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 Annuities come in various forms – fixed, variable, income, index-linked and more – and each has its place and time in an investment portfolio. Generally, annuities are purchased as long-term investments to cover future needs like retirement or lifetime income; however, in recent times, annuities have emerged as a safe-haven for “just-in-case” money that heretofore was held in banks or government bonds. Annuities are issued by insurance companies and generally presented by financial advisors and planners to conservative, long-term savers seeking reasonable returns, safety and some access to their money in case of unexpected needs. All annuities offer triple compounding through tax deferral of earnings.
Annuities have been in existence for well over two hundred years. The very first mention of Annuities in the United States was the use of these products by the Presbyterian Church in 1740 to provide security for the clergy and widows. Annuities allow you to accumulate tax-deferred funds for retirement and then, if you desire, receive a guaranteed income (this process is called Annuitization) payable for life or for a specified period of time: generally a term of five or ten years.
Annuities are offered by Insurance companies and sold through licensed agents. The insurance company must be evaluated and licensed in your state as does the agent. State insurance commissions scrutinize Insurance companies to ensure they have reserve funds, commonly referred to as State Legal Reserve Pools, in place to protect investors before granting insurance companies licenses. If an insurance company goes out of business other insurance companies licensed in state must assume bankrupt insurers obligations and liabilities. Note that this protection protects fixed-rate annuity holders only, with some protection afforded to variable annuity owners.
Annuities are very similar to CDs offered by banks. Just like banks insurance companies offer different rates and returns on annuity investments.
Advantages of Annuities:
All annuities have three primary advantages: Tax Deferral, Avoidance of Probate, and a Guaranteed Income (optional) for a fixed period of time, or income for life.
More specific reasons to invest in fixed and immediate annuities:
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