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It’s been long said that Americans aren’t saving enough for retirement – and now some disturbing numbers show exactly how bad it’s gotten. Using tax data, which should be more reliable than surveys, U.S. Census Bureau researchers conclude that only about a third of workers are saving in a 401(k) or similar tax-deferred retirement plan.

Millions aren’t saving on the job because they either don’t have access to a workplace retirement plan - only 14% of employers offer plans - or they do but aren’t putting money in it. Earlier survey surveys suggested that more than 40% of private-sector employers sponsored a retirement plan. In addition, many employees just can’t spare the cash. New analysis shows there are other reasons, as well.

While Gideon and Mitchell estimate 79% of Americans work at places that sponsor a 401(k)-style plan (over 20% higher than previous estimates), just 41% of workers at those employers are making contributions to such a plan (over 20% lower than previous estimates).

Not surprisingly, the Census data suggest well-paid workers find it easier to save than the lowest-paid. But income isn’t the only factor. Eligibility is a major issue for 2 employee groups:

• Part-time workers.
• People who change jobs frequently, in that companies often require employees to work for a certain amount of time before they can sign up for a 401(k).

Another problem is that many workers simply don’t know their company 401(k) exists. Workers also might never get around to filling out the paperwork, or could be intimidated and confused by the need to make investment decisions. Companies can help solve all those problems by automatically signing up eligible workers, and requiring them to opt out if they don’t want to participate. Doing so has been proven to boost enrollment, but momentum has now stalled for automatic 401(k) features.

Lawmakers have proposed a variety of ways to get more people to save. Several states are experimenting with strategies to get every worker signed up for a retirement account. But they face serious pushback from the Republican-controlled Congress and the financial industry.