6. 401(k) retirement plans. There are indications that most Americans underestimate the financial resources necessary to maintain the lifestyle they expect to enjoy in retirement, yet many employees fail to enroll in 401(k) plans, even when employers match their contributions. Hewitt Associates found that only 31 percent of eligible workers ages 18 to 25 have caught 401(k) fever and are taking advantage of employer matches, while 63 percent of those 26 to 41 years old are enrolled, and 72 percent of Boomers. More employers are using “automatic enrollment” with new hires in an effort to help employees get started saving for retirement. Clearly, more employee education is needed, particularly among younger workers who say that they can’t afford to put money into a 401(k) plan. They need to be shown that the program is tax-advantaged, so their net take-home pay may not be affected. An employer’s match could be an additional incentive.