Retirement Savers Seek 'Easy Button' for Planning

J.P. Morgan Asset Management released its 2026 Defined Contribution (DC) Plan Participant Survey, indicating a strong desire among retirement plan participants for simplified planning and increased employer guidance. The biennial survey highlights that a significant portion of participants, particularly younger workers, expect employers to offer more support in navigating retirement savings and financial planning amidst economic uncertainty. Alyson Frost, head of retirement insights at J.P. Morgan Asset Management, emphasized the survey's value in capturing direct participant feedback across all retirement journey stages, noting that many still lack confidence in making independent decisions and welcome plan support in converting savings into retirement income.

This year's survey notably included retired defined contribution plan participants for the first time, seeking insights into their transition to retirement and retrospective advice. Findings revealed a disconnect between participants' expectations and reality regarding retirement transitions; 44% anticipate a gradual retirement by reducing work hours, whereas only 12% of actual retirees reported this experience. Confidence in Social Security covering routine retirement expenses is low, with only 35% of participants believing it will suffice, and this confidence diminishes as retirement nears.

The survey also underscored generational differences in perceived employer responsibility for retirement savings. A substantial 86% of Gen Z respondents believe employers bear at least some responsibility, contrasting with 61% of baby boomers. This generational divide reflects a broader trend of younger workers seeking more proactive employer involvement in their financial futures.

Overall, the research points to a growing demand for user-friendly retirement planning tools and enhanced employer participation. A striking 73% of participants expressed a wish to "push an easy button" to fully delegate their retirement planning and investment decisions, a figure that has increased since previous surveys. This sentiment underscores the perceived complexity of retirement planning and the appeal of streamlined, managed solutions.