Fixed Indexed Annuities

Fixed Indexed Annuities

Guaranteed Income that you can't outlive

Here's the thing most people don't realize about retirement: the hardest part isn't saving the money. It's figuring out how to turn those savings into reliable income that lasts as long as you do.

That's where fixed indexed annuities come in.

What Is a Fixed Indexed Annuity?

It's a financial vehicle that takes a portion of your retirement savings and converts it into guaranteed lifetime income. No matter how long you (or your spouse!) live, no matter what the stock market does, your paycheck keeps coming. Best of all, it grows with the market, but it doesn't allow for any losses due to the market.

How Does It Work?

The Simple Version: You put money into a fixed indexed annuity, and it does two things:

1. Protects your principal - Your money is safe from market crashes

2. Grows with market gains - When the market goes up, you get a portion of those gains (up to a cap)

When you're ready to retire, you turn on the income. From that point forward, you get a check every month for the rest of your life. It's that straightforward.

The Real Benefits

Guaranteed Lifetime Income: You can't outlive this paycheck. Whether you live to 85 or 105, the income keeps coming. That's the peace of mind most retirees are looking for.

Market Protection When Stocks Crash: When the market drops, your money doesn't. You're protected from losses while still having the opportunity to grow when times are good.

Keeps Up With Inflation: Some fixed indexed annuities offer income riders that will increase your paycheck over time, helping you maintain purchasing power as costs go up.

Tax-Deferred Growth: Your money grows without being taxed until you withdraw it, which can help your savings work more efficiently.

Who Is This Right For?

Fixed indexed annuities make sense if you:

• Want guaranteed income you can't outlive

• Are worried about running out of money in retirement

• Need to protect a portion of your savings from market risk

• Want to create a "pension-like" paycheck in retirement

• Are 5-10 years from retirement (or already retired)

  
  

Who Might Want Something Different?

This might not be the best fit if you:

• Need immediate access to all your money

• Are very young (under 50) with decades until retirement

• Want to take maximum market risk for potentially higher returns

• Already have plenty of guaranteed income from pensions or Social Security

Common Questions I Get

"Aren't annuities expensive?"

Some can be. That's why I focus on finding products with low or no fees that still deliver strong guarantees. We look at the numbers together, and if the fees don't make sense, I'll tell you.

"What if I need access to my money?"

Most fixed indexed annuities let you access a portion (typically 10%) each year without penalty. We make sure your liquidity needs are covered before committing any money.

"What happens to my money when I die?"

Any remaining value goes to your beneficiaries. We can also structure it so your spouse continues receiving income for their lifetime.

"How much of my savings should go into an annuity?"

That depends on your situation. Typically, I recommend covering your essential expenses (housing, food, healthcare) with guaranteed income, and keeping the rest flexible so you can use it to enjoy retirement and cover any emergencies that may arise.

Here's How We Figure This Out

Step 1: We talk about your retirement income needs and how much guaranteed income you already have (Social Security, pensions, etc.)

Step 2: I show you exactly how much lifetime income you could create from your current savings, using real numbers from real insurance companies.

Step 3: You decide if the guaranteed income is worth it for your situation. No pressure, no rush.

Most folks tell me they wish they'd understood this option years ago. It's not complicated once someone explains it in plain English.

Questions about fixed indexed annuities?

Let's have a conversation about whether this makes sense for your retirement plan.

Call: (478) 330-3331

Email: kit@crossroadsfin.com

Serving Perry, Warner Robins, Macon, and Central Georgia