[dragontamer]

> The 2 or 3 million? I think I read recently that less than 10% have a million, 2 or 3 million is 1% territory. And if someone does save that and dies early, how is that 'wasted' if it goes to support their family?

In particular, it could have gone back to their family sooner. IE: Leaving money in your 401k plan means NOT paying for your kid's college tuition with that money (or their house, or their first car, or their wedding)

Sure, maybe the kid will get a giant payout when they're 30 or 40 years old. But by then, their lives are probably established and they don't really need the windfall. And they only get that windfall if you die.

> Annuities can 100% bridge the gap.

Annuities have the same failure mode as pension plans: if they fail, then no one gets the money they were promised. When comparing 401k plans vs Pension Plans, its definitely a factor to consider.