An income annuity can establish a reliable revenue source whether you need a cushion now or are preparing for retirement. It’s a powerful tool to convert your savings into dependable, guaranteed income.

We'll explain how an annuity works, examine available types, and share the top benefits so you can decide if an income annuity should be part of your financial strategy.

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What's an income annuity? 

An income annuity is a contract offered by an insurance company and purchased by individuals. It transforms a lump sum or series of payments into a paycheck that lasts for a set time frame.

Typically purchased by individuals planning for or already enjoying retirement, these financial instruments work like a personalized pension plan you create for yourself. But annuities aren’t exclusive to retirees — for instance, immediate annuities can turn an inheritance into a regular income for buyers of any age.

If you're looking to supplement your Social Security, fill income gaps, or establish a stable financial foundation, an income annuity can offer a solution. There's no need for complicated calculations or market stress — just reliable payments.

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How does an income annuity work?

When you purchase an income annuity, you give money to an insurance company. In exchange, the insurance company commits to paying you a monthly income for a certain length of time.

Depending on whether you choose an immediate or deferred contract, you’ll start receiving payments anywhere from 30 days to 40 years in the future. The insurance company can help you choose a plan that best suits your needs. Your age, total contribution, selected payout options, and available interest rates all affect the amount you'll receive.

Regardless of the type you select, income annuities deliver a steady stream of income you can count on. They’re designed to:

• Replace lost employment income
• Supplement Social Security
• Provide a baseline of financial security

‍Pro tip: Consider using guaranteed income annuities to cover basic living expenses. If your other savings accounts run low, these stable sources can support you.

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2 types of income annuities

When searching for types of income annuities , consider the following options.

1. Immediate income annuities

An immediate annuity converts your nest egg into a monthly salary, and payouts begin as soon as one month after your purchase. The beauty lies in its details: no waiting period, no complicated calculations — just predictable income you can count on. Purchasing an immediate annuity allows you to:

• Secure your future: Receive a regular income stream and help eliminate the worry of outliving your savings.
• Protect against market volatility: Shield a portion of your savings against market fluctuations.
• Support your family: Some plans offer death benefits for your beneficiaries, ensuring their financial well-being.
  

2. Deferred income annuities

Not quite ready to retire? A deferred income annuity lets you plan while you’re still working. Think of it as setting up a retirement check in advance — your future self will have peace of mind and stability, knowing today's interest rate will be the same as tomorrow's. This strategic approach allows you to:

• Lock in future income: Secure regular payments in advance so you know you’ll have support, regardless of where life takes you.
• Build your retirement funds gradually: Contribute what you can, and let your savings grow at a consistent rate over time.
• Choose when your payments begin: Create a predictable income stream by selecting the date you want to start receiving payments.

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Income annuity pros & cons

Income annuities are an attractive option for retirement planning.

Pros

1. Provides a guaranteed income

The primary benefit of an income annuity is the guarantee of regular income payments for life or a specified period. This guarantee offers more peace of mind, since you can rely on a stable income stream.

2. Ensures financial security in retirement

You’re less likely to outlive your savings with a retirement income annuity that offers a guaranteed income stream. This financial security allows you to enjoy your retirement without worrying about money.

3. Provides tax benefits

In many cases, income annuities offer tax advantages. Typically, you don’t pay taxes on annuity contributions until you start receiving payments. This means more of your money can accrue interest, letting your funds grow tax-deferred. 

4. Offers flexibility

There are many ways to customize your annuity payments, such as protecting against inflation or providing income for a surviving spouse. This flexibility allows you to tailor the annuity to your needs and circumstances.

If these options aren’t built into your annuity, you can also purchase annuity riders to customize your plan. They may slightly reduce your earnings, but they offer further protections for risk management and estate planning.

Cons

1. May not provide money for your heirs

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2. Funds are not easily convertible into cash

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3. Penalties and surrender charges may apply to early withdrawals

FAQs

Are income annuities a good idea?

An income annuity can be a smart choice if you want predictable income that can last your lifetime. It’s particularly worth considering if you're looking to supplement Social Security, plan for long-term care, or protect your beneficiaries with a guaranteed death benefit.

However, like any financial decision, it's essential to weigh the benefits against potential drawbacks and consider how an annuity fits into your broader long-term financial strategy. A financial advisor can help you evaluate whether an annuity aligns with your specific goals and circumstances.

How much does an income annuity cost?

The cost varies based on age, contribution amount, and desired payout terms. Typically, the insurance company doesn’t charge fees upfront, instead building them into the payout rates.

Who guarantees income payments?

Insurance companies support income annuity payments. Most states also have guarantee associations that provide additional protection, typically up to $250,000–500,000 per contract.

Are there tax advantages to using an annuity?

Generally, if you purchase an annuity with after-tax dollars, only the earnings portion of your payments will be taxed. For personalized advice, consult a tax professional.

What happens to the money if I die unexpectedly?

It depends on the type of annuity you choose. Some offer death benefits or allow you to select options that provide payments to beneficiaries. However, these features often lower your monthly payouts.

How much income will a $100,000 annuity pay per month?

The monthly income from a $100,000 annuity depends on factors like the annuitant’s age, the type of annuity, and current interest rates. For instance, a 65-year-old allocating $100,000 in a 10-year immediate income annuity might receive approximately $1,055 monthly. This estimate assumes a combination of principal repayment and interest over the annuity’s term.

Specific payout amounts vary by provider and market conditions. Use the Gainbridge^®ParityFlex™ online annuity calculator or consult an annuity provider for an estimate tailored to your age, contribution amount, and financial goals.

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This communication is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be interpreted as, individualized investment, legal, or tax advice.