Annuity

Make Retirement Safe Again™ for You & Your Family

Make retirement Safe Again

What It Means to Make Retirement Safe Again

In a world where markets are volatile, healthcare costs are rising, and traditional pensions are vanishing, “Make Retirement Safe Again” isn’t a political slogan—it’s a financial necessity.

Quick note: While this phrase might sound familiar, this article is not political. It’s about restoring peace of mind, protecting your hard-earned savings, and creating a retirement you can count on—regardless of your personal beliefs or affiliations.

By focusing on time-tested strategies like guaranteed income and financial protection, we can help you build a retirement plan that’s based on stability, not speculation.

The Problem: Retirement Security Has Eroded

Once upon a time, retiring meant receiving a pension check every month and sailing into the sunset. Today, fewer than 15% of private-sector workers have access to traditional pensions.

Instead, retirees face:

  • Market risk from 401(k)s and IRAs
  • Longevity risk (outliving their money)
  • Rising taxes and inflation
  • Healthcare and long-term care costs

The outcome? Uncertainty—and for many, fear.

To make retirement safe again, retirees need income they can’t outlive and protection from economic shocks. That’s where annuities and modern life insurance policies come in.

The Safe Money Solution: Income First, Risk Last

Annuities: Predictability You Can Count On

Annuities are retirement income tools issued by insurance companies that turn your savings into guaranteed, often lifetime, income.

Benefits of Annuities:

  • Lifetime income streams
  • Protection from market losses
  • Optional inflation protection
  • Tax-deferred growth
  • No probate hassles for beneficiaries

Types of Annuities:

  • Fixed Annuities: Safe, stable, guaranteed interest.
  • Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs): Track a market index, but never lose value due to market downturns.
  • Immediate Annuities: Turn your lump sum into income now.
  • Deferred Income Annuities: Create a guaranteed future income stream.

Annuities offer a level of certainty and simplicity that retirement accounts invested in the stock market often can’t.

Life Insurance: Not Just for Death—But for Retirement Life

Today’s permanent life insurance is more than a death benefit. It’s a retirement multiplier.

Indexed Universal Life (IUL) policies can:

  • Grow cash value based on a market index (with downside protection)
  • Offer tax-free income through policy loans in retirement
  • Include living benefits for long-term care or chronic illness
  • Provide estate planning benefits

Life insurance isn’t just about protecting others after you’re gone—it’s about protecting your retirement while you’re living.

“Make Retirement Safe Again”: A Movement for Peace of Mind

This isn’t a campaign slogan—it’s a call to take control.

It’s about:

  • Making guarantees part of your retirement plan
  • Choosing predictability over guesswork
  • Protecting your spouse and legacy

You wouldn’t build your dream home on shaky ground. Why build your retirement plan on an unstable market?

The Danger of Relying on Risk

Many pre-retirees believe the only path to a successful retirement is through stock market growth. But here’s the truth:

“Losses hurt more than gains help—especially in retirement.”

Sequence of returns risk—the danger of taking withdrawals in a down market—can devastate your portfolio. And when you’re no longer working, there’s no time to recover.

Safe retirement planning flips the script:

  • Income first.
  • Risk last.
  • Safety always.

The Political Climate and Retirement Planning

During the Trump administration, tax cuts and deregulation were positioned to benefit retirees and savers. Whether those changes helped or hurt your portfolio, one thing is clear: government policy is always changing.

That’s why your retirement plan shouldn’t rely on:

  • Who’s in office
  • What tax laws are passed next
  • What the Fed does next quarter

Instead, rely on what you can control:

  • How much guaranteed income you have
  • Whether your spouse is protected
  • Whether you’ll be taxed less or more in retirement
  • If your money will last as long as you do

Common Objections—Debunked

“Aren’t annuities restrictive?”
Not anymore. Many modern annuities offer liquidity options, flexible income choices, and even market-linked growth—without market risk.

“Isn’t life insurance only useful if I die early?”
Not true. Today’s permanent life insurance offers living benefits, tax-free retirement income, and long-term care protection.

“I already have a 401(k)—isn’t that enough?”
A 401(k) is a great start, but it’s not a complete plan. Without guaranteed income, you’re rolling the dice every year you withdraw.

How to Make Retirement Safe Again—Starting Today

Making your retirement safe again doesn’t require radical changes. It requires informed choices guided by a qualified, independent financial professional.

Here’s how to get started:

  • Evaluate your current plan. Is your income guaranteed? Are you exposed to unnecessary risk?
  • Learn about annuity and life insurance options. Discover what’s available and what fits your goals.
  • Talk to a trusted expert. An independent advisor can help design a safe retirement income strategy tailored to you.

Final Thoughts: Retirement Shouldn’t Be a Gamble

You worked your whole life to build your nest egg—don’t leave it exposed to chance.

Whether you resonate with the phrase “Make Retirement Safe Again” or not, the idea is universal: you deserve a retirement built on confidence, not concern.

With annuities, life insurance, and the right financial guidance, you can retire with clarity, stability, and peace of mind.

Ready to Make Your Retirement Safe Again?

For personalized financial advice, connect with a professional today. Visit our “Find a Financial Professional” section to get started. If you prefer a personal referral for your first appointment, call us at 877.476.9723 or contact us here to schedule a meeting with a trusted and licensed independent financial professional.

🧑‍💼 Authored by Brent Meyer, founder and president of SafeMoney.com. With over 20 years of experience in retirement planning and annuities, Brent is dedicated to helping you secure your financial future. Discover more about his extensive expertise here.

Disclaimer:
This article is for educational purposes only. SafeMoney.com is not affiliated with any political party or campaign. Annuities and life insurance products are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurer. Consult with a qualified financial professional before making any decisions.

Annuity Education: What to Know Before You Retire

Annuity Education

Planning for retirement can be overwhelming. Between social security decisions, healthcare concerns, and figuring out how to generate reliable income, it’s no wonder many Americans feel underprepared. One financial tool that often gets overlooked—or misunderstood—is the annuity. If you’re seeking annuity education, this comprehensive guide will help you cut through the confusion and determine whether an annuity might play a role in your retirement strategy.

What Is an Annuity?

At its core, an annuity is a financial product designed to provide a stream of income, often during retirement. You purchase an annuity contract—usually from an insurance company—either by making a lump-sum payment or a series of payments. In return, the insurer promises to pay you income either immediately or at a future date. Read More

How to Turn Your 401(k) Into a Lifetime Retirement Paycheck

A record number of Americans now have $1 million or more saved in their 401(k)s—a milestone many dream of when planning for retirement. But despite this achievement, most retirees face a critical challenge: How do you turn your 401(k) into a reliable income stream for life?

Saving for retirement is only half the equation—making your savings last is just as crucial. Many retirees unknowingly expose themselves to risks like market downturns, inflation, and outliving their money. That’s where a Fixed Index Annuity (FIA) can help, providing a guaranteed lifetime income stream and protection against volatility. Read More

401(k) vs. 403(b) vs. 457: Key Differences & Best Plan

Planning for retirement involves choosing the right savings plan, but the differences between 401(k) vs. 403(b) vs. 457 can be confusing. Whether you work in the private sector, a nonprofit, or a government job, understanding the pros and cons of these tax-advantaged accounts is crucial.

This guide provides a detailed 401(k) vs. 403(b) vs. 457 comparison, including investment options, employer matching, annuities, taxes, and contribution limits. If you’re wondering which plan is best for your retirement, this article will help you decide. Read More

Retirement Tax Planning: with Annuities & Life Insurance

Retirement tax planning is essential to ensuring financial security in your golden years. Without proper planning, taxes can eat into your savings, reducing the income you depend on. However, with smart strategies—such as leveraging annuities and life insurance—you can optimize your tax liability while ensuring a steady income stream for the rest of your life.

This guide will explore how to reduce taxes in retirement, maximize your income, and integrate tax-efficient financial tools like annuities and life insurance into your plan. Read More

Qualified Annuity: What It Means & Tax Implications

If a Retirement Plan or Annuity is Qualified, This Means…

When planning for retirement, understanding how your income sources will be taxed is crucial. One key concept to grasp is whether a retirement plan or annuity is qualified or non-qualified. These classifications directly impact how contributions, growth, and withdrawals are taxed—affecting your financial strategy both before and during retirement.

What Does “Qualified” Mean in Retirement Planning?

A qualified retirement plan or annuity meets specific requirements set by the IRS and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). These plans are typically tax-advantaged, meaning contributions are made pre-tax, investments grow tax-deferred, and distributions are taxed as ordinary income when withdrawn. Read More

Fixed Annuity Rates: What to Know in Today’s Economy

Fixed annuities have long been a popular choice for individuals seeking guaranteed income and predictable returns on their retirement savings. When you search for “fixed annuity rates,” it’s clear that interest in these secure investments is high, particularly as market volatility makes riskier investment vehicles less attractive. This article will explore what fixed annuities are, how their rates are determined, and what makes them a reliable choice in any economic environment. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision as you compare fixed annuity options and evaluate the best rates available.

What Are Fixed Annuities?

Fixed annuities are financial products offered by insurance companies that guarantee a specific rate of return over a set period. When you purchase a fixed annuity, you pay a lump sum (or series of payments) to an insurance company. In return, the company guarantees a fixed interest rate on your investment, typically over a term of 3, 5, or 10 years. The insurance provider also guarantees that you’ll receive a steady stream of income after the term ends or at the start of a designated payout period.

This fixed interest rate and predictable payout make fixed annuities a popular choice for individuals looking to protect their assets while still earning a return, regardless of market fluctuations. Read More

Shaquille O’Neal’s Strategy: Why Annuities Are Essential

The Shaquille O’Neal Approach: Why Annuities Should Be a Key Part of Your Financial Portfolio

When Shaquille O’Neal speaks about success, people listen. A basketball legend with four NBA championships and an enduring legacy, Shaq has made a name for himself not just on the court, but in the business world. As of 2024, his net worth is an astounding $500 million, and while many might assume that his wealth stems from high-profile endorsements, tech stocks, and brand partnerships, Shaq recently revealed the secret that has given him lasting financial security: annuities.

This financial tool, often misunderstood or overlooked by the general public, has been the bedrock of Shaq’s wealth management strategy. But what exactly are annuities, and why should they matter to you, even if you’re not worth millions? Shaq’s investment in annuities offers a lesson in financial stability and security, one that everyone—regardless of income—can benefit from. Here’s why annuities are a crucial component of any portfolio. Read More

Maximizing Retirement with a 1035 Exchange

Retirement planning often involves a delicate balance between securing long-term financial stability and maximizing tax efficiency. One lesser-known but powerful strategy that retirees can leverage is the 1035 exchange, a provision in the Internal Revenue Code (IRC). This tool allows for the exchange of one insurance product for another, offering tax advantages and flexibility in tailoring your financial future.

While SafeMoney.com provides an in-depth exploration of the mechanics of a 1035 exchange, this article delves further into additional considerations, strategies, and real-life applications to help you optimize your retirement plan.

What is a 1035 Exchange?

A 1035 exchange refers to the replacement of one life insurance policy, annuity, or endowment with a similar product, without triggering a taxable event. This provision is found under IRC Section 1035, allowing the transfer of gains from an old policy into a new one without the need to pay taxes on those gains at the time of the switch. This can be a powerful tool when upgrading to more favorable financial products that better align with your evolving retirement goals.

Types of 1035 Exchanges

Read More

Annuities & Life Insurance: Safety, Solvency, and Retirement

When it comes to financial security and retirement planning, life insurance and annuities play pivotal roles in ensuring long-term peace of mind. However, many individuals have concerns about these products, particularly regarding their safety, solvency, guarantees, and ability to provide the highest possible retirement income. This article will address these crucial concerns to help you make informed decisions.

1. Safety (Ratings)

One of the most important considerations when choosing a life insurance or annuity provider is the financial safety of the company offering these products. This safety is usually assessed through financial strength ratings provided by independent rating agencies. These agencies evaluate the company’s ability to meet its financial obligations, including paying out death benefits, annuity income, and other guaranteed payouts. Read More

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