Here’s why commission-free annuities might cost you more in the long run

  • "Commission-free" annuities might sound cheaper, but those annual fees (usually 0.25-1.25%) can end up costing more in the long run than a one-time commission.

  • Fee-based annuities often charge more annually compared to commission-based ones, and they typically come with weaker benefits like lower payouts and fewer liquidity options.

  • Your choice of products is limited since most commission-free annuities are only available through certain platforms with fewer carriers.

  • These products often restrict you from using traditional indexes like the S&P 500, opting for engineered ones that lack a solid performance history.

  • Not great if you're looking for top-tier insurer access, higher income payouts, and diverse product offerings. Best for those already working with fee-only advisors and okay with limited options.

  • If you want flexibility, independent broker support, or products like traditional S&P 500 index crediting, high-rate MYGAs, or strong guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefits (GLWBs), this isn't your jam.

https://www.annuityexpertadvice.com/should-you-buy-a-commission-free-annuity/

Posted Jul 6, 2025, 9:00 PM UTC

10

Comments aren't archived yet

Comments for this period haven't been loaded into the archive yet.