We all want to save money for retirement, but what’s the best way? Not all companies offer retirement benefits anymore, and there are many options to choose from.
A recent report says that only 16% of Fortune 500 companies offer retirement pensions. This is a huge decrease from what employees used to expect twenty or thirty years ago.
If you’re not sure whether pensions or pension annuities are better for your retirement needs, this article will clear up the key differences you need to know.
Pension vs Pension Annuities
What’s the difference between pensions and pension annuities? In a nutshell, the difference between pension and annuity is that employers pay pensions, and insurance companies pay annuities.
With a pension, you will get a set payment each month from your company after you retire. Some people opt to receive all the money at once, but most of the time pensions come in installments.
Some pensions can adjust to compensate for increases in cost-of-living or changes in the stock market. Most pensions can be set up to go to a relative in the event that the original beneficiary dies.
Pension annuities are also paid monthly after individuals purchase them from an insurance company. Like pensions, annuities allow purchasers to receive regular income for the rest of their lives. Unlike pensions, you can set them up independently of where you work.
You don’t have to retire to receive payments from an annuity. The timing depends on the contract you sign and the type you purchase.
Annuities are a good option for employees who have saved as much as they can in their 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts. They allow you to continue to save after you’ve exhaust other options.
How to Know Which Option is Best
Is it better to have pensions or annuities? The answer is a highly individual one and depends on your exact financial situation and goals.
As with any big purchase, it’s good to do your research before deciding on how to invest your money for retirement. If you would like to learn more about annuities and investing, check it out this great article.
When it’s time to decide between pension vs annuity, it all boils down to if you plan to stay long-term at your company and invest their way. If you’d rather have some flexibility and plan to work for more than one company, then an annuity might make more sense for you.
It’s always wise to work with a knowledgeable financial advisor when making decisions about how to invest your money. They will know about current trends and how to choose the option that will help you retire comfortably.
Pick the Right Financial Products for You
We hope you have enjoyed this article on the differences between pensions and annuities. With a little research, you should be able to find the perfect retirement-saving solution that works for you.
When it comes to choosing pensions and pension annuities, it helps to stay up-to-date on financial news. For all the latest in business, finance, and more, check out the rest of our blog.
