CHICAGO -- A new study by Alliant Credit Union and the International Society of Certified Employee Benefit Specialists finds that many U.S. workers are one paycheck from financial trouble.

The white paper, entitled "American Workers: Getting Ahead or Just Getting By?," finds that although employees are generally pleased with their income levels they can't seem to save money or get ahead financially. Less than 20% considered themselves to be financially secure

In addition, employer benefits such as health and retirement plans are seen as important but primarily for future rather than present needs. Many employees have financial needs that require assistance here and now.

According to ISCEBS President/Mosse & Mosse Associates Senior Vice President Phillip Grisafi, there is a definite need for employers to provide programs that help employees with personal money management and most employees surveyed said they would welcome financial information from their workplace.