National Saving and Social Security Reform

Introduction

Saving is a critical component of both retirement security for individuals and the long-term growth of the nation’s economy. Current trends in Social Security, 401(k) plans, and personal saving suggest that individuals will need to save more to ensure that they can enjoy a comfortable retirement. The federal government can also contribute to the nation’s saving by reducing or eliminating its budget deficit. Increased saving by either individuals or the government, of course, means less consumption today. But, by providing more money for investment, additional saving boosts productivity and long-term economic growth…