A fixed annuity provides income that is guaranteed* to last as long as you need it, subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.
Benefits of a fixed annuity
Benefits of a fixed annuity include the following:
- Predictability – Fixed interest rates are guaranteed.
- Protection – Principal and interest are guaranteed if held for
the length of the guarantee period.
- Competitive Rates – Higher interest rates are available if
the initial premium falls within certain dollar amounts.
- Customization – Income streams can be distributed for life,
for a specific period of time (such as 10 or 20 years), or for the
life of you and your spouse.
Fixed annuities can be qualified or non-qualified. You own a qualified annuity if you purchased it with pre-tax dollars through an IRA or other qualified plan; you do not receive any additional tax advantages beyond that of the plan. You own a non-qualified annuity if you purchased it with after-tax dollars outside of an IRA or other qualified plan; income taxes are not collected until distributions are made.
Withdrawals
Withdrawals from your annuity first come from any contract gains and can reduce the death benefit, optional benefits and contract value. Taxable distributions are subject to ordinary income tax and, if made prior to age 59½, may also be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. Certain qualified retirement plans require that distributions begin by age 72 for individuals born on or after July 1, 1949, age 70½ for individuals born before that date (Required Minimum Distributions).
Annuitization
Fixed annuity money grows tax-deferred and is distributed in the payout phase – when the deferred investment is converted into an income stream, which is called annuitization. The amount of income you receive is based on several factors, including the value of your annuity, your age, and the type of annuity options you chose upon purchase.
*All guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.
Comments on taxation are based on John Hancock’s understanding of current tax law, which is subject to change. Please consult your own tax professional for guidelines specific to your situation.
Please contact your financial representative or call 1-800-344-1029 for more information, including product and fund prospectuses that contain complete details on investment objectives, risks, fees, charges, and expenses as well as other information about
John Hancock, the investment company, and product and underlying portfolios.
MLINY021914107