Baby boomers only slightly ahead of millennials when it comes to retirement planning

CHICAGO, Jan. 22, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Going into 2020, more than half (59%) of millennials haven't considered their options for retirement. However, this trend is not limited to younger Americans. According to a survey from the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA), one in three baby boomers — Americans who are nearing or starting retirement — hasn't done any financial planning in the last two years.

The survey — which assessed the financial health of Americans — found that stress around finances transcends generational differences. In fact, 74% of respondents said they want a financial planning do-over.

"As we move into a new decade, consumers continue to be pessimistic about their retirement options, with almost half of all respondents lacking confidence in Social Security," says Geoffrey Brown, NAPFA CEO. "More than one-third of millennials and Gen Xers don't think they'll ever be able to retire. While these results are troubling, you can gain a greater sense of control and certainty over your financial future by having a financial plan that's tailored to your life stage."

The different generations are consistent in their goals regarding money, which include planning for retirement (61%), achieving greater savings (52%), and paying off debts (50%). Yet, their priorities for planning differ by age and proximity to retirement. For example, millennials put a higher emphasis on increased savings (59%), with one in three worried they will need to support their parents financially. Meanwhile, planning for retirement is top of mind for 69% of baby boomers. 

"Luckily, there are strategies each generation can use to start 2020 off on the right foot," explains Brown.

Tips from NAPFA Advisors:

• Applicable to all generations: Write down what you value most in life and make a list itemizing your spending for the past few months. Ensure your spending is in alignment with both your values and your earnings. Also, be sure to reduce financial clutter by canceling subscriptions you aren't using and negotiating for lower rates on cable TV, Wi-Fi and car insurance.
• Millennials: Ensure you are paid your worth — consult industry salary surveys and stay objective when negotiating by focusing on your accomplishments and your future at your workplace. Also, take advantage of your employer's 401(k) match, if applicable, but don't stop there. It is better to start saving now, even if it is only a small amount. Try building your budget around 90% of your income so you can put the remaining 10% in savings.
• Gen X: Try to max out your 401(k) contributions. For 2020, you can contribute up to $19,500 of pre-tax money to your 401(k). If you're 50 or older, you can contribute an additional $6,000 pre-tax.
• Baby boomers: Be honest with yourself about how you will spend your time in retirement and how this may impact your savings. Additionally, prioritize paying back any loans you have against your 401(k). If you retire while still owing money, you'll have a very short window to repay it; otherwise, money you borrowed will be treated as taxable income in the year you retire.

At any point in your financial journey, working with a Fee-Only financial planner can help you understand your current financial situation and help you feel prepared for retirement. Visit the NAPFA website for a search tool to find financial planners in your area, as well as for a variety of consumer resources, including more tips and details on how to choose a financial advisor. Additional survey findings are available here.

About NAPFA
Since 1983, the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors has provided Fee‐Only financial planners across the country with some of the highest standards possible for professional competency, comprehensive financial planning, and Fee‐Only compensation. With more than 3,800 members across the country, NAPFA is the leading professional association in the United States dedicated to the advancement of Fee‐Only financial planning. Learn more at www.napfa.org.

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SOURCE NAPFA