The contributions from small business owners have decreased, but the majority of them say they will continue to offer 401(k) retirement plans to their employees and health benefits.

The economy is forcing more than half of self-described small business owners to consider reducing or stopping their employee contribution match, according to a new Nationwide Financial Services survey. The survey found that 44% of owners overall are considering the same changes.

Retirement plans are not the only aspect of compensation under threat. About 34% of small businesses expect to modify or reduce their health care benefits this year. Those most concerned about having to change their health care benefits include company owners at 53% and those businesses with 50 associates or less at 39%.

“Though small businesses are facing some tough choices right now, our survey shows that they clearly understand the importance of offering a 401(k) as part of their benefits package,” said Paul Ballew, senior vice president of insights and analytics for Nationwide, in a statement.

As the recession continues its hold, the value of retirement plans for employees will increase, according to retirement experts.

“For most Americans, their 401(k) is their primary, if not only, source for retirement savings and the reality is that most workers save virtually nothing outside of these plans,” said Ballew. “It’s important for small businesses to try and maintain this critical benefit for their employees.”

According to the survey, three in four small businesses don’t expect the economy to impact their ability to continue offering a 401(k) plan. However, 51% of small business owners anticipate that tough economic times could force them to reduce or stop matching employee contributions to the plan.

He added that the survey found that 64% of those who offer a 401(k) do it to help their employees invest for retirement and 21% offer a plan to attract and retain talent.