401(k) plans better than the do defined benefit plans. Poll researchers say that that's a…"
published: 2006-09-18
updated: 2006-09-18
---

# Across My Desk: 401(k) vs. Defined Benefit Plans

Published 2006-09-18

By Dian Vujovich · September 18, 2006

A recent poll found that most working Americans like 401(k) plans better than the do defined benefit plans. Poll researchers say that that's a sign people want to take more responsibility for managing their money.

Here's more from that PLANSPONSOR.com poll:

Divided among income levels, respondents with annual income of $75,000 or higher were much more likely to support tax breaks (37%) than those making less than $35,000 annually (14%). However, those that fell into the lower income brackets favored hiking Social Security payments.

18-34-year-olds expect to be more reliant on personal savings upon retirement (49%), compared to 32% of those 35-44, 24% of 45-54-year-olds, and 27% of those 55 and older.

79% of respondents would prefer an employer-sponsored DC (defined contribution) plan, compared to 21% who preferred a DB (defined benefit) plan.

19% of those 18-34 expect to rely on Social Security money, compared to 35% of those 55 and older.

And, the poll revealed that 88% think that the government should make sure people prepare --- and are ready ---for retirement.

Originally published September 18, 2006 in Dian’s Fund Freebies.