This paper will focus on the U.S. situation and provide insights into public awareness of and knowledge about disability.  The paper will discuss the trend to defined contribution retirement systems and the implications of disability for retirement security when the primary plan is a DC plan.   The treatment of disability between DB and DC plans will be contrasted.  The paper will also discuss other gaps in disability coverage. 

The  U.S. Department of Labor’s ERISA Advisory Council is studying this topic in 2012.  The paper will use the testimony and work of the ERISA Advisory Council as well as data from The Council for Disability Awareness, and previous work of the author to inform the project.  The ERISA Advisory Council report will be published in early 2013.