pension plan

WASHINGTON D.C. -- The continuing collapse of traditional pension plans has undermined the confidence Americans once had that they could retire comfortably, and the push toward such alternatives as 401 plans has yet to meet expectations.

If you have a company-sponsored pension plan, you might be alarmed at some recent news: pension funding levels are at their lowest since World War II .

The Associated Press is seeking to freeze the pension plans of employees who are still guaranteed a monthly benefit when they retire.

J.C. Penney reported a 78 percent drop in its third-quarter earnings because of a big expense for its pension plan.

Armored car company Brink's Co. said Thursday it contributed $150 million to its underfunded U.S. pension plan.

Sears Holdings Corp. said it lost money in its second quarter — missing expectations — as it was dragged down by lower sales, store closings, and severance and pension plan costs.

Sears Holdings says it lost money in its second quarter, dragged down by store closings, severance and pension plan costs and lower sales.

General Motors offered tens of thousands of workers early retirement in its rush to downsize, raising questions about the long-term strength of its pension plan.