"A growing number of employers are making plans to 'de-risk' their pension plans. That's jargon for reducing the financial risk posed to corporate balance sheets by pension plans -- but if you have a defined-benefit pension and you start hearing that term tossed around, pay careful attention. Less risk for employers can mean more risk for you.... A lump sum may sound attractive, especially if it's a sizable amount, but determining whether it's a good deal depends on these factors: Life expectancy.... Other income sources.... Size of the lump sum.... Interest rates."  MORE >>