Consumers' IRA contributions have hit record levels, but the extra funds may not be enough to save for retirement. Account-holders contributed an average $4,150 during tax year 2013, an all-time high, according to a new report from Fidelity Investments. That tally represents a 5.7 percent increase from 2012. "Investors are putting their money where their mouth is by committing to save more for retirement," said Kevin Hevert, vice president of Fidelity Investments. Investors have previously told Fidelity that saving more was a key financial goal, he said, and the rise in contributions shows that's more than a New Year's resolution. Although it's a bright spot that consumers are saving more, investors still have a long way to go. Even contributing the maximum $5,500 to an IRA ($6,500 for consumers age 50 and older) won't be enough for many consumers to have a comfortable retirement, said Sam McPherson, a certified financial planner based in Brooklyn, New York. Failing to save is a lost opportunity.
Sign up for top Business news direct to your inbox.
IN-DEPTH
- Millionaires really are different; they don't want to retire!
- More Americans Opting to Retire Abroad
- Same Pay, More Expenses Means Little Emergency Savings
-- By Kelli B. Grant, CNBC Personal Finance and Consumer Spending Reporter