In this 0:32 Annuities Explained YouTube Short, Jeffrey Scott McLeod, LUTC, covers “What is an equity index annuity?.” What is an equity indexed annuity? They were invented in 1995 and by 2007 this National Association of Insurance Commissioners buyers guide called them an equity indexed annuity is a fixed annuity either immediate or deferred that provides benefits that are linked to an external equity reference. They since dropped that word equity and they're just called fixed index annuities Insurance education only—not securities advice.
Key takeaways
They were invented in 1995 and by 2007 this National Association of Insurance Commissioners buyers guide called them an equity indexed annuity is a fixed annuity either immediate or deferred that provides benefits…
They since dropped that word equity and they're just called fixed index annuities.
This Short is a quick overview—confirm features, rates, and charges in the insurance contract and NAIC Buyer’s Guide.
From the NAIC Buyer’s Guide
Fixed indexed annuities are a type of fixed annuity that earn interest based on changes in a market index; the interest rate is guaranteed never to be less than zero, even if the market goes down. When you buy an indexed annuity, you are not investing directly in the market or the index.
Fixed annuities guarantee at least a minimum interest rate set by the insurer. Deferred annuities also differ by premium pattern and by fees and charges.
The 2022 NAIC Buyer’s Guide for Deferred Annuities explains that an annuity is a contract with an insurance company. With an annuity, the insurer promises to pay income on a regular basis for a period you choose—including the rest of your life.
Source: NAIC Buyer’s Guide for Deferred Annuities (2022). The guide does not endorse any company or policy. For your state insurance department, see www.naic.org.
Jeffrey Scott McLeod, LUTC, is a licensed insurance producer. Content on this page is educational and discusses insurance products only—not securities, brokerage, or investment advisory services. Texas license 901162. Arkansas / National Producer Number 558629. Product availability, rates, and features vary by state and insurer. Read the NAIC Buyer’s Guide and the insurance contract before you buy.