If you’re thinking about buying an annuity to offer a constant source of income in retirement, there are a few things you should know. An annuity can be a difficult concept to grasp. While the basic notion of an annuity is straightforward, the specifics of how it operates are frequently intricate. Thankfully, we’re here to explain the fundamentals of how annuities work, so you can better comprehend them.
Annuities are a type of insurance that can reward you either a lump-sum payment or a regular income stream in the future. An annuity can be purchased with a single upfront payment or a series of payments to the insurance provider. The insurance company then provides you one lump sum payout or several installments over the course of your retirement.
Future payments are mostly determined by the type of annuity you select, the amount you pay for the annuity, and other considerations. So, what are annuities, and how do they work? Here are a few crucial points to keep in mind.
Different Kinds Of Annuities
Each type of annuity has its own set of features. Before deciding on an annuity, make sure you’re familiar with the various varieties, their associated fees, and how annuities function. Riders, which can be connected to your annuity contract to provide you with additional possibilities, are sometimes available. Keep in mind that a rider will almost certainly cost you more.
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Deferred Annuities
With deferred income annuities, the income stream is postponed. Instead of starting right away, your income stream can begin months or years after you purchase your annuity — this is known as the accumulation period because your annuity is earning interest. During the deferral period, you may be able to make additional contributions to boost your future income.
Learn about deferred annuities
Fixed Indexed Annuities
Indexed annuities combine the benefits of both fixed and variable annuities. In essence, indexed annuities can shield you from market declines, but you won’t benefit as much if the market rises.
You can get a fixed amount of guaranteed income with an indexed annuity. However, a portion of your income will be based on the performance of an index, such as the S&P 500, which provides the opportunity for investment growth.
Learn about fixed index annuities
Multi Year Guaranteed Annuities
A multi-year guaranteed annuity, or MYGA, is a fixed annuity that guarantees a fixed interest rate for a set length of time, often three to ten years. A MYGA is suited for someone approaching retirement who seeks tax deferral and investment return assurance.
Learn about multi year guaranteed annuities
Annuity Rollovers
An IRA annuity is a type of qualifying annuity created by rolling over your individual retirement account (IRA) or 401(k) into one. You can do this through an insurance firm by placing your cash directly into the new annuity — tax-free — or by having your employer roll over your 401(k) into an IRA annuity.
Learn about annuity rollover options
Traditional Fixed Annuities
A fixed annuity is simple to understand. With it, the insurance company guarantees you a fixed rate of interest that is not subject to market fluctuations. Fixed annuities are divided into two categories:
Immediate fixed annuities often require you to pay a flat sum in exchange for a guaranteed stream of income for a specific length of time, which could stretch for the rest of your life depending on the terms of the contract. Payments are usually made right away.
With this information, you and possibly a financial consultant can decide whether to purchase an annuity. To determine if an annuity (and what kind of annuity) is right for you, you’ll need to consider your unique position, preferences, and risk tolerance.