fixed annuity

Understanding the Roles of Fixed Registered and Deferred Annuities

When planning for retirement, understanding registered deferred annuities is crucial to ensure that your investment strategy aligns with your long-term goals. A fixed premium registered deferred annuity is a popular choice. But one common question is: who bears all the investment risk in a fixed annuity? This question is important as it impacts the security and potential returns you can expect. Let’s dive into this and find the answers, so you can make an informed decision about which annuity best suits your retirement needs.

What is a Fixed Annuity, and Who Bears All the Investment Risk?

A fixed annuity provides a guaranteed return on your investment. With this type of annuity, you agree to pay a lump sum to an insurance company. In exchange, the insurer guarantees you regular payments starting at a specified time, often in retirement. This fixed amount is determined at the time of purchase, and you are assured of receiving it for a set period or for the rest of your life. There is no risk to the person purchasing the annuity. The deferred payments are determined up front and are guaranteed.

So, who bears all the investment risk in a fixed annuity? The insurance company is responsible for assuming the risk. You, as the policyholder, are not exposed to market fluctuations. The insurer guarantees the return based on their financial strength, making it a stable and low-risk investment for you. This provides peace of mind for individuals who are risk-averse or nearing retirement, as it ensures predictable income.

Benefits of a Fixed Annuity

Fixed annuities are often sought after for their stability and security. They are ideal for individuals who want a reliable income in retirement without worrying about the ups and downs of the financial markets. This makes them particularly appealing to conservative investors, as they eliminate the uncertainties that come with stocks, bonds, and other more volatile investment options.

This can be an attractive feature for people who want to avoid the possibility of their retirement savings being depleted by market volatility.

Choosing the Right Annuity for Your Retirement

It’s a good idea to speak with an annuity broker who can provide personalized advice and help craft an annuity plan that aligns with your needs. At Beaton Annuity Services, we specialize in offering tailored guidance for our clients, ensuring that you can make an informed decision without hidden costs. And the best part? There are no broker fees for any guaranteed annuities sold in Canada. Call us at 1-800-667-8818 and let us guide you towards making a confident decision for your future.


deferred annuity

How Does the Accumulation Period Affect Your Future Payouts in registered deferred Annuities?

“Annuities are like building blocks for your future – each step, each decision, compounds into the financial stability you seek.”

A registered deferred annuity is a powerful financial tool that provides a steady stream of income in retirement. However, before you start receiving those payments, it’s important to understand how the accumulation period works. Many people ask, how do interest earnings accumulate in a deferred annuity? This is a key concept, especially if you are looking into deferred annuities and want to understand how this period can impact your future payouts. Let’s understand how this process influences your financial planning and the timing of your payouts.

Understanding the Accumulation Period

The accumulation period is the phase after purchasing your annuity, but before payouts begin. In a registered deferred annuity, this is when your investment grows, through interest growth. In contrast, immediate annuities have little to no accumulation period, as payouts typically begin almost immediately after purchase. The key difference between immediate and deferred annuities lies in the start of the payout. Immediate annuities provide income right away, while deferred annuities allow time for growth before payouts begin. There are no fees for any guaranteed annuities sold in Canada, which adds an advantage to choosing these types of investments.

The Importance of the Accumulation Period in Registered Deferred Annuities

In deferred annuities, the accumulation period lets your investment grow. The longer this period, up to the age of 72 when you must start taking income, the larger your future payouts will be. The interest earned during this phase directly affects the value of your annuity and can significantly increase your retirement income. The longer you wait to start payments, the more interest can accumulate, leading to higher payouts.

What Happens with Immediate Annuities?

For immediate annuities, the concept of the accumulation period doesn’t directly apply, as you begin receiving payouts almost immediately. Instead, the size of your payments is determined by the lump sum you contribute, the payout structure you choose, and the type of annuity. The sooner you start receiving payments, the smaller the amount of time your funds have to grow. However, if you make a larger initial payment, the payouts are larger as well.

How Long Is the Accumulation Period for Immediate Annuities?

So, how long is the accumulation period for immediate annuities? The short answer is, that there is no accumulation period for immediate annuities. These annuities start paying out as soon as the contract is signed, and there is no waiting time for growth. If you are looking to build wealth over time and want to defer your payouts for a longer period, you would likely choose a deferred annuity.

Summary Thoughts

Understanding the accumulation period is key to managing your future income from annuities. While this period doesn’t apply to immediate annuities, it’s very significant for deferred annuities, where your investment growth directly affects the payouts you’ll receive. If you’re thinking about annuities as part of your retirement plan, we at Beaton Annuity Services are here to help you find the best solution. Get in touch with us today at 1-800-667-8818 to learn more about how we can assist you in securing your financial future. There are no fees for any guaranteed annuities sold in Canada, so you can feel confident that your investment is working for you.


copycat annuity

How Copycat Annuities Can Address Common Retirement Concerns?

Worried about outliving your savings in a city like Vancouver or Surrey? You’re not alone. Many Canadians are feeling the pinch of rising costs and uncertain markets. Copycat annuities might just be the answer. These financial products offer a steady income stream, no matter what the stock market does. It’s like having a safety net for your retirement. Let’s talk about how copycat annuities can help you feel more secure about your future.

Understanding Copycat Annuities

A copycat annuity is designed to mimic the benefits of traditional defined benefit pension plans. Many times, a copy cat annuity will allow you to purchase a life annuity in the open annuity market for less cost than the defined benefit pension plan that you currently hold. This means that there may be excess funds available by replacing your defined benefit pension plan with an annuity in the open market.  These excess funds can be transferred to your existing RRSP account if there is room, or simply taken in cash after paying any tax to the revenue people.

1. A Reliable Income Stream

One of the biggest fears for retirees is the possibility of running out of money. Copycat annuities can help mitigate this concern by providing a steady income stream. When you choose this type of annuity, you can receive regular payments that can cover your living expenses. This helps ensure you have enough money to enjoy your retirement, whether you’re exploring the scenic shores of Vancouver Island or enjoying a quiet evening in your hometown.

2. Safety from Market Fluctuations

Investing in the stock market can feel like a roller coaster, especially during uncertain economic times. For Canadians who want to avoid the stress of market ups and downs, copycat annuities can offer a more stable alternative.

3. Flexible Solutions for Life Changes

Life is unpredictable, and your financial needs may change over time. Whether you want to travel, help your children buy their first home, or pay for unexpected medical expenses, copycat annuities guarantee that funds will be available.

4. Designed for Canadians

In Canada, copycat annuities are designed with Canadians in mind. This makes them an attractive choice for those looking to secure their financial future in a way that fits their lifestyle and needs.

5. Professional Guidance for Peace of Mind

Annuities can be confusing. That’s why a financial advisor is helpful. A qualified financial advisor can simplify this process, providing expert guidance tailored to your specific needs. By assessing your financial situation, risk tolerance, and retirement goals, they can recommend the most suitable annuity option. This personalized approach ensures that you make informed decisions.

Conclusion Overview

A copycat annuity in Canada can provide Canadian retirees with a guaranteed and secure income stream. These financial products offer several benefits, including guaranteed income and protection from market volatility. At Beaton Annuity Services, we’re dedicated to helping Canadians make informed decisions about their retirement savings.


benefits of deferred annuity

Future-Proofing Your Finances: The Benefits of Buying a Deferred Annuity

 Many people worry about their financial future, especially as they approach retirement. Did you know that nearly 70% of adults feel unprepared for their retirement years? That’s a significant number, and it’s understandable to feel a bit anxious about what lies ahead. One way to help ease these concerns is through financial products like deferred annuities. Exploring the benefits of deferred annuity can provide you with greater security and peace of mind. Sounds good, right? Let’s dive in and see how this could work for you!

What’s a Deferred Annuity? Your Savings Shield

A deferred annuity is like a savings account, where your money grows tax-free until you retire. You invest a lump. When you retire, you can withdraw your money as regular payments. It’s a great way to save for retirement and have a steady income later in life.

How a Deferred Annuity Works

  • Initial Investment: You start by investing a lump sum.
  • Tax-Deferred Growth: Your investment grows tax-deferred, meaning you won’t owe taxes on the earnings until you withdraw them.
  • Withdrawal Options: When you reach retirement age, you begin to receive regular payments.

    Important Considerations:

  • Fees and Charges: There are no fees associated with a deferred annuity.

  • Liquidity: Accessing your funds before the contract’s end is prohibited.
  • Risk Tolerance: Consider your risk tolerance and investment goals before choosing a deferred annuity.

    Why Should You Consider a Deferred Annuity?

  • Tax-Free Growth: Your investment blossoms without immediate tax bites. This allows your savings to compound more rapidly, yielding a larger harvest later.
  • Steady Income Stream: Deferred annuities will provide a guaranteed income stream, easing financial worries during your golden years.
  • Weathering Market Storms: Unlike investments tied to market fluctuations, deferred annuities offer a safe haven. They protect your savings from the ups and downs of the market.

    Summary Reflections: A Wise Choice for a Brighter Future

If you’re looking to secure your financial future, buying a deferred annuity is a smart choice for anyone wanting to secure their finances for the future. A deferred annuity can really boost your financial plan and give you peace of mind as you head toward retirement. We at Beaton Annuity Services are here to help you every step of the way. Our friendly team is ready to answer your questions and assist you in finding the right annuity that fits your needs. Let’s work together to make your financial future brighter!


annuity plans for retirement

Annuities Explained: The Ultimate Guide to Retirement Income

Category : Blog

When planning for retirement, ensuring a steady income stream is essential to maintaining your lifestyle and peace of mind. One financial tool that can provide this stability is an annuity. Annuities offer guaranteed payments over time, which can help supplement other sources of retirement income. Understanding how annuities work, the types available, and their potential benefits can be key to securing your retirement future.

What Are Annuities?

An annuity is a financial product sold by insurance companies that provides regular payments over time in exchange for an upfront investment, usually a lump sum. Annuities are often used as part of a retirement plan to ensure a stable income. These payments can begin immediately (immediate annuity) or at a future date (deferred annuity), depending on the type of annuity you choose.

Types of Annuities for Retirement

Several types of annuities cater to different needs in retirement. Below are a few common options:

  1. Life Annuities: A life annuity guarantees payments for the rest of your life. This is ideal for those worried about outliving their savings, as the payments continue as long as you are alive. It can be structured as a single life annuity, which pays only for your lifetime, or a joint life annuity, which continues payments to your spouse after your death.
  2. Term Certain Annuities: With a term certain annuity, payments are made for a specified number of years. This type of annuity is ideal if you need a guaranteed income for a specific time period, such as covering the gap between retirement and receiving government pensions like Old Age Security (OAS).
  3. Indexed Annuities: An indexed annuity increases the payout over time to keep up with inflation. While the initial payments may be lower, they will rise annually, making this option suitable for those looking to maintain purchasing power throughout retirement.
  4. Cash Back Annuities: These annuities guarantee that all of the capital used to purchase the annuity will be returned, either through income payments during your lifetime or as a lump-sum payment to your beneficiary if you pass away before the full amount is paid out. It’s a way to ensure that your investment won’t go to waste.

Benefits of Annuities in Retirement

Annuities are particularly attractive for retirees seeking a predictable income that isn’t affected by market fluctuations. Here are some key benefits:

  1. Guaranteed Income for Life: The primary appeal of life annuities is the promise of regular, guaranteed income for life. This removes the uncertainty of outliving your savings and provides a safety net for your basic living expenses.
  2. Protection Against Market Risks: Unlike investments that are tied to the stock market, annuities offer stable, fixed payments. This can be particularly reassuring during times of market volatility, as you won’t need to worry about losing value in your retirement income.
  3. Tax-Deferred Growth: For deferred annuities, the money you invest grows tax-deferred until you begin to receive payments. This allows your investment to grow without the drag of annual taxes on earnings, making it an effective long-term saving option.
  4. Flexible Payout Options: Annuities can be structured to fit your specific needs. For example, you can choose how long you want to receive payments (for life or a certain period), whether the annuity should continue for your spouse after your death, and whether you want to adjust for inflation through indexed payments.

Canadian Annuity Rates and Retirement

In Canada, annuity rates fluctuate based on factors such as interest rates, age, and life expectancy. Currently, higher interest rates can result in higher payouts, making annuities more attractive in certain market conditions. Annuities can be purchased with registered funds (like RRSPs) or non-registered funds. For those with an RRSP, it’s essential to make an election by the time you turn 71 on how to convert your RRSP into retirement income—either through a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) or a registered annuity.

Annuities and Tax Considerations

One of the often overlooked advantages of annuities is their potential tax benefits. Non-registered life annuities may allow for some tax-efficient income. Payments from such annuities are treated partly as a return of capital, which is not taxed, and partly as income. This can help lower your overall tax burden, especially if you are in a higher tax bracket.

Moreover, if you are concerned about Old Age Security (OAS) clawbacks due to high taxable income, structuring your income sources with annuities can help you stay below the threshold that triggers these clawbacks.

Beaton Annuity Services: Your Partner for a Secure Retirement

Beaton Annuity Services is dedicated to helping you secure a stable and reliable income throughout your retirement. We offer a wide range of annuity plans for retirement, including Life Annuities, Term Certain Annuities, and Cash Back Annuities, tailored to meet your financial goals. Our experienced professionals work closely with you to simplify the process, ensuring your annuity plan fits your needs. With our expertise, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your retirement income is guaranteed, tax-efficient, and protected from market risks. Trust Beaton Annuity Services to safeguard your financial future.


Deferred Annuity

Maximize Your Retirement: Key Benefits of a Deferred Annuity

A deferred annuity can be a powerful tool in securing your financial future, particularly as part of a well-rounded retirement strategy. It allows your money to grow tax-deferred, meaning you don’t pay taxes on the interest earned until you start receiving payouts. This makes it a popular choice for those planning their retirement. Let’s explore the key benefits of a deferred annuity and why it might be a smart choice for your retirement.

  1. Tax-Deferred Growth

Any interest, dividends, or capital gains accumulated within the annuity remain untaxed until you withdraw them. This tax-deferred growth can allow your investment to compound more effectively, resulting in a larger nest egg for retirement.

For Canadians nearing retirement age, having the option to postpone taxes until you’re in a lower tax bracket can mean keeping more of your hard-earned money. This makes deferred annuities especially appealing for those who want to minimize taxes on their retirement income.

  1. Guaranteed Income for Life

A major advantage of buying a deferred annuity is that it provides a guaranteed income for life once the payout phase begins. This is crucial for retirees concerned about outliving their savings. Unlike other forms of investment, which can fluctuate with the market, annuities offer a stable and predictable source of income.

For example, once you purchase a deferred annuity, your payments are determined based on your initial investment, your age, and the terms of the annuity. Once those payments start, they are guaranteed to continue for the rest of your life, ensuring that you have a reliable income even if other sources run dry.

  1. Flexible Payment Options

You can choose from a fixed period or a lifetime payment plan. This flexibility makes deferred annuities suitable for various retirement scenarios, whether you want to start receiving payouts right after you retire or delay them until a later stage.

For those unsure about the future, this ability to control when and how you receive your money can be an essential feature, offering peace of mind that you’ll have income when you need it most.

  1. Protection Against Longevity Risk

A deferred annuity mitigates this risk by providing guaranteed income throughout your retirement, no matter how long you live. This helps you avoid the stress of managing investments or worrying about economic downturns that could erode your savings.

In the case of an annuity, you are effectively transferring the risk to the insurance company, which assumes responsibility for making sure you have income for the rest of your life. This reduces your financial anxiety in later years, ensuring your basic needs are always met.

  1. No Investment Management Required

After making your initial investment, the insurance company handles all the behind-the-scenes work. You simply sit back and wait for the payout phase, making deferred annuities a “set it and forget it” option.

This hands-off approach is perfect for those who don’t want to worry about constantly rebalancing portfolios or monitoring the stock market. In uncertain economic times, having a guaranteed, low-maintenance source of income can be extremely reassuring.

Secure Your Future with Beaton Annuity Services

At Beaton Annuity Services, we provide personalized annuity solutions to help you achieve financial stability during retirement. Whether you’re considering Term Certain, Guaranteed Life, Cash Back, Insured, or Indexed Annuities, we work with leading Canadian insurance providers to tailor the best options for you. With over 30 years of experience, John Beaton ensures you receive expert advice and the highest guaranteed income for your investment. Let us help you protect your retirement savings and secure a reliable income stream that lasts a lifetime.


deferred annuity

Why Choose a Single Premium Deferred Annuity for Your Retirement Plan?

While planning for retirement, you should consider various financial products to ensure your savings are managed properly and provide the income you need. The Single Premium Deferred Annuity (SPDA) is one of those products. Such annuities offer different benefits and can be a great option for many retirees. This guide will help you know why a Single Premium Deferred Annuity might be the right choice for your retirement plan.

What is a Single Premium Deferred Annuity?

A Single Premium Deferred Annuity is a financial product where you make a single lump-sum payment to an insurance company. In return, the insurer promises to provide you with a stream of payments starting at a future time according to the date you choose. The term “deferred” means that payments don’t begin immediately but are scheduled to start at a later date. It is usually many years after the first investment.

  1. Guaranteed Future Income

SPDA can be a guaranteed future income for you. Investing a lump sum now can help you secure a predictable income stream for a future date. It can be particularly beneficial for retirement planning, as it provides financial security and helps mitigate the risk of outliving your savings.

  1. Tax-Deferred Growth

The money you invest in an SPDA grows without being taxed until you start receiving payments. This can be a powerful way to build your retirement savings, as your investment has more time to grow and compound.

  1. Flexibility in Income Start Date

There is flexibility in choosing when you want to start receiving payments. You can choose to begin receiving income at any future date, which allows you to align the annuity with your retirement plans or other financial needs.

Considerations When Choosing an SPDA

  1.   Terms and Conditions

Before purchasing a Single Premium Deferred Annuity, you should understand the terms and conditions. Ensuring you fully understand these details will help you make an informed decision and avoid any surprises in the future.

  1. Assessing Your Financial Goals

Evaluate your overall financial goals and how an SPDA fits into your retirement strategy. Consider factors such as your desired retirement age, other sources of income, and your long-term financial needs. An SPDA should align with your goals and provide benefits that match your specific retirement plans.

Explore SPDA with Beaton Annuity Services!

A Single Premium Deferred Annuity can be a valuable tool in your retirement planning strategy. With guaranteed future income, tax-deferred growth, and flexible income start dates, an SPDA provides a secure and predictable way to enhance your financial stability in retirement. Beaton Annuity Services offers one of the best annuity solutions to ensure a stable and secure income for your future. We will guide you through choosing the right annuity—whether Fixed, Single Premium Deferred, or Immediate annuity according to your retirement objectives and financial requirements. Reach out to Beaton Annuity Services today and start building a worry-free retirement plan!


life insurance annuity

What is a Life Annuity and How Can It Benefit Your Retirement?

Category : Blog

As you approach retirement, planning to manage your savings and convert them into a steady income stream becomes increasingly important. One popular option is a life annuity, which provides a guaranteed income for the rest of your life. This blog will explore what a life annuity is, how it works, and how it can benefit your retirement, particularly for Canadians navigating their retirement planning.

What is a Life Annuity?

A life annuity is a financial product sold by insurance companies that guarantees a steady income for the rest of your life in exchange for a lump-sum payment. The main purpose of a life annuity is to eliminate the risk of outliving your savings by providing a predictable income, regardless of how long you live.

Once purchased, a life annuity offers a “no-maintenance” solution—there are no ongoing decisions about investments or withdrawals. It ensures you receive regular payments (monthly, quarterly, or annually) for life.

The Importance of Retirement Planning and Income Stability

In Canada, as in many other countries, the government provides a basic level of retirement income through programs such as the Old Age Security (OAS) and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). However, these government benefits may not be enough to cover all your retirement expenses. If you have saved in an RRSP (Registered Retirement Savings Plan), you’ll also need to decide how to convert those savings into a regular income once you retire.

By the time you turn 71, you’ll be required to either transfer your RRSP into a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF) or purchase a life annuity. The RRIF allows more flexibility, including the ability to withdraw lump sums in emergencies, but a life annuity can provide stability and peace of mind by ensuring that basic living expenses, like housing and food, are always covered.

How Life Annuities Help Protect Your Retirement?

One of the key benefits of a life annuity is the guaranteed lifetime income it provides. Once you purchase a life annuity, you don’t have to worry about investment risks, economic downturns, or making difficult financial decisions later in life. Here are some additional advantages:

1. No Risk of Outliving Your Savings

As life expectancy increases, more retirees face the risk of outliving their savings. A life annuity provides a solution by ensuring that you will continue receiving payments for the rest of your life, no matter how long you live.

2. Predictable Income

With a life annuity, you don’t need to worry about market fluctuations or managing investments. Your income is predetermined and stable, which can ease the anxiety associated with financial planning in retirement.

3. Tax-Deferred Growth

If you purchase a life annuity with funds from your RRSP, you can enjoy tax deferral until the income has to be paid out. This can be particularly beneficial if you have substantial savings, as it allows your investment to grow without the immediate tax burden.

4. Eliminating the Need for Complex Decisions

With a life annuity, you don’t have to make any more decisions about your investments. The income is automatic and consistent.

Canadian Annuity Rates and Government Programs

Canadian citizens have specific options when it comes to life annuities. Canadian government benefits like Old Age Security (OAS) and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) offer basic retirement income, but they are often not enough to cover all living expenses. Annuities are available to supplement these programs, and their rates vary based on factors like age, health, and current interest rates.

Canadians with RRSPs must convert their savings into an RRIF or a life annuity by the end of the year they turn 71. This choice gives flexibility, allowing retirees to decide whether they want more control over their income through a RRIF or guaranteed payments through a life annuity.

Advanced Life Deferred Annuity (ALDA) – A New Option

In 2024, Canada introduced the Advanced Life Deferred Annuity (ALDA), allowing individuals to defer taxable income from their registered funds, such as RRSPs and RRIFs, until age 85. This option is particularly valuable for those who wish to reduce their required withdrawals in their 70s and defer some income for later in life. The ALDA allows up to 25% of registered funds, to a maximum of $170,000, to be allocated to this annuity.

Conclusion: A Life Annuity as Part of Your Retirement Plan

A life annuity offers stability, predictability, and peace of mind in retirement. It ensures that you will receive income for life, even if you live beyond your expected years. For those with substantial retirement savings, a life annuity can also protect against market risk and the uncertainty of managing finances in later years. In Canada, life annuities can be used in conjunction with government benefits and RRSP savings to create a reliable retirement income strategy.

At Beaton Annuity Services, we specialize in helping you achieve financial security through tailored life annuities. Our team provides personalized solutions designed to ensure a steady, reliable income for the rest of your life. With a range of options, including fixed-term, guaranteed, and insured life annuities, we help you choose the best fit for your retirement goals. Trust Beaton Annuity Services to guide you through the complexities of annuities, offering peace of mind and a secure financial future. Contact us today to start planning for a worry-free retirement.