Accumulating assets for retirement both safely and competitively can be challenging. Fixed annuities combine three powerful features—tax-deferral, limited accessibility, and guarantees—to help you do just that.
They can be purchased with a single payment, or over time through a flexible series of payments.
Benefits of a Fixed Annuity
Both principal and interest earnings compound on a tax-deferred basis.*
A wide range of income options are available at maturity, including a guaranteed lifetime option.
Some contracts offer a flexible premium payment option.
No IRS mandated contribution limits (non-qualified funds only.)
At death, account values pass to your named beneficiary(s) free from the costs and delays of probate.
Access is available to a portion of your funds to meet emergencies or other income needs without contract penalties.
Guaranteed interest crediting (typically 1.5% to 3%) ensures growth, regardless of market conditions.
All guarantees subject to claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.
Elements to Consider
Most fixed annuities come with surrender penalties to discourage early withdrawal.
Withdrawals prior to age 59½ may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty.
Beneficiary(s) owe income taxes on any gain in the contract at death of the owner when the money is distributed; beneficiaries may elect to pay these taxes over a period of time if they select a payment option instead of a lump sum distribution.
All guarantees are made by the issuing insurance company and are based on the insurer's claims-paying ability.
* Withdrawals of earnings are subject ordinary income tax. In addition, a federal 10% penalty may apply to withdrawals taken prior to 59 ½ and surrender charges generally apply.
All products contained within this Web site may not be offered at a Wachovia branch.
Securities and Insurance Products: Not Insured by FDIC or any Federal Government Agency; May Lose Value; Not a Deposit of or Guaranteed by a Bank or any Bank Affiliate
Annuity products are offered through Wachovia Insurance Agency, Inc. a non-bank affiliate of Wachovia Corporation, and are underwritten by unaffiliated insurance companies.
Insurance products are offered through Wachovia Insurance Agency (WIA) and are underwritten by unaffiliated insurance companies. WIA is a separate non-bank affiliates of Wachovia Corporation.
Wachovia Securities is not a tax or legal advisor.