If an absolute, no hassle, no risk, retirement supplement is what you seek, a Fixed Annuity may be a part of a financial plan to help safeguard your assets.  A Fixed Annuity guarantees a minimum fixed interest rate for the contract term and current rates are typically higher than rates on CDs.  Many retirees already depend on this steady income source, with predictable returns and no market risk.  Fixed Annuities can provide more liquidity than CDs. After age 59 ½ most annuities allow an annual withdraw of up to 10% of the balance without a surrender penalty.  Furthermore, on some Fixed Annuities withdrawals can be made of all the annual interest earned without penalties.

Contract terms on Fixed Annuities can be purchased anywhere from a year, 10 years or even until age 100. Typically the longer the term in years, the higher the interest rate for fixed term annuities. Penalties can be incurred in the form of surrender charges if withdrawals are made prior to contract terms.  Withdrawals made prior to age 59 1/2 may also be subject to a 10% penalty.

Fixed Annuities are designed for wealth preservation with tax benefits being one of the most prominent features.  This helps with social security income calculations as taxes are not incurred until a payment is made and only the interest is considered taxable income. Tax Deferred Fixed Annuities are also not subject to a lengthy probate process and can be directly bequeathed to a named beneficiary avoiding unnecessary expenses. In this highly competitive market, new products and features are constantly being offered. Through an IRS section 1035 exchange, you can change from one annuity to another without triggering a taxable event, though you will trigger surrender charges.

Annuities are not backed by the FDIC, they are insurance company products. All funds are guaranteed by the good standing and assets of the issuing company. Insurance companies are licensed and regulated in each state in which they operate and funds are typically held in reserve that equal the amount of your investment. State Guaranty Associations further protect annuities against carrier insolvency.  Each state covers annuity contracts and life insurance face amounts in a typical range of $ 100,000 to $300,000. Insurance agents are prohibited from mentioning the state guarantees to solicit a sale.

There are dozens of Fixed Annuities from which to choose. A good financial advisor or annuity broker can help you identify your needs and assist in the suitability process.