What is an Annuity?


An annuity is a long-term investment between you and an insurance company. Under this contract, you pay after-tax funds to the issuer, who then invests your principal to meet your financial objectives and pays you or your beneficiary later with the earnings (subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuer).

A man is giving an insurance policy to a woman with a pen to sign it.

How do annuities work?

If you have a fixed annuity, your interest rate is guaranteed. With a variable annuity, your earnings are linked with the fluctuating performance of your investments and may be worth more or less than your principal when redeemed. In addition, you have added control in how your money is invested, creating a higher potential for growth. However, this option comes with a higher risk in return.


Unlike other investment plans, there is no limit to how much you can invest in an annuity. Your funds will steadily grow with a tax-deferred status, and you pay your regular tax income rate on only your earnings upon withdrawal.

What types of annuities are there?

An immediate annuity can begin paying you right away. You can choose whether you want your income guaranteed for a specific time period or if you want lifelong payments. The amount of your payments is calculated based on your principal and your life expectancy.


A deferred annuity is broken up into two phases:



  • Accumulation: This is when you add money to your annuity, whether you pay in a lump sum or you make a series of payments. You can continue to let your account grow tax-deferred for an indefinite amount of time.
  • Distribution: This is when you begin withdrawing money from your annuity whether you take out systematic withdrawals or you annuitize to supplement your finances with a regular stream of income for life.

Why should I consider an annuity?

An annuity is a good investment option for individuals who are willing to take a bigger risk in hopes of earning a bigger payout. Your earnings can then be used for supplemental income during retirement, guaranteed financial independence as you age, or a monetary legacy to leave behind for your loved ones. An annuity can help you continue living comfortably well into old age.


Contact us to learn more about planning your future with an annuity. We are happy to answer your questions and help begin your investment process today. We also offer retirement planning assistance for social security benefits and Medicare.