One in Four Americans Can't Name Their Retirement Provider as Dormant Accounts Surge

PensionBee survey finds lack of awareness coincides with sharp rise in "forgotten" 401(k) and 403(b) accounts

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A new study by PensionBee reveals that 25% of U.S. adults cannot confidently name the institution that manages their retirement, as more than 30% of workplace accounts are now dormant - a significant jump from 21% in 2012. The survey also found that 55% of Americans have never consolidated old retirement accounts, leaving savings scattered across multiple providers.

Why it matters

This lack of awareness and engagement with retirement savings can put savers at risk of paying excessive fees, having their assets misallocated, and even having small dormant accounts automatically rolled over into less optimal investments. Active management of retirement accounts is crucial for ensuring savings remain on track for a secure financial future.

The details

The nationally representative survey of 1,000 U.S. retirement savers found that 40% consult their account provider directly when they have questions, 28% ask their current employer, and only 4% use AI for retirement queries. Additionally, 31% check their money only once or twice a year, and 9% "never" review their allocation or do so only every three years.

  • The survey was gathered and sent out by email to respondents between December 22nd, 2025, and January 14th, 2026.
  • PensionBee estimates that more than 30% of workplace accounts, such as 401(k)s and 403(b)s, are now dormant, a significant jump from 21% in 2012.

The players

PensionBee

A leading retirement savings provider, helping people easily consolidate, manage, and take control of their retirement savings. The company manages $10 billion in assets and serves over 300,000 customers globally.

Romi Savova

Founder and CEO of PensionBee.

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What they’re saying

“Once you choose to leave a 401(k) behind, it becomes much harder to track fees and investments, or to get help with your accounts. It is difficult to make informed decisions about your retirement if you don't know where your money is held.”

— Romi Savova, Founder and CEO of PensionBee

“Active engagement is one of the best ways to remain on track for a happy retirement. Periodic health checks can help you minimize the likelihood of paying too much in fees and make sure your accounts are well allocated against your timeline.”

— Romi Savova, Founder and CEO of PensionBee

The takeaway

This survey highlights the importance of staying engaged with one's retirement savings, regularly reviewing account allocations, and consolidating scattered accounts to ensure savings are properly managed and on track for a secure financial future. The rise in dormant accounts poses risks that can be mitigated through active account management.