Published On : 09/15/2023

The Steps to Investing in an Annuity

The journey to a secure financial future begins with understanding what investment options are available to you. Annuities, in particular, have gained popularity as a reliable way to ensure you receive a steady income during retirement.

If you’re considering this investment option, it’s important to approach it with the right knowledge, clear understanding, and a good strategy. Annuities are one of the investment options that is garnering a lot of attention right now due to the more favorable interest rate environment for earning higher returns. We connected with Ty Young, CEO of Ty J. Young Wealth Management, one of the leading wealth management companies specializing in annuities, to learn more about the process of investing in an annuity.

Determine Your Retirement Goals

Determining your retirement goals is the first step to investing in an annuity.

To do this, it helps to create your ideal vision for retirement by asking yourself several key questions. For example, do you want to:

• Travel the world?
• Leave an inheritance for loved ones?
• Ensure all of your basic living expenses are covered?
• Achieve a combination of several goals?

You can better align your investment choices with your future aspirations by outlining your specific retirement goals.

Determine Your Liquidity Needs

The next step involves liquidity. Liquidity refers to how quickly you can access invested funds without facing a penalty.

When investing in an annuity, it’s important that you understand your liquidity needs since some annuities impose surrender charges if money is withdrawn early. For instance, will you need regular access to your funds? Or can you afford to have them locked in for a more extended period of time?

Your liquidity requirements will influence the type of annuity you choose based on its terms.

Learn the Types of Annuities That Exist and How They Work

After determining your retirement goals and liquidity needs, you’re ready to research the various annuity products available. Key categories include:

• Fixed
• Variable
• Immediate
• Deferred

Each of these annuities has its own set of nuances, so understanding each type will help you decide whether an annuity is the best way for you to achieve your retirement goals.

Fixed Annuities

Fixed annuities provide payments that are predetermined and guaranteed. They offer simplicity, reliable income, and protection against market volatility.

Variable Annuities

Variable annuities allow you to invest your funds similarly to mutual fund investments. They offer more growth and potential than fixed annuities but also come with greater risk.

Immediate Annuities

Immediate annuities begin payments right away after purchase. They’re typically purchased near or during retirement since they provide income now rather than in the future.

Deferred Annuities

These annuities delay the onset of payouts into the future. With deferred annuities, you pay a premium today, which allows the funds to accumulate tax-deferred. These are great for building up a nest egg for future income needs.

Know How You’ll Fund the Annuity

Once you’ve selected the annuity you want to invest in, you need to decide how to fund the purchase. Funding sources can include:

• Cash
• Retirement accounts
• Ongoing contributions
• Investment rollovers

The funding method you choose will impact the strategies you employ going forward and the available annuity types. A professional financial advisor can help you determine the best funding method for your particular circumstances.

Work With a Professional Financial Advisor

The world of annuities can be complex, and navigating it alone is a daunting task. This is where the expertise of a professional financial advisor comes into play. By partnering with financial experts, you can ensure that you’re purchasing the right annuity tailored to your unique situation and lifestyle goals.

Remember that the goal is not just to invest but to invest wisely. By following these steps and seeking guidance from a financial advisor, you can make investment choices that align with your goals while offering safety.

Jessica Weisman-Pitts

Jesse Pitts has been with the Global Banking & Finance Review since 2016, serving in various capacities, including Graphic Designer, Content Publisher, and Editorial Assistant. As the sole graphic designer for the company, Jesse plays a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of Global Banking & Finance Review. Additionally, Jesse manages the publishing of content across multiple platforms, including Global Banking & Finance Review, Asset Digest, Biz Dispatch, Blockchain Tribune, Business Express, Brands Journal, Companies Digest, Economy Standard, Entrepreneur Tribune, Finance Digest, Fintech Herald, Global Islamic Finance Magazine, International Releases, Online World News, Luxury Adviser, Palmbay Herald, Startup Observer, Technology Dispatch, Trading Herald, and Wealth Tribune.