Annuities
Market-linked growth with a guaranteed floor.
A fixed indexed annuity (FIA) ties your returns to a market index like the S&P 500 — but you never lose money when the market drops. It's a popular tool for business owners approaching retirement who want growth potential without the risk.
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At a Glance
Fixed Indexed Annuities — the essentials.
Returns
Linked to market index (e.g., S&P 500)
Downside Protection
0% floor — principal protected
Growth Cap
Varies by carrier (typically 6–12%)
Best For
Pre-retirees who want growth + safety
Who Is This For
Is fixed indexed annuities right for you?
- Business owners 50+ building retirement income outside the business
- Anyone who wants market participation without market losses
- People who have maxed out 401(k) and want additional tax-deferred growth
- Conservative investors who still want better returns than CDs or bonds
For Texas Business Owners
After years of reinvesting in your business, an FIA gives you a way to diversify into a guaranteed income stream. Many business owners use FIAs as part of their exit strategy — building retirement income that doesn't depend on selling the business.
Honest Assessment
When it works — and when it doesn't.
We're a fiduciary. That means we tell you when a product isn't right for you.
● When it makes sense
- You're within 10–15 years of retirement and want to protect gains
- You want guaranteed lifetime income in retirement
- You're uncomfortable with stock market volatility but want better than fixed rates
- You need to diversify away from having all your wealth in your business
● When it doesn't
- You're young and have decades to recover from market dips — invest aggressively
- You need liquidity — FIAs have surrender periods (typically 5–10 years)
- You want maximum growth potential with no caps
- You're already in a low tax bracket — the tax deferral has less value
Common Questions
What you're probably wondering.
How is a fixed indexed annuity different from a variable annuity? +
With an FIA, your money is not directly invested in the market — you earn interest based on index performance, with a 0% floor protecting your principal. A variable annuity is directly invested in sub-accounts (like mutual funds) and can lose value. FIAs trade upside cap for downside protection.
What are surrender charges? +
If you withdraw more than the free withdrawal amount (typically 10% per year) during the surrender period (5–10 years), you'll pay a penalty. The surrender charge decreases each year. We'll help you choose a surrender period that matches your timeline.
Can I get guaranteed lifetime income from an FIA? +
Yes — most FIAs offer an optional income rider that provides guaranteed lifetime income regardless of account value. This is one of the most powerful features for retirement planning. We'll compare riders across carriers to find the best fit.
Are annuity earnings taxed? +
Earnings grow tax-deferred. When you take withdrawals, earnings are taxed as ordinary income (not capital gains). If you annuitize, part of each payment is a tax-free return of principal. The tax deferral is especially valuable in high-earning years.
Industry Insights
See how this applies to your industry.
Ready to find the right fixed indexed annuities?
30-minute conversation. No pressure. We'll look at your specific situation and find the best option across 40+ carriers.