Description: The purpose of this paper is to examine the underlying issues of replacement rates for the benefit of retirement security stakeholders, particularly public policy makers, pension plan sponsors, advisors, financial product providers, and individuals planning for retirement. Additionally, guidance is provided on building replacement rate measures. From the Society of Actuaries - 2011.

Description: Replacement rates have historically been a tool to determine the adequacy of retirement income to maintain an individual’s standard of living. Numerous conceptual and methodological issues lie, however, beneath its simple exterior. The purpose of this paper is to examine these underlying issues for the benefit of retirement security stakeholders, pension plan sponsors, advisors, financial product providers, and individuals planning for retirement.