Preparing for Retirement

This is the most basic type of annuity. You make one lump-sum contribution and it's then converted into an ongoing, guaranteed stream of income for a specified period of time (as few as five years) or for a lifetime. Withdrawals may begin within a year.

Deferred variable annuities allow clients and advisors to determine how assets are invested by choosing from a selection of investment options, usually referred to as subaccounts. These investments can include stocks, bonds, money markets, and more. The value of these annuities will fluctuate based on the ups and downs of the market.

Fixed annuities allow you to lock in a rate of earning that, even over long periods of time, remains unaffected by market ups and downs. The principal investment and a specified interest rate are both guaranteed.

A fixed indexed annuity is a tax-deferred, long-term savings option that provides principal protection in a down market and opportunity for growth. It gives you more growth potential than a fixed annuity but with less risk and less potential return than a variable annuity.