Savers Report Mixed Feelings with Retirement Confidence
In the face of multiple priorities, economic uncertainty and new technologies, more than half of Americans in a recent survey are confident they will be able to retire on time, while the other half remain skeptical.
A new Thrivent survey released today shows that 58% of non-retirees feel confident they’ll have enough savings to see them through to retirement on schedule, while 47% aren’t confident they’ll be able to retire fully. While many struggle with headwinds through inflation and other responsibilities, others point to a lack of inheritance for eroding financial confidence.
As a result, 36% of respondents expect to continue earning income after retirement to support their lifestyle.
The Thrivent Retirement Expectations Survey 2026, which surveyed more than 2,000 Americans, also explored worker attitudes toward artificial intelligence (AI) technology and its impact on retirement planning.
Among non-retirees, 63% of Gen Z and 59% of Millennials are more likely than Gen X and Baby Boomers, at 49% each, to expect a negative impact on their retirement from job cuts due to AI. At the same time, 29% of retirees say changes at work caused by artificial intelligence will negatively affect their retirement, up from 20% in 2025.
“The future has always brought uncertainty, but many Americans today are asking more questions about work, the economy and retirement than they were a few years ago,” said Jason Rogoff, financial advisor at Thrivent.
Retirement plan advisors need to make sure they are putting together a financial plan that can adapt as savers’ careers change and they move to different economies and jobs, according to Thrivent. They should also help participants set realistic goals, such as setting smaller milestones to easily track progress, and encourage early savings.
“The good news is that retirement planning doesn’t have to have all the answers,” added Rogoff. “It requires a plan that can adapt to changing circumstances. Regularly reviewing your goals and making adjustments along the way can help you stay on track, no matter what the future holds.”
