Variable annuities are a distinctive financial product that blends insurance and investment elements. They offer a unique opportunity for those looking to grow their wealth through market participation while planning for retirement. This guide delves deep into the mechanics of variable annuities, their benefits, risks, and considerations you should keep in mind before purchasing one.
Understanding Variable Annuities
Variable annuities are contracts issued by insurance companies. They offer periodic payments for a specified period or for the life of the annuitant. The main feature that sets them apart from other annuities is the investment component during the accumulation phase.
Accumulation Period: During this phase, your premium payments are allocated to a separate account within the insurance company. Unlike the insurer’s general account, this separate account is dedicated to your investment choices and is subject to market fluctuations.
Investment Choices: You have the flexibility to choose how your premiums are invested.
The options generally include:
- Stocks: High-risk, high-reward investments that can offer substantial returns but come with significant volatility.
- Bonds: These provide more stable returns and are less risky than stocks, but the potential for growth is also lower.
- Mutual Funds: Diversified portfolios that can include a mix of stocks, bonds, and other securities.
- Fixed Accounts: These provide a minimum guaranteed interest rate, offering a safer, more predictable option.
The Role of Market Risk
A defining characteristic of variable annuities is their exposure to market risk. The value of your investments can rise or fall based on market performance. This means that both your principal and the interest credits can fluctuate. Here’s how it works:
- Potential for Growth: If the markets perform well, your account value can grow significantly.
- Downside Risk: Conversely, if the markets perform poorly, your account value can decrease. This risk is in contrast to fixed annuities, which provide guaranteed returns.
Minimum Guarantees and Annuity Riders
To mitigate some of the risks associated with variable annuities, insurance companies offer optional riders that provide certain guarantees. These riders can help protect against market downturns and offer peace of mind. Common riders include:
- Guaranteed Minimum Income Benefit (GMIB): Ensures a minimum level of income regardless of market performance.
- Guaranteed Minimum Accumulation Benefit (GMAB): Guarantees a minimum account value after a specified period.
- Guaranteed Minimum Withdrawal Benefit (GMWB): Guarantees a minimum amount that can be withdrawn annually, irrespective of market conditions.
- Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit (GLWB): Provides a lifetime income stream, ensuring you don’t outlive your money.
While these riders offer valuable protection, they come at an additional cost. It’s crucial to understand the terms, benefits, and fees associated with each rider before adding them to your annuity contract.
Fees and Expenses
Variable annuities come with various fees and charges that can impact your returns. Here are some common fees to be aware of:
- Mortality and Expense Risk Charge: This fee compensates the insurance company for the risks it assumes under the contract. It typically ranges from 1% to 1.25% of your account value annually.
- Administrative Fees: These cover the administrative costs of managing your annuity and can be a flat fee or a percentage of your account value.
- Investment Management Fees: Each investment option within your annuity has its own management fees, similar to those of mutual funds. These fees can vary widely based on the investments chosen.
- Surrender Charges: If you withdraw money from your annuity before a certain period, you may be subject to surrender charges. These charges can be substantial, especially in the early years of the contract.
It’s essential to carefully review the prospectus and understand all the fees associated with a variable annuity. High fees can significantly erode your investment returns over time.
Tax Implications
Variable annuities offer tax-deferred growth, which means you don’t pay taxes on earnings until you withdraw the money. This can be a significant advantage as it allows your investments to grow without being reduced by taxes. However, there are important tax considerations to keep in mind:
- Ordinary Income Tax: Withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income rather than capital gains. This can result in a higher tax rate on your earnings.
- Early Withdrawal Penalties: If you withdraw money before age 59½, you may be subject to a 10% early withdrawal penalty in addition to regular income taxes.
- Non-Qualified Annuities: If you purchase a variable annuity with after-tax dollars (non-qualified annuity), only the earnings are taxable upon withdrawal. Your initial investment, known as the principal, is not taxed again.
Suitability and Considerations
Variable annuities are not suitable for everyone. Here are some factors to consider before purchasing one:
- Risk Tolerance: Assess your comfort level with market risk. If you are risk-averse, the fluctuations in account value may not be suitable for you.
- Investment Horizon: Variable annuities are generally more appropriate for long-term investments. Consider whether you can commit your money for a significant period.
- Financial Goals: Ensure that the variable annuity aligns with your overall retirement and investment goals. Are you looking for growth potential, income guarantees, or a combination of both?
- Fees and Expenses: Be aware of the total cost of the annuity and how it impacts your returns. Higher fees can diminish the benefits of tax-deferred growth.
Working with a Financial Professional
Given the complexity of variable annuities, it’s advisable to work with a qualified financial professional who can help you navigate the options and make informed decisions. A financial advisor can:
- Evaluate Your Needs: Assess your financial situation and goals to determine if a variable annuity is appropriate for you.
- Explain Features and Costs: Help you understand the features, benefits, and costs of different variable annuities and riders.
- Monitor Your Investments: Assist with managing and adjusting your investment allocations based on market conditions and your changing needs.
Alternatives to Variable Annuities
If the risks and costs associated with variable annuities are a concern, you might consider other types of annuities that offer more stability and guarantees:
- Fixed Annuities: Provide guaranteed interest rates and a predictable income stream. They are ideal for those who prefer safety and stability.
- Fixed Indexed Annuities: Offer returns linked to a market index, with a guarantee that your principal will not decrease. These provide a balance between growth potential and protection.
In conclusion, variable annuities can be a powerful tool for retirement planning, offering the potential for higher returns through market participation. However, they come with significant risks and costs that need to be carefully evaluated. By understanding how variable annuities work, assessing your financial goals and risk tolerance, and working with a qualified financial professional, you can determine if a variable annuity is the right choice for your retirement strategy.
If you’re seeking tailored guidance, consider consulting a financial professional. Visit our “Find a Financial Professional” section to connect directly. For a personal referral to an independent, licensed advisor, call us at 877.476.9723 or contact us here to book your first appointment.
🧑‍💼Authored by Brent Meyer, founder and president of SafeMoney.com, with over 20 years of experience in retirement planning and annuities. Learn more about my extensive background and expertise here
