Though they seem to be somewhat more likely to review information they receive in paper format, a new survey finds that the vast majority of Americans would be fine with getting retirement disclosures electronically.
Six in ten (60%) report reading this general information in paper format selectively or in its entirety, compared with about half (48%) who get this information online, according to a study sponsored by the SPARK Institute. Furthermore, more than half (54%) of those receiving information by paper only say that they would be less likely to read it if it came online. However, more than eight in ten (84%) agree that it is okay for the employer to provide retirement plan information electronically — if they can opt for paper at any time.
Most participants get their official statements by mail today — 49% get it this way only, compared with 37% who receive both mail and online and 14% who receive statements only online. However, the report notes that the number getting statements on paper only is down from 2012, when an AARP study found 62% getting paper only.
Other findings include:
A total of 1,000 randomly selected plan participants nationwide were administered a 10-minute telephone survey. Data collection was done by Greenwald & Associates and its affiliate National Research.
