The figure below provides a historical perspective on the growth of private sector defined contribution plans, particularly 401(k) plans, relative to defined benefit plans. The data presented in these figures are from data based on Form 5500 filings. As illustrated in the figures below, the number of defined contribution plans and active participants in those plans has increased over time, while the number of defined benefit plans and active participants in those plans has decreased. Further, the growth in defined contribution plans resulted from a large increase in 401(k) plans and participants, which offset a decrease in the number of non-401(k) defined contribution plans and participants that occurred over much of this period.