A recent survey found 57 percent of American workers have less than $25,000 in savings and investments, including the value of 401(k) plans and excluding the value of their homes. Twenty-eight percent of workers have less than $1,000 saved.

Another survey found 36 percent of Americans contribute nothing to their savings. And, 87 percent say they’re not confident about having enough money for a comfortable retirement.

Publix can help you gain confidence in your retirement when you participate in our 401(k) SMART Plan.

The earlier you start saving, the more money you can save for retirement. Plus, the money earned on your account balance is reinvested to earn even more money. If you participate in the SMART plan, you also may be eligible to receive a Publix matching contribution.

Each year, review your progress toward your retirement goals by evaluating your individual savings and your account balances in the PROFIT and 401(k) SMART Plans. A small increase in your SMART plan contribution elections often can make a big difference over the long run to your retirement savings.

Have a question about retirement?

Contact Publix’s retirement department at (863) 688-7407, ext. 52327, or toll-free 1-800-741-4332 (outside of Lakeland). While you’re on www.publix.org, you also can visit  Financial Resources > 401(k) SMART Plan, or contact the SMART plan’s Information Line at 1-888-401k-PLN (1-888-401-5756).

Sources: Employee Benefit Research Institute’s 2013 Retirement Confidence Survey, http://www.moneynews.com/

If you’re at least 18 years of age and have been with Publix for at least six months in a full- or part-time position, you’re eligible to take advantage of the 401(k) SMART Plan. Review the information in your SMART plan enrollment packet, enroll in the plan and start saving as soon as possible.