Optimal Default Retirement Saving Policies: Theory and Evidence from OregonSaves
67 Pages Posted: 17 Feb 2020 Last revised: 21 Apr 2021
Date Written: April 16, 2021
Abstract
I theoretically analyze and empirically identify the optimal default savings rate in automatic enrollment retirement saving plans. I derive a formula for the optimal default as a function of sufficient statistics that can be empirically identified. I estimate individual adherence to the default using exogenous increases in the default rate of OregonSaves, the first state-sponsored auto-enrollment plan in the U.S. I also use survey data to infer the degree of undersaving if workers actively switch to a non-default rate. Combining estimates from administrative and survey data with the optimal default formula, I find the optimal default is 7% of income.
Keywords: OregonSaves, state-sponsored retirement plans, auto-enrollment retirement plans, default contribution rate
JEL Classification: D14, D60, D91, G51, H00
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation