One of the biggest risks in retirement is outliving your money. An annuity is a contract with an insurance company that converts a lump sum or a series of payments into a stream of guaranteed income — a way to create a personal “paycheck” that continues for a set period or for life. Annuities aren't right for everyone, and the product landscape is full of complexity and sales pressure. As an independent agency, Maru compares annuities across carriers and explains the trade-offs plainly, with no obligation.
Types of annuities
| Type | How it grows | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed annuity | Guaranteed set interest rate | Safety and predictable growth |
| Fixed-indexed annuity | Index-linked with a floor and a cap | Growth potential with downside protection |
| Immediate annuity | Converts a lump sum to income now | Income starting right away |
| Deferred annuity | Grows now, income later | Building future retirement income |
We concentrate on fixed and fixed-indexed annuities and immediate-income solutions. Variable annuities are securities that require separate licensing.
Guaranteed income you can't outlive
The feature that draws most people to annuities is lifetime income: in exchange for your premium, the insurer guarantees payments for as long as you live, no matter how markets perform or how long you live. That can complement Social Security and other savings to cover your essential expenses with certainty. We help you decide how much of your retirement savings, if any, belongs in an annuity — and how much should stay liquid for flexibility and emergencies.
What to weigh before buying
Annuities involve trade-offs worth understanding: surrender charges if you withdraw early, how and when income begins, inflation's effect on fixed payments, the insurer's financial strength, and the fees on more complex products. Because we're independent, we're not tied to one company's lineup — we compare guarantees, costs, and carrier ratings, and we'll tell you honestly when an annuity isn't the right fit for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
What is an annuity, in plain terms?
What's the difference between fixed and fixed-indexed annuities?
Are annuities safe?
Is an annuity right for me?
Licensed independent insurance agent · WA & FL
Written and reviewed by a licensed Maru advisor. Maru Insurance is an independent agency (License #22261820) representing multiple A-rated carriers across Washington and Florida.
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