Many defined benefit plans (ok, the ones that still exist) have an option for a lump-sum payout at the outset of benefits, vs. depending upon the company to cover the pension over one's lifetime. The company's pension annuity payout is probably somewhat better than one could do on their own when purchasing an annuity in the outside market But, you can also use the lump sum for other investments, like IRAs.
I like my company, but do I think their pension is going to be solvent as long as I need it? No.
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