Defined Contribution

The South has a large number of some of the nation's worst 401(k)s.

The average balance of plan participants 401(k)s at the end of 2014 hit a record $91,300, according to Fidelity Investments.

Private defined contribution assets will likely reach that level within three years, according to estimates from Cerulli Associates.

The White House gave up on its plan to end the 529 tax break Tuesday, six days before it was to be included in the presidents Feb. 2 budget proposal.

Most employers favor the idea of keeping ex-workers' assets in their plans. They're just not sure how to go about it without the fiduciary liability.

If approved by Congress, the new system would incorporate a 401(k)-type investment account as a significant portion of a service members retirement benefit.