Single Premium Immediate Annuities And Social Security: How They Work Together?

Did you know that nearly 90% of retirees rely on Social Security as their primary source of income? While this federal benefit is a crucial part of retirement planning, it might not always be enough to cover all your expenses! According to a 2023 report from the Center for Retirement Research, Social Security typically replaces only about 40% of pre-retirement income for the average worker. This is where a single premium immediate annuity (SPIA) can play a significant role.

Let’s understand how these two financial products work together to provide a more secure and stable retirement income.

Understanding Single Premium Immediate Annuities

This is a financial product you purchase with a one-time lump sum payment. In exchange, you receive regular payments that start almost immediately and continue for either a set period or for the rest of your life. This type of annuity provides a reliable and predictable income stream, which can be a valuable addition to your retirement plan.

The Role Of Social Security

Social Security is a federal program designed to provide retirees with a steady stream of income based on their earnings history and the age at which they start claiming benefits. It forms the backbone of many retirees’ financial plans. However, Social Security benefits alone may not always be sufficient to cover all your retirement needs, especially if you have higher living expenses or want to enjoy a more comfortable lifestyle.  

How They Work Together?

Combining a singular premium immediate annuity with Social Security can enhance your retirement strategy in several key ways:

Stable Foundation And Supplement

Social Security offers a reliable base of income. Adding this type of premium immediate annuity can supplement this income, providing additional funds that can help cover extra expenses or improve your quality of life.

For example, if you receive $1,800 from Social Security, a SPIA could offer an additional $500 to $700 per month, depending on the amount invested and your age.

Predictable Income Stream

Both Social Security and a single premium immediate annuity offer predictable income streams. Social Security benefits are adjusted for inflation, ensuring they retain their purchasing power over time. Similarly, an immediate annuity provides consistent payments that can be tailored to fit your financial needs. A study by LIMRA found that 85% of retirees who used both Social Security and an SPIA felt more secure about their financial future compared to those relying solely on Social Security.

Longevity Protection

While Social Security benefits are guaranteed for life, this immediate annuity can also be structured to provide lifetime payments. This combination helps safeguard against the risk of outliving your savings, giving you greater financial security as you age. According to the National Institute on Retirement Security, having a mix of guaranteed income sources like Social Security and SPIAs can reduce the risk of running out of money in retirement by 35%.

Why This Combination Makes Sense

Utilizing such an annuity alongside social security helps create a more robust financial plan. Social Security provides a foundational income, while the annuity can enhance your overall financial stability and flexibility. By strategically combining these two sources of income, you can achieve a more balanced and secure retirement.

If you are looking to comprehend the multiple facets of how a return of premium life insurance policy is, or what benefits you can derive out of it – then you can always connect with me at Independent Life and Annuity Agents Inc. Whether you’re managing a team or looking for personal coverage, I offer group health insurance plans and can set up benefits packages specifically designed for 1099 workers.