An annuity is a contract between you and an insurance company to provide a steady income stream during retirement. You invest funds during the accumulation phase, annuitize the contract when you’re ready to retire, and begin receiving regular income during the payout phase. Riders might be available for an additional fee to create a death benefit for your beneficiary or beneficiaries. Most annuities come with surrender fees. Withdrawing money during the surrender period, wh

An annuity is a contract purchased through an insurance company that guarantees income for a specific number of months or years. You receive a monthly income in an amount set when you fund the contract: An annuity can be purchased through a lump-sum payment or a series of payments to the issuer. The money grows tax-deferred through interest payments or investments in a market index or stock portfolio. You receive immediate or deferred payments, depending on the timeline selec