Annuities Explained: Your Free Fiduciary Guide
You've maxed out your 401(k) and IRA contributions. Now what? Annuities offer another tax-advantaged tool for retirement income—but with dozens of product types and complex fee structures, making an informed decision requires clarity. Our fee-only advisors created this guide to explain exactly what you need to know, without a sales pitch.
Download "Annuities, Explained" and learn which annuity types may fit your retirement timeline, how fees actually work, and the questions to ask any advisor who recommends one.
Annuity pros and cons at a glance
Potential benefits
- Guaranteed income stream that can last your lifetime
- Tax-deferred growth beyond 401(k)/IRA contribution limits
- Protection from market volatility (fixed and indexed types)
Key considerations
- Surrender charges typically apply for 6-10 years
- Fees vary significantly between products and providers
- FINRA notes that variable annuities are a leading source of investor complaints due to complexity
As fee-only fiduciary advisors, we help clients evaluate whether an annuity fits their complete financial picture—not to earn a commission.
When annuities make sense (and when they don't)
Annuities may work well for individuals who have already maximized tax-advantaged accounts and seek guaranteed retirement income. They're typically less appropriate for those needing liquidity or with shorter time horizons.
The right answer depends on your specific situation: current savings, Social Security benefits, pension income, healthcare costs, and legacy goals. Our guide walks through a framework for evaluating your options.
Want to compare annuities with other retirement accounts? Our advisors help you weigh all options side by side.
Download your free annuity guide
Get "Annuities, Explained"—a straightforward resource from our CFP® professionals covering types, fees, tax implications, and the questions to ask before signing any contract.