Fixed annuity interest rates can often change in tandem with the rates paid on other fixed interest investments. However, whenever rates drop, the true return of fixed annuities rates could potentially be higher than other interest-paying assets. First of all, fixed deferred annuities rates typically provide a minimum rate of return for the term of the contract. For example, if you select an annuity that locks in current rates for five years (a multi-year guarantee annuity or MYGA), you will earn competitive annuities rates for the first five contract years. After that, you will receive no less than the minimum rate, regardless of how low market rates might possibly go. Second, annuities are tax-deferred investments. That means the earnings on your annuity’s principal will compound without you owing current taxes. Other fixed income investments, such as CDs, are taxed as interest is credited (of course, CDs are FDIC insured for up to $250,000 per account). Even if you reinvest the interest on a CD, you have to pay income tax. This reduces the effective rate of return on your taxable fixed interest investments. So even if annuities rates only equal CDs, you actual get more after the tax effect. Third, [...]
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