Those considering annuities typically have plenty of questions about their potential purchase. In particular, retirees and those nearing retirement age are concerned about several possible scenarios. They need to ensure that they don't outlive their money. They want the benefit of possible upside potential from involvement in the stock market, but they want to be protected from the volatility inherent in that type of investment. These individuals also want to know what's involved in their annuity agreement.
Craig W. Lemoine, CFP, and Jarrett L. Davis, professor of financial planning technology at The American College in Bryn Mawr, Penn., outlined the seven questions individuals should ask before buying into an annuity in a recent article in Forbes. Savvy agents and brokers who can respond to these questions can provide information that will help put their annuity-considering clients' minds at ease about an annuity contract.
Following are Davis and Lemoine's take on the questions individuals need to ask themselves before an annuity purchase. These are also the questions clients will ask agents and brokers—and the responses you'll need to educate and inform customers.
1. Will the insurance company selling me the annuity be able to make good on its promises?
Individuals rely heavily on insurer credit ratings, so it's essential to come armed with the credit rating of companies whose annuities you sell. Organizations that rate insurance companies include AM Best, Fitch, Moody's and Standard and Poor's. Know the ratings of each before beginning a conversation on annuities with a customer.
2. How much will this contract cost annually, including all expenses?
In general, the more comprehensive the contract guarantees, the more costly the contract. Various annuity types and contracts might come with additional fees, including an administrative fee that covers reporting, online security and account access; mortality and expense fees that provide insurance death benefits if the individual passes away; and feed for any optional benefits like guaranteed minimum returns. It's essential that brokers understand and can communicate to customers the amount of and purpose of each fee.
3. What will the contract value be in one year if the market increases, falls or stays flat?
The answer to this question isn't very straightforward, since contract value can be difficult to calculate. However, it's essential to give customers a realistic idea of how their investment will grow or change over time. Remember to consider all fees when projecting annuity value.
