As we navigate an evolving economic landscape and a multigenerational workforce with shifting priorities, understanding how employees view retirement is more critical than ever. The Retirement in the USA: Workforce Outlook Survey Report 2025, published by the Transamerica Institute, offers a comprehensive snapshot of American workers’ retirement expectations, concerns, and preparedness.
The findings reveal a growing disconnect between retirement aspirations and financial realities. Many workers plan to delay or avoid retirement entirely but lack the resources or confidence to make that a sustainable option. From generational disparities to rising financial stress, the data underscores the urgent need for employers to rethink their retirement strategies and financial wellness offerings.
In this post, we explore highlights from the report and what they could mean for your organization and your employees.
A Workforce That Wants to Work Longer: Are they prepared?
One of the most striking findings from the 2025 report is that 40% of workers expect to retire after age 70, or not at all. This aligns with a growing trend of employees planning to extend their careers for financial reasons, personal fulfillment, or both.
Yet, a deeper look reveals a disconnect: only 27% feel “very confident” about their ability to fully retire with a comfortable lifestyle. Despite intentions to keep working, many workers aren’t financially prepared if circumstances such as health issues or caregiving responsibilities force an earlier exit from the workforce.
Key Takeaway: Proactive retirement planning is vital at all stages of life and career. Employers who support long-term financial wellness can help bridge the gap between intention and reality.
Generational Differences in Retirement Preparedness
The report also highlights key generational differences in how Americans approach retirement:
Baby Boomers are nearing retirement age, but only 33% are confident they’ll be able to retire comfortably.
Gen Xers, now in their prime earning years, are feeling the squeeze of multiple financial obligations—saving for retirement, paying for children’s education, and possibly supporting aging parents.
Millennials and Gen Z express optimism, yet many lack access to employer-sponsored retirement plans or don’t contribute enough to build long-term security.
Key Takeaway: Tailoring benefits communications and financial education to these generational nuances can help employers boost participation, engagement, and long-term outcomes.
The Role of Employers Is More Crucial Than Ever
Workers overwhelmingly see employers as vital partners in their retirement journey. The report found that:
84% of workers value having a workplace retirement savings plan.
Employees with access to plans such as a 401(k) or similar are significantly more likely to be saving—and to be confident in their future.
Workers want help navigating retirement: from plan design to financial wellness education to support for phased retirement options.
Key Takeaway: Employers have an opportunity to differentiate themselves in a competitive labor market by offering thoughtful, well-communicated retirement benefits.
Financial Wellness: A Growing Priority
Beyond retirement, the survey points to a growing desire for holistic financial wellness programs. Nearly 70% of workers say financial stress impacts their health, productivity, or both. Respondents expressed interest in employer-provided education on budgeting, debt management, and long-term savings strategies.
In today’s economic climate, benefits that address financial well-being are no longer optional: they are strategic tools for engagement, retention, and workforce resilience.
Time for a Fresh Look at Your Retirement Strategy?
The 2025 Workforce Outlook Survey is a powerful reminder that retirement is evolving—and so are the needs of America’s workers. For employers, the stakes are high: a well-designed, future-focused retirement plan isn’t just good for your team—it’s good for your business.
At Robin Weingast & Associates, we specialize in designing customized retirement solutions that meet the diverse needs of today’s workforce. From plan design to compliance to employee education, we’re here to help you turn insight into impact.
Contact us today to discuss what the 2025 report findings mean for your retirement plan—and how we can help you build a strategy that works for your people and your goals.
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