Annuities Explained
An annuity is a financial product that provides a steady income stream, typically used for retirement planning. You invest a lump sum with an insurance company, which then pays you back in regular installments in the future (or starting immediately). Your initial principal value sees annual growth linked to the performance of an Index Fund, such as the S&P 500 (and others). However, your account value can never lose principal even if the market goes down.
- Fixed Annuities: Stable, predictable returns
- Indexed Annuities: Returns based on market index
Annuities can be beneficial for several groups of people:
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Individuals with Orphaned 401k: Those no longer employed by the company that sponsored their 401k can roll over funds into an annuity without paying taxes or penalties.
- Note: 401k funds are subject to market losses, as many experienced during the COVID pandemic. In contrast, a fixed index annuity protects your principal from losses.
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Those with Idle Bank Account Funds: Money sitting in a bank account is not "working for you" and typically earns minimal interest.
- A fixed index annuity allows you to potentially gain from market performance without risking your principal.
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Recipients of Lump Sum Payments: Individuals with money from inheritances, lottery winnings, property sales, or other significant one-time payments.
- Provides a safe investment option with market-linked gains and principal protection.
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Individuals with Underperforming Investments: Those with existing annuities or IRA accounts that are not meeting financial goals.
- We can analyze your current account's performance and compare it with recent and existing annuity options to determine potential benefits.
- Near-Retirement Individuals: Those looking for a stable income stream during retirement
- Risk-Averse Investors: People who want protection against market volatility
- Those Seeking Tax-Deferred Growth: Investors wanting to minimize current tax liability
- People Without Other Pension Options: Individuals seeking guaranteed income replacement
- High-Income Earners: Those looking for additional tax-advantaged retirement savings
Life Insurance & IUL
Life insurance is a contract providing financial protection to your beneficiaries in case of your death. It ensures your loved ones are financially secure by paying a predetermined amount upon your passing.
An Indexed Universal Life (IUL) plan is a flexible permanent life insurance policy with a cash value component. The cash value grows (Tax-free) based on the performance of a market index (such as the S&P 500). The cash value is protected against losses, so if the market performs negatively in a given year, you don't earn any gains, but you do not lose anything from your cash value balance. Income withdrawals from cash value are tax-free, and the death benefit value transfers to a beneficiary (also tax-free).
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes. Consult a financial advisor for personalized guidance.