Annuities

Annuities can create guarantees that investments alone do not provide — but every guarantee comes with trade-offs. We explain the contract, the costs, the access limits, and what is not guaranteed before we recommend anything.

What an annuity may help with

Depending on the contract, an annuity may help create predictable retirement income, protect principal from direct market losses, or provide income that cannot be outlived. It is not automatically the right solution, and it should never replace money you may need for near-term expenses or emergencies.

The types we review

Fixed annuities

A fixed annuity offers a stated interest rate for a defined period.

Fixed indexed annuities

A fixed indexed annuity credits interest using a market index formula without directly investing your money in that index.

Income annuities

An income annuity is designed primarily to turn a lump sum into scheduled payments.

Existing annuity reviews

We review existing contracts so you can understand what you own before considering any change.

The Browning Two-Column Review

Every illustration has two stories: what the insurer contractually guarantees and what depends on assumptions, index performance, caps, participation rates, spreads, or other moving parts. We show those columns side by side and explain both in plain language.

Trade-offs you should understand

Annuities can involve surrender charges, limits on withdrawals, tax consequences, rider fees, caps or participation rates, and reduced liquidity. Guarantees depend on the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Product terms and availability vary by carrier and state.

When we may not recommend one

An annuity may not fit if you need ready access to most of your money, have not set aside adequate emergency funds, do not understand the surrender period, or already have enough guaranteed income. Sometimes the right recommendation is to keep what you have or do nothing.

Start with a review, not a sales pitch

Bring an existing statement or illustration, or simply bring your questions. We will help you understand the guarantees, the projections, the liquidity rules, and the alternatives. There is no cost, no obligation, and no pressure to decide in the first meeting.