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In an uncertain world, annuities can help provide steady, reliable monthly income for life.

An annuity is a contract between you and an insurance company. You'll make purchase payments and your money can grow until you decide to receive the funds in regular payments. Annuities may also offer death benefits for your beneficiaries, so they can help with estate planning as well.

Annuities are not a one-size-fits-all solution, however. Here’s what to consider before you purchase an annuity so you can be sure to choose the right option for your unique needs.

FEATURES OF ANNUITIES

Tax-deferred growth. The money you set aside for an annuity can grow untouched by the IRS until withdrawal, giving you a larger sum to work with.

Flexible withdrawal arrangements.ÌýYou can choose to withdraw from your annuity according to your individual needs. Since annuities are intended for retirement, taxes and penalties may apply.

Principal Protection of Fixed Annuities. Never lose principal due to market performance as fixed annuities are not invested in the market. Even during market downturns, your money will not be affected and you will not lose money.

Diverse Investment Options. For variable annuities, build an investment portfolio that’s diversified the way you choose and participate in the ups and downs of the market.

TYPES OF ANNUITIES

Immediate annuities. Used by those who want reliable income immediately (or within one year of purchase). With it, you can tailor income to fit your needs and create income that lasts for life.

Deferred annuities: For those who want to grow their money over time, but are willing to defer access to the money until retirement years.

TYPES OF DEFERRED ANNUITIES

Fixed annuities:ÌýProvides principal protection and the opportunity for growth through interest.

Variable annuities: Provides greater potential for growth by investing your money inÌýinvestment options you choose and the ability to rebalance your portfolio based on your preferences and in a way that aligns with changing financial goals.

With fixed annuities, the company invests the funds and provides an interest rate to the client. With variable annuities, clients take on the market risk for potential losses as they seek potential gains.Ìý

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Ultimately, annuities are designed to help grow, protect, and manage retirement savings turning it into steady, reliable lifetime income when you need it in retirement. To help understand how an annuity could fit into your overall plan, start with the , which can help you envision current retirement savings as future retirement income. Then you can share the results and discuss annuity options with a financial professional. You can find one here.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF

• When do you need the income―now or later?
• Why are you purchasing the annuity―for principal protection with growth potential?
• While you’re focused on using your savings to enjoy your retirement, are you interested in also leaving a financial legacy—to pass more money on to heirs?
• Are you looking for a vehicle to provide tax-deferred growth―to work as part of your retirement plan?

Discuss the answers to these questions with your financial professional, who can help you determine what type of annuity is best for you.

Retirement Income Translator

You’ve been diligent about saving for retirement. But do you know what those savings translate to in retirement income? Use our Retirement Income Translator tool to find out what your retirement income could be. The tool will ask five simple questions to provide you with a personalized two-minute video to guide you through the results. You’ll be able to download a results report to keep and/or share with your financial professional.