An annuity is a contract between you and an insurance company. You contribute money — either as a lump sum or over time — and in return, the carrier provides growth, protection, or guaranteed income, depending on the type. Think of it as building your own private pension, on your terms.
Your premium grows — either at a fixed rate, linked to a market index, or through investment sub-accounts — with tax deferral on all gains.
Depending on the product, your principal is guaranteed, your gains are locked in annually, or both — insulating you from loss.
When you're ready, your annuity converts to guaranteed income — monthly, quarterly, or annually — for a defined period or the rest of your life.
Select a product to learn how it works, who it's for, and what it delivers.
A Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA) links your growth to a market index like the S&P 500 — so you participate when markets rise — while a built-in 0% floor means you never lose value in a down year. Gains are locked in annually.
| Feature | Fixed | Fixed Indexed | MYGA | DIA | SPIA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Market Exposure | None | Indexed (capped) | None | None | None |
| Downside Protection | 100% | 100% (0% floor) | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| Growth Potential | Fixed rate | Moderate-High | Fixed rate | N/A | N/A |
| Income Start | Deferred | Deferred / rider | At maturity | Future date | Immediate |
| Complexity | Low | Moderate | Low | Low | Low |
Enter your starting amount and see exactly how a Fixed Indexed Annuity (0% floor / 12% cap) would have grown from 2015–2024 — locking in every gain and sitting out every loss.
| Year | Market Return | Your Credit | Your Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | +1.38% | +1.38% | $253.4K |
| 2016 | +11.96% | +11.96% | $283.8K |
| 2017 | +21.83% | +12.00% | $317.8K |
| 2018 | -4.38% | 0% — Balance Protected | $317.8K |
| 2019 | +31.49% | +12.00% | $356.0K |
| 2020 | +18.40% | +12.00% | $398.7K |
| 2021 | -4.38% | 0% — Balance Protected | $398.7K |
| 2022 | +28.71% | +12.00% | $446.5K |
| 2023 | +26.29% | +12.00% | $500.1K |
| 2024 | -18.11% | 0% — Balance Protected | $500.1K |
Historical S&P 500 returns 2015–2024 used for illustration purposes only. FIA credits simulated using 0% floor and 12% annual participation cap. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Actual annuity performance varies by carrier, product, and index strategy. Not investment advice.
Estimated annualized returns based on historical index performance. Not a guarantee of future results. Hover to pause.
* Estimated returns are illustrative only and based on historical index backtesting. Actual performance will vary. Annuities are insurance products and not FDIC insured. Consult a licensed advisor before making any financial decisions.