Blog Layout

Can you talk about Retirement - but not about this subject?

Darryl Rosen • Jan 22, 2024

If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound? 

Here’s another question. If you talk about retirement planning and don’t mention annuities, did you talk about retirement?

Look, when it comes to discussing retirement planning, one topic that often sparks mixed reactions is uttering the word annuity.. The mere mention of the word can sometimes evoke a sense of apprehension or skepticism. It’s like you’ve uttered a 4 letter word; even though there are actually 7 letters in the word annuity. Ha ha. Despite my attempt at levity, this is an important point. Annuities are a fundamental component of retirement planning that cannot be ignored.

Recently, a guy asked me if I was gonna be peddling annuities while reaching my retirement class. My first reaction was - OUCH! But then I laughed a little. I don’t promote anything when I teach; however annuities are an essential part of retirement education. It’s actually impossible to explore retirement planning without addressing them.  

Kiplinger recently tackled this topic by presenting both the advantages and potential drawbacks. The article pointed out the costs and complexities associated with annuities and urged individuals to approach them with caution. ABSOLUTELY. However, it also highlighted the benefits, such as tax-deferred growth, the increased diversification that comes from offloading some longevity risk to an insurance company, and the promise of dependable income streams.

The importance of income was underscored by a study conducted by Blackrock, the large asset manager and a company that does not even sell annuities. Their study revealed that incorporating guaranteed income from annuities, in combination with strategic decisions regarding Social Security and how your money is invested - can lead to greater financial security in retirement.

Maybe they are for you; maybe not, but annuities, when approached thoughtfully and used correctly, can play a valuable role in creating safety, simplicity and financial strength in retirement. 

You might also like

By Darryl Rosen 19 Mar, 2024
When your spouse dies. 63% of the time when a spouse dies, it’s the man. According to the NIH, when this happens, on average the widow (or the wife) lives another 12 years. 3 things happen in short order when someone dies. Income decreases by as much as 50% with the possible loss of social security and pension. Taxes increase the following year because single tax rates are more punishing than married rates. If the deceased had an IRA or 401K, the widow still has to take Required min distributions but now at higher tax rates. Expenses go down but not by as much as you think. Only 20% on average per the Government Accountability Office. Think about it this way. Variable costs like medical and food, etc. will decrease but what about fixed expenses. My FIL passed in December. Jill’s Mom still has the house to contend with. All of this is to say please build these types of scenarios into your plans. If you have questions, feel free schedule some time to speak with me.
By Darryl Rosen 07 Mar, 2024
Are you looking for a reliable source of income in retirement? Annuities may be the answer! Watch this video to learn how annuities can provide guaranteed income and simplify your retirement plan. Say goodbye to financial worry and hello to a comfortable retirement!
By Darryl Rosen 02 Mar, 2024
Are past financial slip-ups haunting your investment decisions? You're not alone. In this insightful video, @erinkennedytv and Darryl delve into expert advice on navigating investment and financial choices after making mistakes. From acknowledging past blunders to crafting a brighter financial future, discover actionable strategies to thrive in your retirement journey.
More Posts

Contact us

Share by: