There are many types of annuities that can be a smart decision for retirees. Today, we are diving into the different types of annuities for retirement
But before anything can be done, many considerations to consider before purchasing an annuity. This article will help you better understand the different types of annuities so you can make an informed decision on what will work best for your situation.
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Examples of decisions you may need to make:
- Is a fixed or variable annuity better for me?
- What are the differences between a deferred, market index, or fixed indexed annuity?
- Should I purchase an annuity in my retirement savings or with personal funds?
Before we dive into the different types of annuities, it’s essential to create a retirement plan.
A well-designed retirement 
plan includes an inventory of assets and liabilities. It should include your total income from all sources and your total expenses.
There are two categories I recommend calculating when determining your expenses. The first category is “need-based” expenses. These include essentials, such as rent, taxes, insurance, utilities, and groceries. The second is “want-based” expenses, such as entertainment, travel, dining out, and accessories such as jewelry or clothing.
If you don’t have a retirement plan or want to make sure it is in order, click here:
What is an Annuity?
An annuity is a financial product that provides a series of payments made at equal intervals. It is typically used as a tool for managing and distributing funds, often for retirement planning or income. Insurance companies offer annuities that can be tailored to meet various financial goals and needs.
Considerations of the types of annuities for retirement
Lack of Liquidity
Most annuities are illiquid investments. If you need a large sum of money for an emergency or another financial goal, you may not have easy access to it without incurring significant penalties. There may also be a penalty if taken before the surrender charge is over or if you take money out before the allowed age. A “surrender charge” is a type of sales charge you must pay for a certain number of years if you sell or withdraw more money than the allowed withdrawal from an annuity. So, before you invest in an annuity, consult with a qualified advisor.
Complexity
All annuities are complex. Before investing in any annuity, you should consult with a qualified, independent advisor to confirm an annuity is appropriate based on your financial goals, liquidity needs, and risk tolerance.
Always review the contract, disclosures, terms, and fees before investing in an annuity.
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Types of Annuities
There are several types of annuities, including:
Immediate Annuity
With an immediate annuity, you make a lump-sum payment to the insurance company, and the company then begins making regular payments to you. These payments can be for a fixed period of time or for the rest of your life, providing a guaranteed income stream. They can also be for your life and a guaranteed period in the event you die early.
Pros
Guarantees
Immediate annuities provide a steady stream of income that is guaranteed for a specified period or for life. This can be particularly beneficial for retirees who want to ensure a regular income in retirement. Because they often are the most illiquid, always consult with a qualified advisor before purchasing.
Less Market Risk
Unlike investments in stocks or bonds, immediate annuities do not expose you to market fluctuations. Your income remains consistent, regardless of how financial markets perform.
Protection Against Longevity Risk
An immediate annuity can protect against the risk of outliving your savings. If you live longer than expected, the annuity payments continue, providing financial security.
Basically, the insurance company is helping to fund your retirement.
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Simplicity
Immediate annuities are straightforward. You make a lump-sum payment to the insurance company, and in return, you receive regular payments. There is no need to manage investments or worry about market conditions.
Tax Advantages
A portion or all of the annuity payments you receive may be subject to income tax.
Cons
Loss of Principal
When you purchase an immediate annuity, you typically give up access to the principal amount you invest.
Lack of Flexibility
Immediate annuities are not flexible. Once you start receiving payments, you usually cannot change the payment amount, scheduled payments, or get out any of your principal.
Inflation Risk
Annuity payments are typically fixed and do not adjust for inflation, reducing your purchasing power.
Low Interest Rates
When interest rates are low, the initial payments from an immediate annuity may also be relatively low.
Fixed Annuity
Fixed annuities offer a guaranteed interest rate for a specified period, similar to a certificate of deposit (CD). They provide a predictable income stream, making them a conservative option for those who want stability.
Pros
Guarantees
The interest rate is typically guaranteed.
Safety and Security
The principal is safe and protected, and the income is stable and predictable.
Tax-Deferred Growth
Earnings grow tax-deferred.
Simplicity
Simple and easy to understand compared to other annuities.
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Cons
Lower Returns
Due to the guarantees, returns are generally lower for annuities and investments.
Less Flexibility
You typically can’t access your money without incurring penalties or surrender charges for a period of time.
Surrender Charges and Penalties
If taken out early, there may be surrender charges, penalties, and taxes.
Lack of Liquidity
Funds may lack liquidity if you have a long surrender period.
Also, review the terms of your contract before investing money in any annuity or investment.
Variable Annuity
Variable annuities allow you to invest your contributions in various investment options, such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. Your returns are not guaranteed and can fluctuate based on the performance of your chosen investments.
Pros
Higher Returns
There is a potential for more investment growth than other annuities because there is more risk and you can lose your money.
Tax-Deferred Growth
Funds grow tax-deferred until you make withdrawals.
Investment Customization
You can tailor your risk tolerance and financial goals. Because the internal costs are generally higher, you need to confirm that your investment selection justifies the cost.
Death Benefit Option
Generally, you can name a beneficiary who will receive the proceeds at your death.
Riders and Options
Variable annuities may offer other options and riders, such as a lifetime income.
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Cons
Market Risk and Investment Loss
If the investments perform poorly, you can lose all your money.
Higher Fees and Expenses
Variable annuities tend to have higher internal costs than other investment options. For this reason, you must make sure a variable annuity makes sense for you and your situation.
Complex and Inflexible
Variable annuities are often difficult to understand. Before buying an annuity, regardless of the type, you need to review the contract, product, terms, fees, and potential risks. Variable annuities are generally considered illiquid investments.
Surrender Charges and Penalties
Also, check your contract for fees, charges, and penalties if you take money out early.
Indexed Annuity
Indexed annuities provide returns linked to a specific financial index, such as the S&P 500. They offer the potential for higher returns than a fixed annuity while also providing some level of downside protection.
Pros
Principal Protection
This means your principal is protected from market downturns. You won’t lose money due to poor market performance.
Market Participation
Index Annuities are linked to the performance of a specific financial index, such as the S&P 500, unless you invest them in a fixed income bucket. They offer the upside of market gains without taking on the full risk of the market.
They also offer various indexing strategies, allowing you to choose the one that best aligns with your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Common strategies include point-to-point, cap, monthly average, and annual reset.
Tax-Deferred Growth
Annuities provide tax-deferred growth. This means you do not have to pay taxes until you take your money out.
Guaranteed Lifetime Income
They also provide a range of income options, including guaranteed lifetime income streams. This can help address the risk of outliving your savings in retirement.
Death Benefit Option
Indexed annuities typically offer a death benefit feature, but the specifics can vary from one annuity contract to another. Always check on the options, including the death benefit, before purchasing an annuity.
Cons
Complex in Nature
Because of the complex nature of the strategies, you must review the contract, product, terms, fees, and potential risks before purchasing.
We recommended that you always consult with a qualified advisor before you purchase any annuity.
Limited Market Participation
Because you typically can’t lose your principle, there is a limit to your gains.
Surrender Charges and Penalties
Review the contract carefully for charges, fees, and penalties before investing or withdrawing any money.
Limited Liquidity
Like most annuities, you can only withdraw a specified amount of money each year, typically 10% (unless it is for RMD). Other withdrawals taken before the annuitization phase, retirement age, or surrender period may result in penalties and fees.
Recap – “Different Types of Annuities for Retirement”
Annuities can serve different purposes, such as providing retirement income, ensuring longevity risk protection (the risk of outliving your savings), or creating a predictable income stream for a set period.
However, it’s important to note that annuities are complex financial products, and their suitability depends on an individual’s financial goals, liquidity needs, risk tolerance, and overall financial situation.
They often come with fees and penalties for early withdrawals. It is crucial to thoroughly review the annuity contract and understand the terms and conditions before investing in one.
We strongly recommend that you consult with a financial advisor to help you make an informed decision based on your financial situation.
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