An annuity is sold by an insurance company, and the annuity’s guarantees and protections are subject to that company’s ability to pay for them. However, this doesn’t apply to the underlying investments. The underlying investments are subject to market risk, so you could end up with less money than you invested.
An annuity is sold by prospectus, a document that describes the annuity’s objectives, risks, fees and charges. The cost of an annuity often includes mortality and expense charges, administrative fees, contract fees and the expense of the underlying investments. There are prospectuses for the annuity and the underlying investments that fund the annuity. It may take some time, but you should read the prospectuses carefully before investing.
Before investing, understand that annuities are not insured by the FDIC, NCUSIF or any other federal government agency, and are not deposits or obligations of, guaranteed by, or insured by the depository institution where offered or any of affiliates. Annuities that involve investment risk may lose value. Guarantees and protections are subject to the claims paying ability of the issuing insurance company.
