You’re viewing the Financial Professional site

Annuities: One of the Biggest Retirement Blind Spots

Annuities remain one of the least understood retirement tools among U.S. consumers—even as longevity risk and market volatility dominate financial conversations.

Research shows that financial literacy is lowest when it comes to understanding risk1, which may help explain why so many people overlook products designed to help manage it.

In fact, only 5% of adults say they understand how annuities work and that they can be beneficial at any age.2 That lack of understanding creates a major retirement blind spot—and a clear opportunity for financial professionals to close the education gap.

5 percent of adults understand how annuities work

April is Financial Literacy Month, making it an ideal time to focus on improving client awareness and confidence around retirement income strategies.

couple
Arrow-Art

Why Education Matters When It Comes to Annuities

When clients don’t understand how annuities work, they’re far less likely to evaluate them objectively—or consider how protected income might fit into a broader retirement strategy. That uncertainty can delay decisions, limit diversification, and leave risks unaddressed. Proactive education helps surface those blind spots early, giving clients the clarity they need to make informed choices and positioning financial professionals as trusted, long-term partners in retirement planning.
Arrow-Art

How can financial professionals educate clients about annuities?

We’ve rounded up five educational resources designed to broaden annuity knowledge and support more productive retirement conversations.

Power to Grow with a Fixed Indexed Annuity

Share simple explanations for how a fixed indexed annuity can help clients pursue their financial goals—even during periods of economic uncertainty.

Overcoming a Retirement Savings Shortfall

Use this case study, focused on the unique challenges women face in retirement planning, to highlight how guaranteed income products can help clients feel more secure about their financial future.

Why Cash Isn’t King

Help facilitate conversations with female clients about the risks of holding too much in cash—particularly during inflationary periods—and why “safe” doesn’t always mean protected.

Ride the Wave: Building Trust in Any Market

Access a collection of resources designed to help guide clients through market shifts as they plan for retirement.

Put These Annuity Resources to Work

Put these resources to work this month — and beyond — and help clients feel more informed, empowered, and confident about their retirement savings strategies.

For assistance, reach out to our sales desk at 800-535-8110.

Related Posts