Workers’ Savings Picture Improves
However, fewer workers have had to reduce their contributions to retirement plans or personal savings—17% in 2013, compared to 20% in 2012, according to CareerBuilder, which polled 2,999 employees in May and June.
One-quarter (25%) of workers do not set aside anything for savings each month. But, that is an improvement from 27% who said so last year. Among those who do save, 31% save more than $250, and 10% save more than $1,000 per month.
The survey also found 36% of workers report they always or usually live paycheck to paycheck—a recession-era low down from its peak of 46% in 2008. In 2012, 40 percent of workers reported they always or usually live paycheck to paycheck.
“The financial situation for many households remains a struggle, but year-after-year fewer workers report living paycheck to paycheck,” said Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources at CareerBuilder. “More workers are saving their earnings on a monthly basis than last year, and 70% feel they are more fiscally responsible post-recession.”
The survey also revealed several expenses some workers say they will not give up regardless of financial concerns:
- Internet connection: 55%;
- Driving: 40%;
- Pet: 36%;
- Smartphone: 29%;
- Cable: 24%;
- Travel: 10%; and
- Going out to eat: 9%.