We all want a stable and comfortable retirement, but when faced with all the options for retirement planning, things can get a little daunting. When it comes to annuities in Auburn Hills, the sheer number of options can make your head spin. So, who should you trust to help you make the right decision?

As far as advisers go, you’ll truly be choosing between two key types of financial professionals: brokers and fiduciaries. Let’s look at their similarities, differences and which is your best options when buying an annuity.

First Things First

Annuities are financial tools that help individuals secure a steady and reliable line of income during retirement. Essentially, you enter into a contract with an insurance provider in which you exchange either one lump sum payment or a series of payments for guaranteed income after a period outlined on said contract. Annuities come in many forms, but the key benefit is the security that comes with payments you can count on for years to come.

Choosing a Financial Professional

Brokers

What Does a Broker Do?

A broker is a financial professional who works to facilitate deals or purchases between an entity and an individual. Brokers often act in the capacity of sellers for a particular product, usually earning commission once an agreement is completed. Although brokers are good resources for sorting through financial options from a single company, they tend to emphasize executing the deal and making a profit than looking out for the best interest of their clients.

What Should You Know About Brokers?

When it comes to choosing annuities in Auburn Hills, you should understand that brokers function similarly to salespeople. Ultimately, their compensation depends on the sale and the revenue they bring to the insurance company.

Pros of Choosing a Broker

  • Access to internal research
  • Can answer all your questions about the options they provide
  • Takes some of the decision-making out of your hands

Cons of Choosing a Broker

  • Working for the insurance company
  • Paycheck depends on your purchase
  • Not always looking out for your best interests

Fiduciaries

What Does a Fiduciary Do?

The role of a fiduciary is more like that of a financial advisor when compared to a broker. Fiduciaries must abide by strict rules and a standard of care that binds them legally to act in the best interest of their clients. A fiduciary is not incentivized to make a sale, and they are held to one of the highest standards of care according to U.S. law.

What Should You Know About Fiduciaries?

Fiduciaries are more client-centric than brokers. Their goal is to sit with you, help you understand your options, and guide you to the best possible outcomes for your needs. While a broker might just want to sell you an annuity, a fiduciary will review all the annuity options in Auburn Hills to help you choose one that can help you meet your retirement goals.

What Should You Know About Fiduciaries?

  • Has your best interest in mind
  • Highest standard of care
  • Not concerned with earning a commission

Cons of Choosing a Fiduciary

  • Often less flexible than other financial experts
  • Several people involved in decision making
  • More red tape

Looking for a Fiduciary to Purchase Annuities in Auburn Hills?

ABB Wealth Strategies has an expert team of fiduciaries with the tools to help you make the best financial decisions for your retirement. Give us a call today to learn more!