---
title: "Annuities and retirement income | Topflight"
description: "How fixed, fixed indexed and immediate annuities turn savings into guaranteed income, who they fit, and how a licensed Topflight agent helps at no cost to you."
url: https://topflightagent-demo-v3.pages.dev/annuities
dateModified: 2026-10-06
---

# Annuities and retirement income

For clients

An annuity is a contract with an insurance company that turns a lump sum or a series of payments into income you cannot outlive. A Topflight agent explains the types in plain language and shops the carriers for you.

The options

## Fixed, indexed and immediate

- ◆**Fixed annuities** pay a guaranteed interest rate for a set term. Principal is protected by the carrier.
- ◆**Fixed indexed annuities** credit interest tied to a market index with a floor, so a down year does not reduce your principal, and most offer an income rider for guaranteed lifetime payments.
- ◆**Immediate annuities** start paying within a year, for people who want income now.
- ◆**Deferred annuities** grow tax-deferred and begin income later, often at retirement.
Who they fit

## Questions to ask before you buy

- ◆How much of my retirement income do I want guaranteed, no matter what the market does?
- ◆When do I need the income to start, and for how long: my lifetime, or both spouses’?
- ◆What is the surrender period, and will I need this money sooner?
- ◆How does this fit with Social Security, a pension, Medicare costs and the rest of my savings?
How we help

## What a Topflight agent does for you

- ◆Explains each product type and its guarantees in plain language, including surrender charges and rider fees.
- ◆Compares carriers and their financial strength ratings before you commit.
- ◆Coordinates the annuity with your Medicare and life insurance decisions.
- ◆Costs you nothing. Agents are paid by the insurance carrier.

## Talk to a Topflight agent

Free consultation. No pressure. Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST.

Ask about annuities
Call (470) 610-5710
Are you an insurance agent? Annuity contracting is available through Topflight. [Carrier contracting](https://topflightagent-demo-v3.pages.dev/agent-contracting) or ask the [Care Team](https://topflightagent-demo-v3.pages.dev/support-hub#get-help).

Frequently asked

## Questions clients ask

**What is an annuity?**

**Can I lose money in a fixed indexed annuity?**

**Does it cost anything to talk to a Topflight agent about annuities?**

Last reviewed: October 6, 2026 · Reviewed by Joanna Wyckoff, Founder. Published by the Topflight Data Desk.