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Annuities in Florida – Building Retirement Income You Can Count On

A steady income in retirement isn’t just a comfort—it’s peace of mind. Annuities offer Florida residents a way to grow money without market risk, create guaranteed income, and protect their nest egg from economic uncertainty. Whether you’re in Winter Park, Orlando, or anywhere in Central Florida, our local team can help you understand how annuities work and whether they’re a smart fit for your financial future.

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Annuity Basics

What is an Annuity?

An annuity is a contract with an insurance company that can turn your savings into a predictable stream of income—similar to creating your own pension. You can fund an annuity with a lump sum (like rolling over a 401(k) or IRA) or with periodic contributions. In return, the insurance company provides guarantees—such as fixed growth or lifetime income—depending on the type of annuity you choose.


For fixed products, the insurer—not you—bears the investment risk. That means your principal is protected and your return is guaranteed by the issuing company.

Annuity Types: Fixed, Indexed, Immediate

We help clients choose from several safe-money annuity options:

01

Fixed Annuities

Work like a bank CD alternative, offering a set interest rate for a set term (often 3–10 years). Your principal and interest are guaranteed.

02

Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs)

Link interest to a stock market index like the S&P 500, with no downside risk. When the index goes up, you earn a portion of the gain; when it goes down, your credited interest is never negative. Often used for retirement accumulation and can include income riders.

03

Immediate Annuities 

Turn a lump sum into guaranteed income that starts within 12 months—ideal for retirees who want an instant pension.

04

Deferred Income Annuities

Set up now, income starts later (often years down the road), providing a future paycheck for life.

We typically focus on fixed and indexed annuities because they avoid market volatility, but we’ll explain other options if they make sense for your plan.

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Annuity Benefits

Benefits of Annuities

  • Guaranteed Lifetime Income – Never worry about outliving your savings.

  • Tax-Deferred Growth – Earnings compound without current taxes until you withdraw.

  • Principal Protection – Your initial investment is shielded from market losses in fixed and indexed annuities.

  • Probate-Free Transfer – Remaining funds often go directly to beneficiaries without probate.

  • Custom Options – Some annuities offer riders for long-term care, inflation protection, or enhanced payouts if you become seriously ill.

Considerations & Liquidity

Annuities are designed for long-term goals, so they’re not meant for money you’ll need right away. Most contracts have surrender periods (often 5–10 years) with penalties for early withdrawals above the free-withdrawal limit (commonly 10% annually).


Other points to know:



  • Withdrawals before age 59½ may face a 10% IRS penalty.

  • Fixed and indexed annuities typically have no ongoing management fees unless you add optional riders.

  • Variable annuities, which we don’t typically recommend for risk-averse clients, involve higher fees and market exposure.

We’ll explain the fine print so you can make an informed decision.

Annuity Fit

Is an Annuity Right for You?

An annuity may be a good fit if you:

  • Are nearing retirement and want guaranteed income

  • Want better returns than a CD without risking your principal

  • Need a predictable “paycheck” to supplement Social Security or a pension

  • Want to protect part of your 401(k) or IRA rollover from market losses

If you need full liquidity or short-term access to all your funds, an annuity might not be the right tool for that portion of your savings.

Annuity Guidance

Our Annuity Services

At Living Tree Life & Health Options, we work with multiple top-rated carriers to compare rates, terms, and features—so you get the best fit for your retirement goals. We’ll:



  • Explain annuity types in plain language

  • Compare multi-year guaranteed rates and income rider options

  • Show how an annuity fits with your overall plan, alongside other income sources and insurance coverage
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Frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked Questions – Annuities

  • Are annuities safe?

    Fixed and fixed indexed annuities protect your principal from market losses. Your guarantees are backed by the issuing insurance company.

  • Can I lose money in a fixed or indexed annuity?

    No—your principal is protected in these products, as long as you follow contract terms.

  • What’s the difference between fixed and indexed annuities?

    Fixed annuities have a set interest rate; indexed annuities tie interest to a market index for potentially higher returns.

  • When can I start income from an annuity?

    Immediate annuities pay within a year. Deferred annuities let you choose when to start income—now or years later.

  • Can I cash out my annuity early?

    You can, but withdrawals beyond the free-withdrawal limit during the surrender period may incur charges.

Plan Your Secure Retirement Income

Secure Retirement

A well-chosen annuity can bring stability to your retirement years. Whether you’re looking for guaranteed lifetime income or a safe, tax-deferred way to grow your savings, we’ll help you evaluate your options.


Call (321) 214-4594 or contact us today for your free, no-obligation annuity consultation.

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