An annuity is a financial product that pays out regular income for a specific period or the life of the contract holder. It is a contract between an individual and an insurance company, which provides a guaranteed stream of income during retirement or any other period. An annuity can be an excellent tool for people who want to secure their financial future, especially during retirement, when they may have limited sources of income. In this article, we will discuss the various types of annuities and their benefits.

Types of Annuities

1. Fixed Annuities: A fixed annuity is a contract between an individual and an insurance company that guarantees a fixed interest rate for a specific period. The rate of interest is usually higher than that of a savings account or a CD. Fixed annuities are suitable for individuals who want to invest their money for a specific period, without worrying about market fluctuations.
2. Variable Annuities: A variable annuity is a contract between an individual and an insurance company that allows the individual to invest in different investment options, such as mutual funds, stocks, and bonds. The rate of return on a variable annuity depends on the performance of the underlying investments. Variable annuities are suitable for individuals who want to invest in the stock market, but also want the protection of an insurance policy.
3. Indexed Annuities: An indexed annuity is a contract between an individual and an insurance company that provides a return based on the performance of a stock market index, such as the S&P 500. Indexed annuities are suitable for individuals who want to participate in the stock market but want to limit their risk exposure.