Retire with confidence
We investigate hundreds of annuities from top-rated insurance companies to find the best retirement annuity for you. Whether you want more income or growth without the risk of losses so you can retire with confidence, we can help.
We investigate annuities, so you can retire with confidence
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Hear from our clients
Rated Excellent
Rated 4.9 | Based on 412 Trustpilot reviews
I learned a lot about Annuity
I learned a lot about Annuity. Very informative. Thanks
- Anita
The agent was very respectful and
The agent was very respectful and knowledgeable regarding annuities. Since I had read Bank on Yourself by Pamela Yellen, it was easy to discuss the issues regarding annuities. There is a sense of security in listening to someone who knows what he is talking about void of ego.
- Mike
How do I increase my funds?
I started looking on line for a better interest rate than my bank. This was my first experience on line. It turned out beautiful. Sean was very knowledgeable and helpful. He knew his math and listened to what my needs were. He always gave several potions to choose from. Each was explained in great detail. The one I chose gave me an extended death benefit and an option if I became serious ill. I didn’t feel totally bound and not able to get my money. I was a little concerned since he didn’t have an office in my state or hometown. I have been with him for a year and am totally comfortable with my ability to talk to him when needed. This was money that was not needed in the near future yet I still could access it for a serious emergency. The entire plan seems to look out for all my worries. Sean spends the time with you! I am so lucky to have found this annuity. I did my due diligence an found this insurance company met my requirements. Sincerely, Rosemary J. Waldron
- Woody
The advisor you put me in touch with
The advisor you put me in touch with (Barb Halperin) was very knowledgeable and helpful. She answered all of my questions and offered me three attractive options. Unfortunately, due to restrictions on my existing 403(b) plan that prevent me from moving money out of it while I am still actively working, I am unable to take advantage of the annuity options she offered until I actually retire or leave my job. I definitely plan to reconnect with her when that happens.
- Paula
Very professional and very little
Very professional and very little pressure.
- John
Great experience
Great experience. Answered all my questions.
- Frank
Glad We turned to Annuity Gator !!
Darryl J. Stein was fantastic he went through several scenarios, to ensure we got the best product. We were looking to get extra income from the money we had in other accounts. The product he found for us beat other financial advisors literally by thousands of dollars, we were very pleased with Darryl from Annuity Gator and would recommend him to all our family and friends.
- Wayne
Very informative and helpful.
Very informative and helpful.
- Larry
Hi Casey
Hi, it was nice to talk business with Casey, he was able to explain about annuities and was clear about the various options that we have as we prepare for our future as retired folks. We hope that we can work with Casey going forward and develop a nice balanced plan. Thank you
- John
Michael K
Michael K. I exceptional! We appreciate his insight, advice, counsel, and perceptions!
- Michael
We couldn’t be more pleased!
Annuity Gator connected us with a real find, Sean Mason from Fresno Financial advisors. Sean is extremely knowledgeable, thoughtful and trustworthy, the exact type of professional we search for when it comes to consultants, from doctors to finance. Since we made contact with Sean via Annuity Gator a couple of months ago, we have established a wonderful working relationship with Sean and his great staff and completed several major transactions. We couldn’t be more pleased. Thank you, Annuity Gator.
- Barbara
I would like to let everyone know that
I would like to let everyone know that Sean Beckerman is the BEST!!!!! He is very knowledgeable and willing to explain what can be complicated in a way that I was able to understand. I have recommended Annuity Gator and Sean specifically to everyone I have spoken to regarding retirement. I am confident that Sean has created a plan specific to me based on the time he took to get to know me and help me fine tune my retirement goals. SEAN IS THE BEST!!!!!
- Jody
Great
Great, he was very good .
- Customer
Scott was very knowledgeable
Scott was very knowledgeable. It was a good first call.
- Gary
I was very pleased to get the insight I
I was very pleased to get the insight I needed from Ryan and appreciate his advice without any pressure whatsoever to purchase through him.
- DM
Good Customer Service
I was contacted by Bill Bieda, who did an excellent job of communicating with me by phone and email. Even though I had already lined up with another advisor, I was just checking the whole annuity idea out. He was helpful and willing to give advice.
- J.Perry
individualized service
Jeff was thorough and presented options objectively to suit my needs. There was never a pressure to sell, which I appreciated the most.
- Reddy
It was a pleasure working with the
It was a pleasure working with the advisor. The advisor provided adequate information to make a decision.
- Kishore
Brett Toomey is THE BEST AGENT EVER
Brett Toomey is the most informed, experienced financial advisor I’ve ever encountered! The online video by AG’s CEO drew me in as it’s info seemed straightforward, knowledgeable and sensible. But Brett Toomey captured my business (one Trad IRA based deferred/indexed annuity … about which I knew NOTHING until Brett explained it patiently til I DID understand it) and soon another annuity, deferred, non-IRA cash based. Because I trust Brett completely. He’s smart, likeable, has a sense of humor and seems to respect me even though I’m NOT a financial wiz!! I absolutely and completely recommend AnnuityGator, and Brett Toomey in particular. Connie B “)
- Connie
Selecting an Annuity that suits your needs
While exploring Annuities, I was contacted by Annuity Gator. I was provided pertinent advice that helped me choose an Annuity that fits my needs.
- Jay
Great info and helpful
Great info and helpful
- Rocky
I say that quickly as many things are
I say that quickly as many things are still in process. However, so far, explanations have been excellent as things are progressing as quickly paper/emails, with responses all take time
- Angelyn
James Ault is Excellent
James Ault, AnnuityGator Analyst, is a very honest and intelligent person who is very knowledgeable about investments, especially annuities. He is also very patient and takes the time to fully understand his customer and their goals. He also does an excellent job of explaining how the various annuities work and suggesting the best options for his customers.
- Jake
Helpful advice given
Helpful advice given, good information
- Wilson
Hello Annuity Gator
Hello Annuity Gator, I again would like to express my praise of agent Sean Sparkman in my dealings with him to secure my income stream annuity,he followed through 100% on what he initially told me about working hard and leaving no stone unturned to help me meet my goals. I had read into annuities online and in writings but didn’t realize how limited my understanding was, he showed me an avenue i didn’t know existed strategized ,knocked on every door and negotiated. two thumbs up ! Kyster Porter
- Kyster
Jason Siebert was excellent
Jason Siebert was excellent. Never rushed me, answered all my questions (many, more than once), responded promptly to emails… He is confident and has a superb knowledge of annuities.
- David
great experience
We worked with Cal Menzies at Annuity Gator. Cal was a pleasure to deal with and very informative and patient with all of our questions! We plan to continue to call on Cal for any future annuity needs. Highly recommended.
- Janet
Scott was very knowledgeable and
Scott was very knowledgeable and explain annuities where I could understand. It was very pleasant and helpful on the phone and I would recommend him.
- Bonnie
A great phone meeting.
Barb was helpful, honest, obviously loves the subject-matter, and is very personable to talk to.
- Chuck
Annuity Gator was extremely
Annuity Gator was extremely knowledgeable about my annuity question. Took the time to explain what the typical characteristics of my annuity were. Then they looked into the specifics of it and provided the information I needed to make a decision going forward. I was impressed with what a good experience my call to Annuity Gator was. I recommend them highly.
- Jim
Jerry Means did an excellent job
Jerry Means did an excellent job explaining annuities
- Dan
Lance Riddle worked with my wife and I
My wife and I have been working with Lance Riddle the past few months. He has been very responsive and professional. When we had questions and needed help he was quick to reply We felt very comfortable with his suggestions and recommendations. We ended up purchasing 5 different annuities while working with him.
- Kenneth
I was so fortunate to have had Scott
I was so fortunate to have had Scott Plamondon take me as his client. He is so knowledgeable and experienced in all aspects of financial planning not just annuities. He has guided me through an extremely tough situation for which I am eternally grateful.
- Patricia
I really like Sylvia
I really like Sylvia. My situation is complicated and feel confident that she will see me through all my options
- Donna
They were very professional and
They were very professional and organized. They explained things to me very well and provided me with a great deal of relevant information during the decision process.
- John
Barry is a great representative for
Barry is a great representative for your company. He is patient, knowledgeable, shows empathy and has been very professional.
- Jonathan
Pleasant and super efficient .
David was extremely helpful from start to finish. He explained and gave me time to think and ask questions . No rushing . Extremely personable. Did all the work for me . Keep me abreast of where we were in the process. I am very happy Mr David Smart was able to consolidate and set up an annuity that will meet my needs. I would definitely refer to Annuity Gator .
- Joan
I had Sean Sparkman as my annuity
I had Sean Sparkman as my annuity representative from Annuity Gator for several years. I would recommend him to any prospective clients for his excellent services. I am a very cautious person and would not make an annuity purchase decision without fully understanding. Sean was so patience to explain and gave me time to read, understand and ask questions and he had never been push ! Even after I purchased annuity from him for several years, we ve still kept communicating and exchange ideas. Whenever I wrote him emails he would reply instantly and answered all my enquirers ASAP, I must rate him as the top annuity representative!
- Victor
Very informative.
Very informative.
- Kim
Informational!!
Informational!!
- Chemist
I had many questions about Annuity’s
I had many questions about Annuity’s and did not feel the people I had been talking to were giving me all my options. But one email to Annuity Gator began a process where they went the extra mile to inform me of the many choices out there. I even got a breakdown in the mail just today. I would recommend them to anyone looking to find out more on how annuities work and what to expect across the board. They have been outstanding in helping me make some tough decisions. Thank You!
- Randy
Jeff was great
Jeff was great! Taught me so much about annutities and was patience with my questions!!
- SuRo
Annuity performance analysis augmented by IRA alternatives
Appreciated the in-depth review we received and especially the detailed data analysis and summary of our path forward thru retirement.
- atlPeter
Service rep was the difference
Service rep Jeff Woodard was so helpful. He made the entire process so easy to understand. He was friendly,patient, and gave me the feeling that he was working for me, to try and get a good product within the constraints of my own personal financial situation.
- Ken
Very informative
Very informative
- Robert
Concise information
We are still in the informational phase. Third meeting is going go be more definitive. I am very positive I will be going with all recommendations.
- Woody
Five stars to Matthew Taub
Of the past fifty-three years in working with brokers and sales reps, Matt was the most patience and thorough in helping me invest my little nest egg. No pressure and he listens to my concerns. Highly recommend!
- Dennis
Brian Greco was just awesome to work
Brian Greco was just awesome to work with. He took his fiduciary responsibility seriously and gained my trust by being patient, clearly explaining all of my options and never pushing to sell me on anything. I really felt Brian listened to my needs and had my best interest at heart in making retirement planning decisions. His follow up, knowledge and customer service were outstanding as well. I highly recommend Brian!!
- Kelly
It was very educational. I understand the benefits and the implications of choosing an annuity.
It was very educational.
- Donna
Annuity gator has educating videos and
Annuity gator has educating videos and articles for you to make decisions with out trying to sell you products, I was paired up with a wonderful money manager to talk with and go over several different plans for my wife and myself. Again no pressure to buy anything. This is a good tool I wish I found it years ago.
- Steven
Sean Sparkman, a true professional advisor
Sean Sparkman started with an education illustration on different types of annuity products. This overview gave me the confidence of choosing the best product for myself. Sean’s professional knowledge and listening skill were what I needed.
- Xin
Exceptional Advisor
Terry Ciotti was excellent in helping me understand how annuities work and explaining the policy terminology. He has a great demeanor and concern for his client. He is a highly valued employee for annuity gator and should be referred for new clients at any level.
- Robert
Exceptional Service
Mr. James Ault was my consultant and he was very concerned that the information he gave me was relevant to my situation. He explained everything carefully and answered all my questions. He sent me all the information I asked for and showed me exactly what each item was.
- Martha
Great
Great, no sales pressure very informative.
- David
Mike explained very detailed and thank
Mike explained very detailed and thank you
- Venna
Overall Service Review
Great service, help, and content in your webinars……very helpful!
- David
I had questions concerning Annuities
I has questions concerning Annuities Jeff Woodhy answered my questions so I could make an informed decision about my Annuity.
- William
Annuity Gator helped me find a suitable Annuity for Retirement Income
After contacting Annuity Gator I was contacted by a licensed insurance advisor who offered me a choice of annuities based on my specific retirement income need. I was presented with a list of insurance companies along with their company ratings. I went with an insurance company with an “A” rating that was offering a promotional interest rate during the five year accrual period which allowed for the principle investment to grow significantly prior to the first distribution. The advisor then worked with me to fill out the necessary forms (of which there are many) to submit an application to the insurance company I chose. Keep in mind that this process takes several weeks and multiple telephone calls, but the advisor was there for me every step of the way.
- Joseph
Best Agent Experience!
I was pleasantly surprised at my online experience which led to a very favorable call with my agent, Cal Menzies. He surpassed every expectation as far as his knowledge of the products I considered and recommended the best option for my needs. I never felt pressured and I am now set for the remainder of my retirement years. Highly recommend him! AG is fortunate to have someone like Cal to represent them!
- Zu
My annuity education
Ryan was very good at explaining everything and all the information that he had was very helpful and I would highly recommend anyone looking at annuities to use them
- Timothy
Jeff is excellent to work with and to plan with
I very much enjoyed working with Jeff Woodard. He is simple with the investment examples and keeps it real. There is no pressure to invest. Zoom calls are enjoyable and educational with plenty of information. I highly recommend learning, studying the investment strategies, and work with Jeff if you have questions.
- Michael
I want to express my heart felt gratitude
I want to express my heart felt gratitude for the assistance and guidance that our Annuity Advisor , Neil Dekter, provided my wife and I when converting our IRA in to our current Annuity. My wife and I had experienced a most un-fortunate event related to a portion of our retirement investments and, the company that held our investments made transferring funds challenging. Neil’s Courtesy, Professionalism and Patience helped not only to execute the transfer smoothly but, helped my wife and I keep our sanity through a trying time! Through Neil’s efforts, I rest easy knowing that my wife and I will receive a steady monthly lifetime income. I am sure there are many Annuity Advisors who are experts in the industry and, Neil is not only an expert in Annuities, he is an expert in people and truly cares for his clients! My wife and I feel deeply blessed to have met Neil and had the opportunity to work with him!
- Scott
The agent went out of his way to help
The agent went out of his way to help me even knowing that I may not have been in a position to purchase. Very, very, helpful.
- Carol
Robert is very knowledgeable
Robert is very knowledgeable and listebed carefully to my concerns and answered my questions.
- Debbie
Working with Mike K
Working with Mike K. is a breeze. Appoinyments are kept and on time. He is very professional. Answers questions in a way that can be understood by a layman. Will continue to recommend his services. Thanks Mike.
- Jim
Writing agent/firm Review
Beginning late January ’24 to the present, our writing agent has provided extremely courteous and timely responses, not only to our initial request for an appointment but to every subsequent, product-related question that we asked. Ultimately, he recommended an annuity product that met our objectives and then some! He delivered an organized, easy to understand presentation that was supported with an equally understandable illustration. Our customer experience has been consistently positive since the end of January through today’s meeting to review the contract.
- Michael
Very responsive company and people
Very responsive company and people. Happy to be part of their team and journey.
- Jerry
From what I can see
From what I can see, your representative is very knowledgeable and that is what a fiancial planner is required to be!
- Marguerite
Very informative. No pressure.
Very informative. No pressure. Mr Ault used your comparison tool to show us real performance numbers so we could pick best combination of policies for our needs. He made a good suggestion to diversify even in annuities. We can build a portfolio of annuities for different purposes not just plow into one. Some are best for income, some for growth, some for legacy. We can tailor a portfolio of annuities just like a stock/bond portfolio but with less risk. We are very satisfied.
- Timothy
Knowledgeable, Reliable and Trustworthy
Approximately a 15 months ago I met Joshua Schlinsky through a visual phone meeting. I was skeptical, I wasn’t a fan of discussing my needs and financial matters over the Zoom Meeting. I prefer face to face. After about 5 zoom meetings, I found Joshua to be very knowledgeable about the many constantly changing Annuities and their crediting options from different Insurance Companies. Joshua gained my Trust and I found him very easy to work with. Not a pushy salesman. He educated me with the newest options in the ever-changing market. Along with his professional advise, He and I made good solid choices. I am thankful for Joshua and his staff for being a Professional, Educated and Passionate firm representing me.
- Rosario
Excellent explanation in detail the
Excellent explanation in detail the pros and cons of investing in annuities.
- vasilios
James went the extra mile to ensure
James went the extra mile to ensure that our needs were satisfied.
- Kenneth
I could not have ask for a better. Outstanding Service
I could not have ask for a better experience. I was looking for retirement income. My rep, Joshua Schlinsky, took all the time we needed to explain everything in detail and executed the process flawlessly. I could not be happier.
- David
I had a less than good results with a
I had a less than good results with a major insurance company with my retirement funds. It wasn t all their fault due to the bond market going south. But it still cost me a lot of money. I reached out to Annuity Gator to see what they had to offer. I am as skeptical because of what I had heard about annuities in general. Barry Young took me by the hand and never tried to close the deal: He was steady and reassuring from day one. I would suggest to anyone to give Them the opportunity to explain how todays annuities actually work.
- Ted
Excellent support and knowledgeable
Excellent support and knowledgeable answers. If you want objective, fact based information, this is a very good resource.
- Apples1128!
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sales tactics, in-person meetings, or complicated insurance jargon.
We focus relentlessly on three areas:
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Personalization
Honest guidance
We give it to you straight. We don’t hide anything or avoid conversations about fees, commissions, or fine print. Our Licensed Annuity Investigators provide full transparency, answer all your questions, and give honest guidance so you can retire with confidence.
Best annuities
With our technology-driven approach, we can investigate hundreds of top annuities from multiple top-rated insurance companies. Our Licensed Annuity Investigators can help you understand your options and feel confident you have found the best retirement annuity for your situation to financially prepare for a comfortable and worry-free retirement.
Personalization
There is no one-size-fits-all annuity. The right annuity for your retirement depends on your goals, needs, and desired retirement outcome. Our Licensed Annuity Investigators can help you customize a strategy that helps you reach your desired outcome with minimal effort from you.
Need help finding the right annuity?
We have over 100 retirement annuities in our review database.
FAQs
What are annuities, and how do they work in retirement planning?
Annuities are financial products offered by an issuing insurance company that can help you convert your retirement savings into a guaranteed income stream. They are often used as part of retirement planning to ensure you have enough money to cover your expenses throughout retirement. Depending on the type of annuity—such as fixed annuities, variable annuities, or deferred income annuities—you can receive guaranteed lifetime income, tax-deferred growth, and protection from market declines. These products can be tailored to meet your investment objectives and provide regular payments, either immediately or in the future, based on your needs.
What is the difference between fixed and variable annuities, and can I lose money with them?
Fixed annuities provide a guaranteed rate of return and predictable payments, making them a safer option for those seeking stability. Variable annuities, on the other hand, offer underlying investment options tied to market performance, which means your account value may fluctuate. While fixed annuities protect your principal, variable annuities carry market risk, so it’s possible to lose money depending on how the investments perform. Both types may include additional features like a death benefit or a guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit for an extra fee.
How do taxes work with annuities, and what is tax deferral?
Annuities offer tax-deferred growth, meaning you don’t pay taxes on earnings until you withdraw them. When you take distributions, they are taxed as ordinary income rather than capital gains. This can help your retirement nest egg grow faster compared to taxable accounts. However, early withdrawals may incur surrender charges and additional penalties. It’s important to consult a licensed insurance agency or tax professional for personalized tax advice before making decisions about an annuity.
What should I consider when evaluating a retirement annuity?
When evaluating retirement annuities, consider reviewing unbiased reviews and analyses to understand the pros and cons of each product. Websites like AnnuityGator.com provide independent reviews to help you make informed decisions. Look at the financial strength of the issuing insurance company, such as York Life Insurance Company, as their claims-paying ability is crucial for honoring guarantees like guaranteed lifetime income. Also, evaluate the fees, investment options, and any additional features like cost-of-living adjustments that align with your retirement goals.
What happens to my annuity if I pass away?
Many retirement annuities include a death benefit that ensures any remaining contract value or specified funds are passed on to your beneficiaries. Some contracts also allow you to choose income options that continue payments to a spouse or heir after your death. The specifics vary depending on the type of annuity and the terms outlined by the issuing corporation. Be sure to review these details carefully when purchasing an annuity to ensure it aligns with your legacy planning goals.
See How Stephen Turned His 401(K) Into a Guaranteed Lifetime Income and Can Now Retire with Confidence