Learn what annuities are, how fixed, variable, indexed, immediate, and deferred annuities work, and how they can help provide steady retirement income.

A deferred annuity is a long-term contract with an insurance company that provides future income–often for life–in exchange for premium payments, with options like fixed, variable, and indexed types ...

As you approach retirement, one of the most important considerations is securing reliable income streams that will support you through the remainder of your life. Alongside Social Security, pensions, ...

We may receive commissions from some links to products on this page. Promotions are subject to availability and retailer terms. But while it's imperative to have a solid plan in place for your ...

As part of your retirement planning, you may have invested in a deferred annuity. And, hopefully, over the years you’ve enjoyed tax deferred growth in the contract. The annuity may be a fixed annuity, ...

Annuity laddering involves staggering the purchase of annuities over a period of time. A laddered annuity differs from a deferred annuity, which involves a single purchase but with payments deferred ...

Laurie Sepulveda is a MarketWatch Guides team senior writer who specializes in writing about personal loans, home equity loans, mortgages and banking. She lives in North Carolina and has taught and ...

Annuities are an integral part of the retirement portfolios of investors who want a guaranteed stream of retirement income. A deferred annuity is a contract that provides the buyer with a steady ...