RETIREMENT & WEALTH PROTECTION

A thoughtful approach
to what comes next.

Retirement brings new questions about income, time and financial responsibilities. Insurance-based strategies may play a role, depending on your needs and the details of the contract.

Understand what an annuity does

An annuity is a contract with an insurance company. Depending on the contract, it may provide income payments or other insurance features. How money can be accessed, when payments begin and which options apply are important parts of the decision.

Look closely at access and obligations

Ask about surrender periods, withdrawal charges, fees, payment choices and the treatment of money left to beneficiaries. A contract intended for a long time horizon may be unsuitable if you need ready access to your funds.

Ask how interest is credited

Different annuity types use different crediting methods. Indexed annuities may use a formula linked to an index, subject to contract-specific caps, participation rates or other limits. They do not directly invest your money in the index. An index’s performance does not tell you what a contract will credit.

Keep guarantees in context

Any contractual guarantees depend on the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company and the actual contract terms. They do not promise wealth, market returns or particular accumulation results.

Questions to bring to a conversation

• What purpose would this contract serve in my retirement plans?
• When could I need access to the money?
• Which benefits are contractual, and which may change?
• What charges, limitations and exclusions apply?
• What should I review with my tax or legal professional?