What Is an Annuity?

An annuity is a stable financial product that offers a secure and steady stream of payments over a set period, making it a cornerstone of retirement planning and a source of financial security.

While different types of annuities each have their nuances, they all operate under the same premise. Individuals or businesses make payments to an insurance company, either in a lump sum or in installments. In return, the insurance company distributes regular payments to the annuitant, starting either immediately or at a future date. Depending on the contract terms, these payments can last for a predetermined period or the annuitant's lifetime.

Understanding annuities and how they work is valuable for businesses managing global workforces, primarily when considering retirement benefits for employees across different countries. While annuities are more common in some markets than others, they represent one of many financial tools that help provide long-term financial security for employees.

Including annuities in a comprehensive benefits package may attract and retain top talent in competitive international markets.

Types of annuities

Annuities come in different forms, each designed to fit specific financial goals. Here’s a quick breakdown of the four main types:

Fixed annuities

These offer a guaranteed return for a set period. The insurance company promises to pay a fixed interest rate no matter what happens in the market. Fixed annuities are great for those looking for stability, especially for those who want to protect their savings as they near retirement.

Immediate annuities

With an immediate annuity, annuitants make a one-time payment and start getting regular income right away or within 12 months. It’s a good option for retirees who want a steady income stream. Depending on the contract, payments can last for a set number of years or the remainder of the annuitant’s life, depending on the contract.

Variable annuities

Variable annuities allow for higher returns as they’re investable toward a mix of sub-accounts, similar to mutual funds. However, it's important to note that higher returns typically yield higher risks and fees than fixed annuities.

Deferred annuities

Deferred annuities are designed for future savings. Policyholders can either pay a lump sum or make regular contributions, allowing their money to grow over time before payments begin. The policyholder determines when to start receiving income and whether the growth of their savings is fixed or variable.

Each type of annuity has its advantages and disadvantages. It's crucial for individuals and businesses to consider long-term financial goals and risk tolerance before selecting an annuity.

How do annuities work?

Annuities are contracts between individuals or businesses and insurance companies designed to provide a steady income stream. The general process typically involves:

1. Purchase. The annuity is acquired through a lump sum payment or a series of smaller payments to the insurance company.

2. Accumulation phase. During this period, the invested money grows tax-deferred. For deferred annuities, this phase may last several years.

3. Investment. The insurance company invests the funds, potentially growing the initial investment through interest earnings.

4. Payout phase.  When income generation begins, the contract can be "annuitized," converting savings into regular payments.

5. Income stream. Payments are distributed based on the contract terms. Depending on the annuity type, these payments may last for a specific period or for the annuitant's lifetime.

6. Taxation. Payments usually comprise a mix of the original investment (generally not taxed) and earnings (typically taxed as regular income, subject to local regulations).

It's important to note that annuities often have "surrender periods," during which early withdrawals may incur penalties. Additionally, tax implications for early withdrawals vary by country. For example, in the U.S., withdrawals before age 59½ may incur a 10% federal tax penalty.

How annuities function depends on their type (fixed, variable, or indexed) and structure (immediate or deferred). Each type calculates returns and provides income differently, making it essential for individuals and businesses to understand the specifics of their contracts.

For businesses considering offering annuities as part of their employee benefits package, understanding these mechanics is crucial for making informed decisions and effectively communicating the benefits to employees.

Annuities and taxes

Understanding the tax implications of annuities is crucial for both businesses offering them as part of employee benefits packages and individuals receiving them. Here are key points to consider:

• Tax-deferred growth. Annuities typically grow tax-deferred, meaning taxes on interest, dividends, or gains are not due until withdrawals begin. This feature can enhance long-term savings growth through compounding.
• Taxation of withdrawals. The tax treatment of withdrawals depends on whether the annuity is qualified or non-qualified:
  • Qualified annuities. Funded with pre-tax dollars, withdrawals are fully taxed as regular income.
  • Non-qualified annuities. Funded with after-tax dollars, only earnings are taxed upon withdrawal.
• Early withdrawal considerations. Many jurisdictions impose penalties for early withdrawals. For example, in the United States, withdrawals before age 59½ may incur a 10% penalty on the taxable portion, in addition to regular income taxes.
• Exclusion ratio. For non-qualified annuities, the exclusion ratio determines the taxable portion of each payment, distinguishing between earnings and the original investment.
• Required minimum distributions (RMDs). Some countries have RMD rules for qualified annuities. In the U.S., these rules typically require withdrawals to begin at age 72 or 73, depending on the annuitant's birth year.
• Long-term care provisions. Some jurisdictions offer tax advantages for using annuity funds for long-term care expenses. Businesses should be aware of these provisions when structuring employee benefits.
• Inheritance considerations. The tax treatment of inherited annuities can vary based on the beneficiary's relationship to the annuitant and the annuity's structure.

For businesses offering annuities as part of their benefits package, it's crucial to understand these tax implications. These tools enable companies to structure their offerings effectively and provide clear guidance to employees.

Pros of annuities

Annuities offer benefits for both individuals planning for retirement and businesses looking to enhance their employee benefits packages:

For individuals:

• Guaranteed income. Annuities provide a steady income stream that can last for a set period or even for life, enhancing financial security in retirement.
• Tax-deferred growth. Investments in annuities grow tax-deferred, potentially leading to greater compound growth over time.
• No contribution limits. Unlike many retirement accounts, annuities typically don't have contribution caps, allowing for increased savings.
• Customization. Annuities can be tailored to fit specific needs, risk tolerance, and investment preferences.
• Protection from outliving savings. Annuities help protect against the risk of running out of money during retirement.
• Death benefits. Some annuities offer death benefits, making them useful for estate planning and leaving money to loved ones.
• Potential for higher returns. Variable annuities can offer investment options similar to mutual funds, allowing participation in market growth.

For businesses:

• Attractive benefits package. Offering annuities can help businesses attract and retain top talent by providing comprehensive retirement options.
• Reduced fiduciary responsibility. Compared to some other retirement plans, annuities can potentially reduce an employer's fiduciary burden.
• Flexibility in plan design. Businesses can customize annuity offerings to suit their workforce's needs and the company's budget.
• Tax advantages. In some jurisdictions, businesses may receive tax benefits for offering certain types of annuities to employees.
• Employee satisfaction. Providing robust retirement options can increase employee satisfaction and loyalty.
• Differentiation in the job market. A comprehensive benefits package including annuities can set a company apart from competitors.

These advantages make annuities a valuable consideration for both individuals planning their retirement and businesses aiming to enhance their employee benefits.

Cons of annuities

While annuities have their perks, there are some downsides to consider:

• Complexity. Annuity terms and structures can be intricate and challenging to understand.
• High fees. Many annuities come with hefty fees, including surrender charges for early withdrawals, potentially impacting overall returns.
• Limited liquidity. Accessing funds prematurely often incurs penalties, reducing financial flexibility.
• Investment risks. Variable annuities' payouts depend on investment performance, introducing uncertainty.
• Tax implications. Withdrawals are typically taxed as regular income, which may affect retirement fund calculations.
• Inflation concerns. Fixed annuities might not keep pace with inflation, potentially reducing purchasing power over time.
• Long-term commitment. Many annuities involve lengthy surrender periods, which may not suit all financial situations.

For businesses:

• Administrative complexity. Managing annuity programs can be resource-intensive, requiring specialized knowledge and systems.
• Cost considerations. Offering annuities as part of a benefits package can be expensive for employers.
• Fiduciary responsibility. While potentially reduced compared to some retirement plans, businesses still bear some fiduciary duty when offering annuities.
• Employee education needs. Comprehensive education programs are necessary to ensure employees understand and appropriately utilize annuity benefits.
• Potential for low participation. Due to complexity or misconceptions, employees may not fully engage with annuity offerings.
• Regulatory compliance. Staying compliant with evolving regulations around annuities can be challenging, especially for businesses operating in multiple jurisdictions.

Given these potential drawbacks, businesses must carefully evaluate the suitability of annuities for their specific circumstances, especially when dealing with a global workforce.

Alternatives to annuities

While annuities can provide a steady income in retirement, they aren’t the best fit for everyone. Here are some other options to consider:

• Certificates of Deposit (CDs). CDs offer a fixed interest rate for a set time and yield a predictable return. They’re low-risk but usually come with lower returns compared to other options.
• Bonds. These are like loaning money to a government or company in exchange for regular interest payments and a principal back at the end. Depending on the type, bonds can vary in risk and return.
• Retirement income funds. These mutual funds aim to provide steady income in retirement by investing in a mix of stocks and bonds, balancing growth and income.
• Dividend stocks. Some established companies pay regular dividends, offering a way to improve shareholder equity. Keep in mind—stocks can be riskier than other options.
• 401(k) plans. These employer-sponsored retirement accounts let employees save on a tax-deferred basis, often with matching contributions from the employer.
• Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). Traditional and Roth IRAs come with tax perks and provide flexibility in retirement investments.
• Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS). These government bonds adjust their value with inflation, helping protect money from losing value over time.

Additionally, some companies offer extra retirement benefits like stock grants or stock options, which can be valuable if the company does well. Employees might also have access to equity incentive plans, allowing them to buy company stock at a discount—another potential source of retirement savings.

Each of these alternatives has its own risks and benefits, so the best option depends on factors like financial health, risk tolerance, and retirement goals.

Annuities vs. life insurance

While insurance companies offer both annuities and life insurance, they serve different purposes and have distinct features:

Purpose

Annuities provide a steady income during retirement, helping individuals avoid the risk of outliving their savings. In contrast, life insurance offers financial support to beneficiaries in the event of the policyholder's death. 

Payout timing

Annuities typically start paying out during the policyholder's lifetime, often beginning at retirement. Life insurance benefits, on the other hand, are paid out to designated beneficiaries after the policyholder's death.

Payment structure

Annuities provide regular payments over time, often on a monthly basis. In contrast, life insurance generally provides a lump sum payment as a death benefit.

Beneficiaries

The primary beneficiary of an annuity is typically the policyholder (and sometimes their spouse). Life insurance benefits, however, are paid to designated beneficiaries, such as the policyholder's spouse, children, or other heirs.

Funding

People often fund annuities with a lump sum or a series of payments. To fund life insurance, individuals typically make regular premium payments.

Tax treatment

While both offer tax-deferred growth, how they’re taxed differs. Annuity payments are usually partially taxable, whereas life insurance death benefits are generally tax-free.

Risk protection

Annuities protect against the risk of running out of money during retirement. Life insurance, on the other hand, shields loved ones from the financial strain of a premature death.

Both products can be essential to a sound financial strategy. Annuities can provide financial stability in retirement, while life insurance can financially protect loved ones

Annuity FAQs

Read answers to common questions about annuities below.

Who can buy an annuity?

Anyone 18 or older can generally buy an annuity. However, most financial advisors suggest investing in an annuity closer to retirement, usually between 50 and 75 years old. Some insurance companies might set maximum age limits for certain annuities.

What is a non-qualified annuity?

A non-qualified annuity is purchased with after-tax dollars, meaning beneficiaries don’t get a tax break on the contributions. The earnings grow tax-deferred, so annuitants only pay taxes on the earnings when they withdraw them. Non-qualified annuities don’t have required minimum distribution rules.

What is annuity fraud?

Annuity fraud happens when insurance agents or companies deceive investors about annuity products or their suitability. This could involve misrepresenting the terms, hiding fees, or pushing products that aren’t a good fit. Most fraud cases involve "suitability" issues where crucial information isn’t fully disclosed.

What is the surrender period?

The surrender period is a set time during which annuitants can’t withdraw money from an annuity without facing a penalty. This period usually lasts several years, with the penalty decreasing over time. It’s meant to discourage early withdrawals and protect the insurance company’s interests.

Is an annuity an asset or income?

An annuity can be both. Before payments are received, it’s considered an asset. Once payments begin, it becomes a source of income. The classification can vary depending on the context and type of annuity.

Is an annuity a good investment?

Whether an annuity is a good investment depends on an individual’s or business’s unique situation and goals. Annuities can offer guaranteed income and tax-deferred growth, which can be helpful for some. However, they also come with fees and might not be as liquid. It’s important to carefully evaluate an entity’s financial situation and consult a financial advisor.

Does an annuity affect Social Security?

Generally, annuity income doesn’t impact your eligibility for Social Security retirement benefits or reduce the amount you receive. However, it could affect how much of your Social Security benefits are taxed by increasing your overall taxable income.

Can you cash out an annuity?

Yes, you can usually cash out a deferred annuity before it starts paying out, but you might face surrender charges, tax implications, and possible penalties if you’re under 59-½. Some annuities allow partial withdrawals without penalties. It’s important to understand the terms of your specific contract.

Who should not buy an annuity?

Younger individuals, typically under 50, with a long investment horizon might want to avoid annuities, as they could benefit more from market growth. Annuities might also be less suitable for those who need liquid assets, lack emergency funds, or are in poor health. Evaluating your financial situation and goals before buying an annuity is crucial.

Disclaimer: The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. © 2024 Velocity Global, LLC. All rights reserved.