fixed annuity vs. certificate: which could bring you a higher rate of return?

With interest rates hovering at historic lows, investors seeking security might think you have to settle for less. But with a fixed annuity, you could get similar benefits and potentially higher rates than a comparable Certificate. In fact, from 2010 to 2020, 5-year fixed annuities averaged a 1.0 interest point higher than 5-year Certificates.1

Let’s put that into hypothetical numbers. In 2019, if you invested $100,000 into a 5-year fixed annuity at an average rate that year of 2.42% compared to investing $100,000 into a 5-year Certificate with an average rate that year of 0.98%, and held to maturity, the fixed annuity will accumulate over $7,800 more in value than the Certificate.

1. guaranteed principal protection and interest rates

Fixed annuities keep your money safe from the ups and downs of the market and offer a choice of durations. You can decide if those durations are suitable for your needs.

2. tax-deferred growth

Because fixed annuities are tax-deferred, you’ll get the benefits of compounded growth as your principal and accumulated interest keep growing free of taxes, just like you would in a retirement Certificate.

3. an easy way to leave a legacy

We understand passing on a legacy is important. That’s why a fixed annuity, like a Certificate, allows you to choose the recipient of your contract's value if you were to pass away. That money is paid directly to your beneficiary without going through probate, which can be long and costly.

Securities sold, advisory services offered through CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC, a registered broker/dealer and investment advisor. CBSI is under contract with the financial institution to make securities available to members.

¹Annuity Rate Watch, Multi Year Guarantee Annuities Historical Rates, October 14, 2020. FDIC, Weekly National Rates and Rate Caps, October 14, 2020.

Some product features come at an additional cost. Be sure to discuss such features with a financial professional and go over all potential fees and expenses prior to purchase. Investment and insurance products are not federally insured, may involve investment risk, may lose value and are not obligations of or guaranteed by any depository or lending institution.

All guarantees are backed by the claims paying ability of the insurer.

There are distinct differences between annuities and Certificates. Most Certificates are considered a short-term investment. An annuity is considered a long-term investment. The investment in a Certificate is insured by the federal government, either through FDIC or NCUA. The investment in an annuity is guaranteed by an insurance company. Like Certificates, annuities have a penalty for early surrender, and withdrawals taken before the age of 59 ½ from an annuity may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty.

Representatives are registered, securities sold, advisory services offered through CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC, a registered broker/dealer and investment advisor, which is not an affiliate of the credit union.

CBSI is under contract with the financial institution to make securities available to members. Not NCUA/NCUSIF/FDIC insured, May Lose Value, No Financial Institution Guarantee. Not a deposit of any financial institution.

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