Annuities

Turn Your Savings Into Income for Life

Fixed and fixed index annuities can help protect your savings from market downturns and create a steady stream of retirement income. We explain your options in plain English and compare annuities from A-rated financial companies.
Smiling retired couple sitting together on their living room couch

What it is

A contract designed to provide retirement income.

An annuity is a contract with an insurance company. You make a lump-sum payment or a series of payments, and in return the company can provide income now or in the future, including income that can last for the rest of your life.

Fixed annuities credit a set interest rate. Fixed index annuities credit interest based partly on a market index, with protection from index losses. Any guarantees are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing company, and terms, fees and features vary by contract.

Options for income that can last your lifetime
Protection of principal from market downturns
Tax-deferred growth until you take withdrawals
Fixed and fixed index options to match your goals

Key features

How annuities work for you

Six features that make annuities a popular choice for people planning their retirement income.

Lifetime income options

Turn savings into income you can’t outlive, based on the contract you choose.

Principal protection

Fixed and fixed index annuities are designed to protect your principal from market losses.

Index-linked growth

Fixed index annuities can credit interest linked to a market index, up to a cap.

Tax-deferred growth

Earnings generally grow tax-deferred until you take withdrawals.

Flexible payout choices

Choose when income starts and how long it lasts, within the contract’s options.

Death benefit for heirs

Many contracts pass remaining value to your beneficiaries.

Benefits & considerations

The full picture, before you decide

Annuities can bring real peace of mind, but they’re long-term commitments. Here’s an honest look at both sides.

Benefits

Steady income that can last your lifetime
Protection from market downturns
Tax-deferred growth on earnings
Predictable income for budgeting in retirement
Options to leave remaining value to loved ones

Things to consider

Surrender charges if you withdraw more than allowed in the early years
Caps and participation rates limit index-linked growth
Withdrawals before age 59½ may face a 10% IRS penalty
Fees for optional riders can reduce returns
Less liquid than a savings or brokerage account

Why it matters

A comfortable retirement isn’t just about how much you’ve saved. It’s about knowing that income will keep arriving, month after month, for as long as you need it.

FAQ

Annuity questions, answered

Still have questions? Book a free consultation and we’ll walk you through how an annuity could fit your retirement plan.
What’s the difference between a fixed and a fixed index annuity?
A fixed annuity credits a set interest rate. A fixed index annuity credits interest based partly on a market index, such as the S&P 500, up to a cap, with protection from index losses.
Can I lose money in an annuity?
Fixed and fixed index annuities are designed to protect your principal from market losses. However, surrender charges, rider fees or early withdrawals can reduce what you receive.
When can I access my money?
Most annuities allow a free withdrawal each year, often around 10%. Withdrawing more during the surrender period can trigger charges, and withdrawals before age 59½ may face an IRS penalty.
What happens to my annuity when I die?
Many annuities pass remaining value to your named beneficiaries. The details depend on the contract and the payout option you choose.
Are annuity guarantees really guaranteed?
Guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company, which is why we work with A-rated financial companies.

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