Let us help make sure you can retire worry free. A fixed or variable deferred annuity, also known as an accumulation annuity, is like your 401(k) or IRA. You can save money tax-deferred that you can use as an extra source of income in retirement.
How do annuities work as part of a financial plan?
Whatever you dream of when it comes to retirement, making sure you'll have the money to make it happen is an important part of your financial plan. Fewer companies offer pensions these days. And the future of Social Security is uncertain. Now, more than ever, people have to rely on themselves to plan for their finances in retirement. A fixed or variable deferred annuity can be a smart way to keep your retirement goals on track. You can save and grow your money, tax-deferred, over and above what you can save by maxing out your contributions to your 401(k) or IRA.
Like with all financial solutions, annuities do come with some costs. But there are also some big benefits. Depending on the type you choose, you can have tax deferment, a minimum death benefit, or guaranteed income for life.
You won't lose your money if you pass away sooner than expected.
Many fixed and variable annuities come with a death benefit. This feature makes sure your loved ones will get back at least what you put into your annuity if you pass away before your income payments start.
It's never too early or too late to start planning for the future.
With a fixed annuity, you can get guaranteed growth that's tax-deferred.1 With a variable annuity, you can invest your savings.2 Either is a great option if you're rolling over a retirement plan or you've maxed out your 401(k) or IRA contributions.
Questions about fixed and variable annuities? We've got answers.
Fixed and variable deferred annuities are a great option for anyone who wants to save more for their retirement. Fixed annuities are a good choice if you're 5 to 10 years away from retirement. It's a safe way to grow your money without risking your initial investment. Variable annuities, on the other hand, can be a smart move if you're closer to retirement, or if you're younger. That's because there are a range of investment options that can match your situation and risk tolerance. See how your advisor can help you create a retirement plan with the right annuity for you.
Saving in a 401(k) and taking advantage of your employer's match is a smart move. But both 401(k)s and IRAs have caps on how much you can contribute annually. Annuities are another way to save for retirement without limits on how much you can contribute. Ask your advisor for more details. Get matched today.
Variable annuities are long-term investments that can help you save money for retirement. The money you put into them grows tax-deferred, like with an IRA or a 401(k). They have multiple investment options, which you can choose from. There are no limits on non-qualified contributions, so when you take money out down the road, only your earnings are taxed as income. When you're ready to take your money out, you'll have a few options. You can convert it into a guaranteed, lifelong income annuity, or you can take your money in one lump sum. Find out more about how variable annuities work.
Fixed annuities are a way to save money for retirement. The money you save is tax-deferred like in an IRA or a 401(k) and you'll get a guaranteed minimum rate of return.1 There are no investment options with fixed annuities, but you'll get fixed payments under the conditions you choose when you buy the annuity. There are no limits on non-qualified contributions, and only your earnings are taxed when you make a withdraw. When you're ready to take your money out, you'll have a few options. You can convert it into a guaranteed, lifelong income annuity, or you can take your money in one lump sum. Find out more about the different types of annuities.
Variable annuities are considered investments. Fixed annuities are not. With a variable annuity, you can choose where your premiums are invested. Your annuity's rate of return is based on the performance of those investments. Variable annuity rates aren't guaranteed. But they have the potential for higher returns than a fixed annuity. Variable annuities, on the other hand, might go down in value, but fixed annuities will not. Find out more about annuities as investments.
Fixed and variable annuities are the two ends of a spectrum. There are other types of annuities that fall in between and include features of both fixed and variable annuities. An indexed annuity is one of them. It has the potential for growth, like a variable annuity. It also has a guaranteed minimum rate of return, like a fixed annuity. However, there are some drawbacks like longer surrender periods and less true market participation.
Fixed annuities often have higher minimum premiums and are generally funded with a single payment. Variable annuities generally have lower premiums and can be funded with either a single payment or ongoing contributions. The actual dollar amount you pay depends on your personal goals and situation.
Get matched with a financial advisor in four easy steps.
Meet your goals with the right type of annuity.
Compare life insurance products
Benefits
Fixed Annuity
Variable Annuity
Option to convert to an income plan at retirement to receive income payments for life
A guaranteed death benefit following the death of the owner of the annuity*
Tax-deferred growth
Multiple investment sub-account options that are managed by dedicated and experienced professionals**
Variable investments that can provide the potential to keep pace with inflation***
Tax-free, cost-free transfers of assets between available investment sub-accounts****
*Variable Annuities are sold by prospectus only. Clients should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, expenses and charges of the investment company before they invest. A Northwestern Mutual Investment Services Registered Representative can provide clients with a contract and sub-account prospectus that will contain the information noted above and other important information that clients should read carefully before they invest or send money.**The performance of variable sub-accounts is not guaranteed, and variable annuities are subject to market risk, including loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against a loss.***Variable annuities are subject to fees and charges, such as mortality and expense charges, annual contract fees, sales charges, and portfolio expense fees associated with the underlying investment options.****Please refer to the Prospectus for details of all fees and charges.
Make a plan for tomorrow today.
Research shows that people are the happiest when they know how much they can safely spend month to month.3 A fixed or variable annuity can help by giving you the chance to grow your savings for retirement. Find out more about how a fixed or variable annuity can fit into your comprehensive financial plan. Your Northwestern Mutual advisor will work with you on a retirement plan specifically tailored to your goals.