Retiree Health Benefits: What Is the Promise Book

U.S. corporations are liable for an estimated $169 billion in unfunded commitments for medical benefits provided to retirees. Few companies set aside funds to pay for these future benefits or recognize the magnitude of their future liabilities, in part because of the lack of adequate tax incentives. Nevertheless, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) will require that these liabilities be recognized on the corporate balance sheet. This move has multiple effects-on businesses, employees, and policymakers. Learn about the significance of employer-sponsored health benefits for retirees, how the new FASB rules may affect corporate profitability, what the courts say about the legal liability for continuing these benefits, and how the U.S. Congress views employer tax incentives for providing these benefits. Originally published in 1989 by and distributed for the Employee Benefit Research Institute.