Annuities
Predictable income. Peace of mind in retirement.
One of the biggest fears in retirement is outliving your savings. An annuity can provide a guaranteed stream of income for life — giving you the confidence to spend without worrying about what the market does next. I explain your options in plain language and only recommend an annuity if it genuinely fits your retirement plan.
Types of annuities I work with
I focus on fixed and fixed indexed annuities — products designed for safety, predictability, and long-term income. I do not sell variable annuities.
Fixed Annuities
A fixed annuity earns a guaranteed interest rate for a set period — similar to a CD but with tax-deferred growth. It is a straightforward, low-risk way to grow savings without market exposure.
Fixed Indexed Annuities
A fixed indexed annuity (FIA) links your growth potential to a market index — like the S&P 500 — while protecting your principal from market losses. You participate in market gains up to a cap, but your account never goes down due to market performance.
Income Riders & Lifetime Withdrawal Benefits
An income rider is an optional feature that guarantees you a stream of income for life — regardless of how long you live or what the market does. It is one of the most powerful tools available for retirement income planning.
My approach to annuities
Annuities are powerful tools — but they are not right for everyone. I start every annuity conversation by understanding your full financial picture: your income sources, your expenses, your liquidity needs, and your goals. Only then do I recommend a product.
- Fixed and fixed indexed annuity comparisons
- Income rider and lifetime withdrawal benefit analysis
- Surrender period and liquidity review
- Tax-deferred growth explained in plain language
- Annuity vs. other retirement income strategies
- IRA and 401(k) rollover coordination
- Carrier financial strength review
- Honest recommendation — including "not right for you"
Common annuity questions
Is an annuity right for me?
Not always — and I will tell you honestly if it is not. Annuities work well for people who want guaranteed income, principal protection, or tax-deferred growth. They are not the right fit for everyone, and I never recommend one unless it genuinely fits your situation.
What is a surrender period?
Most annuities have a surrender period — typically 5 to 10 years — during which withdrawing more than a set amount triggers a surrender charge. I explain these terms clearly before you commit to anything, and I help you choose a product whose liquidity terms match your needs.
How are annuities taxed?
Annuities grow tax-deferred, meaning you don't pay taxes on the growth until you withdraw it. Withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income. If you fund an annuity with pre-tax money (like an IRA rollover), the entire withdrawal is taxable. I walk you through the tax implications for your specific situation.
Can I lose money in an annuity?
With a fixed or fixed indexed annuity, your principal is protected from market losses. You will not lose money due to market performance. Surrender charges can reduce your account value if you withdraw early, which is why I help you choose the right product and term from the start.
Ready to talk retirement income?
A free, no-obligation conversation is all it takes. Tell me about your retirement goals and I'll help you figure out whether an annuity belongs in your plan.