Retire with confidence
We investigate hundreds of annuities from top-rated insurance companies to find the best retirement annuity for you. Whether you want more income or growth without the risk of losses so you can retire with confidence, we can help.
We investigate annuities, so you can retire with confidence
We are independent investigators that investigate only top retirement annuities























Hear from our clients
Rated Excellent
Rated 4.9 | Based on 412 Trustpilot reviews
Ryan was extremely helpful and I
Ryan was extremely helpful and I learned a lot about annuities from our conversations.
- Mike
Go Gators!
It was my motto in college. And coincidentally I can still confidently use it in describing my interaction with Annuiy Gator’s Barbara Halperin! I found her to be an amazing advisor encompassing many superlatives. Super knowledgeable. Highly professional. No high pressure tactics. Concerned and individualized attention.In comparison to other financial meetings and dealings, my interaction with Barbara is right up there at the top of the list. I’m deeply grateful for being able to call on such a valuable resource.
- Larry
I say that quickly as many things are
I say that quickly as many things are still in process. However, so far, explanations have been excellent as things are progressing as quickly paper/emails, with responses all take time
- Angelyn
Andrew Wallop knows annuities!
One on one service with a knowledgeable person who listened to my needs and concerns. I was furnished many options and after several meetings and countless emails, I could weed out what was not the right options. Then Andrew let me know his evaluations on what was still on the table. I never felt rushed nor pressured into anything. I feel my retirement plans are taking shape. I will contact Andrew / Annuity gator when phase two is to be put into motion.
- Thomas
I am not an annuity fan but I must say
I am not an annuity fan but I must say the information garnered from your reps has got me seriously thinking about putting some of my money into an annuity.
- Jack
I really like Sylvia
I really like Sylvia. My situation is complicated and feel confident that she will see me through all my options
- Donna
Satisfied Customer Listened well and put me in touch with
Listened well and put me in touch with a great advisor who was able to meet my needs.
- Irene
Jerry Means did an excellent job
Jerry Means did an excellent job explaining annuities
- Dan
Jeff is excellent to work with and to plan with
I very much enjoyed working with Jeff Woodard. He is simple with the investment examples and keeps it real. There is no pressure to invest. Zoom calls are enjoyable and educational with plenty of information. I highly recommend learning, studying the investment strategies, and work with Jeff if you have questions.
- Michael
Great customer service
Great customer service. My adviser Eric Welty is very knowledgable and patient and he explains and answer all my questions.
- Alma
Scott was very knowledgeable and
Scott was very knowledgeable and explain annuities where I could understand. It was very pleasant and helpful on the phone and I would recommend him.
- Bonnie
Very knowledgeable on products
Very knowledgeable on products available.
- David
Annuity Review
Ryan is very informed with annuity options and was very helpful to me. I am just not ready to retire at this time.
- Daniel
Great
Great, he was very good .
- Customer
I ve worked with Terry for almost three
I ve worked with Terry for almost three years now and consider that s he s done an admirable job. He s answered all my questions and preempted many many more. My wife and I feel quite secure in the fact that the money we ve invested via Terry s recommendations will pay dividends in our retirement. More importantly, we can think about enjoying these next few years prior to retirement than wonder we ve set aside enough for a comfortable retirement. I can wholeheartedly recommend Terry if you re serious about your financial future and want to work with an honest straightforward individual who s interested in your financial success rather than maximizing his own profits.
- Enrique
Excellent information
Excellent information, explained well and no pressure.
- Suzanne
Lot of great advice.
Lot of great advice.
- Sal
Honest friendly advice
Very knowledgeable. Good professional advice.
- Mark
So far so good.
So far so good.
- Pradumnakumar
Very educational
Very educational. Took the time to really learn about our needs and answer questions. Built trust and rapport. James L. Robinson
- James
I received excellent service from Mark
I received excellent service from Mark Shelby.
- Lyn
I was provided very useful information
I was provided very useful information about different choices available for me to meet my financial goal. Thank you very much.
- Narayan
good service answered all my concerns
good service
- sri
Great service
Great service! Thank you
- Lana
Scott P was was excellent
Scott P was was excellent. Knowledgable and supportive, thank you!
- Dts
Service rep was the difference
Service rep Jeff Woodard was so helpful. He made the entire process so easy to understand. He was friendly,patient, and gave me the feeling that he was working for me, to try and get a good product within the constraints of my own personal financial situation.
- Ken
Very knowledgeable and solid advice
Very knowledgeable and solid advice. Great to work with. Very helpful.
- Karl
I have had the pleasure of working with
I have had the pleasure of working with Barbara Halperin on finding the best annuity for my needs and retirement goals. She made me feel comfortable and confident almost immediately. Her professionalism, extensive experience, and ability to not only give me multiple options to fit my situation but also explain it all in a way that I can understand is really unmatched and truly appreciated!
- Heather
Great service
It is pleasure to work with Larry. It seems he knowledgeable and professional. He give multiple options and clear explanation about Output value you may expect
- Lana
MANY ANNUITY OPTIONS
i had a very good experience working with Rick Sparkman… I was rather gun shy about attempting to search out another annuity, since my first encounter with annuities was with a financial advisor who knew little about the products and had very limited offerings.. Rick opened the gates to the many types of annuities that Annuity Gator has available.. Although, I thought the evaluation of these annuities difficult.. he made it seamless.. explaining to me which one best serves my needs.. I would recommend Rick to anyone interested in using annuities as another investment tool.
- Susan
Annuity Annual Performance
Barbara Halperin has been Exceptional revealing with my account.
- Frederic
Excellent explanation in detail the
Excellent explanation in detail the pros and cons of investing in annuities.
- vasilios
The agent was very respectful and
The agent was very respectful and knowledgeable regarding annuities. Since I had read Bank on Yourself by Pamela Yellen, it was easy to discuss the issues regarding annuities. There is a sense of security in listening to someone who knows what he is talking about void of ego.
- Mike
Great guy!!I really liked the person i was working
I really liked the person i was working with. He was knowledgeable, friendly and responsive.
- Cindy
Honest friendly advice
Very knowledgeable. Good professional advice.
- Mark
David Driggers; Honest, Knowledgeable, Effective Representation
David Driggers, An agent with Annuity Gator has demonstrated through his performance to be very knowledgeable of the many aspects surrounding Annuities; He carefully determines ones’ goals, researches the most beneficial polices that meet those goals, honestly communicates the positive and negative features to consider, patiently explains and answers all questions and generally works fiduciarily in the interest of his client. One can definitely feel confident in his representation.
- Thomas
Terry Ciotti with Annuity Gators A++++ guidance
Terry Ciotti with Annuity Gators was the best advisor I could have ever asked for. His honesty, professionalism, and guidance through the whole process was A+++. He didn’t rush me in any way. He answered all my questions, and I felt great about my decisions. He is my go to with Annuity Gators with any future endeavors. A very big Thank You!!
- Margaret
The have given prompt attention to my
The have given prompt attention to my questions.
- Dana
How do I increase my funds?
I started looking on line for a better interest rate than my bank. This was my first experience on line. It turned out beautiful. Sean was very knowledgeable and helpful. He knew his math and listened to what my needs were. He always gave several potions to choose from. Each was explained in great detail. The one I chose gave me an extended death benefit and an option if I became serious ill. I didn’t feel totally bound and not able to get my money. I was a little concerned since he didn’t have an office in my state or hometown. I have been with him for a year and am totally comfortable with my ability to talk to him when needed. This was money that was not needed in the near future yet I still could access it for a serious emergency. The entire plan seems to look out for all my worries. Sean spends the time with you! I am so lucky to have found this annuity. I did my due diligence an found this insurance company met my requirements. Sincerely, Rosemary J. Waldron
- Woody
The difference to me is having Ron
The difference to me is having Ron Allison at Annuity Gator by my side all the way through the entire process. I only hope this won’t be the last time I talk with this very kind, knowledgeable advisor. He is an asset to Annuity Gator and made me feel very comfortable even when I know I drove him crazy with all my multiple questions. He stood by me and understood my nervousness. I assure you I would not hesitate to call him again for another transfer. Thank you, Ron. L.Reynolds
- Linda
Excellent Service from Donna.
Donna was there with me every step of the way. She was very thorough about all the products and services available. She made me feel like I made good choices and know she will always be there for information and support.
- Paul
Our advisor Jim Van Meter
Our advisor, Jim Van Meter, is awesome. No high pressure sales. Just common sense advise. He does his homework and gets back to you on a timely manner.
- George
Excellent annuity service
Excellent support and service. I would highly recommend to anyone that needs an annuity.
- Mary
Training is very good
Training is very good, but you have to put the time in.
- Phillip
Very knowledgeable and solid advice
Very knowledgeable and solid advice. Great to work with. Very helpful.
- Karl
great experience
We worked with Cal Menzies at Annuity Gator. Cal was a pleasure to deal with and very informative and patient with all of our questions! We plan to continue to call on Cal for any future annuity needs. Highly recommended.
- Janet
Helpful and Educational
Ryan is very knowledgeable of the many options/strategies for buying annuities. He does a great job of explaining the details so that you can feel comfortable with the products.
- Scott
I got in touch with Terry at Annuity
I got in touch with Terry at Annuity Gator, was very pleased with his knowledge of annuity I’ve had one for years with another company. Needed someone’s honest opinion about rolling it over into another . Terry took his time and went over it with me. He told me to keep what I had, not to change a thing. How many sale people would tell you that, most are out for a % for what they sell.If you need help with an annuity, please get in touch with Terry, he’s honest and trustworthy.
- J
I was listened to rather than lectured
I was listened to rather than lectured to.!
- Alan
Consolation
Very friendly and informative
- Andre
Very knowledgeable advisor
Very knowledgeable advisor. Opened me to new products that I am able to review.
- James
Great source of info and service
Excellent service, great advice. I d recommend them to anyone looking for transparent and quality annuity advice.
- Mike
Scott was very knowledgeable
Scott was very knowledgeable. It was a good first call.
- Gary
Financial advisors, investment counselors, et al. and the problem of listening
Mr. Driggers’s strongest positive trait was his desire to please the client. He seemed very motivated to do that. He also seemed knowledgeable about the topic and the products available so he could offer good choices of products. Overall, I thought he did a very good job. I might attempt one constructive general comment that goes beyond Mr. Driggers. Personally, in my 74 years of life, I have never encountered an investment advisor, financial counselor, insurance salesperson et al. who listened to the client – except for one. They all talk a lot, often very amiably, but never really listened to me. This one individual who did listen sold insurance, and he was indeed unique. When he meant with us, the first thing he said was something like, “How are you doing? Tell me about yourself and your family. What are you thinking about? What are your needs and concerns? Why are you thinking about buying this product? And then he would listen and listen, taking a few notes, asking follow-up questions that, in retrospect were quite relevant to the business at hand. We ended up buying a large insurance policy from him, and remaining loyal to him until he retired. He apparently was quite successful as we received notices of the rewards and promotions he received. I am not a financial advisor. I don’t know much about it. But as a client, it makes sense to me that listening, asking appropriate questions, and trying to understand the clients needs, concerns, biases, feelings, and so on would be very important. Mr. Driggers did a fine job. If these comments are communicated to him, I hope he will not be offended but take them as an attempt at constructive ideas from a satisfied client.
- John
I hope you can experience this too
Humility: When I think of Sean in the context of humility, I recall observing Sean s acknowledgement that he doesn t always have all the answers. It s important, in the framework of a Financial Planner, that I work with a service provider that is self-aware enough to be willing to go the extra mile to find the answers. There has never been an occasion when he was not willing to find the answers and report them back in a short period of time, often, in the same day. In the bigger picture, I see Sean as more than just a Financial Planner. His roles as husband and father, as the quintessential family man, sets him apart from most. I have learned, through our conversations, that Sean s service to his clients is no different than how he lives his life. Through this service, he makes the lives of all the people he comes into contact with better. Perseverance: Understanding a family s financial goals and ability to make them takes more than a single email or phone conversation it takes perseverance. I remember the first time I sought out more information from Annuity Gator, Sean responded quickly, which is, lucky for his clients, his nature. While I wasn t ready to begin a new relationship, Sean understood the value of staying in touch with me. There came a point where I needed to include my wife in the conversation. Sean readily agreed and set aside a lot of time to be able to answer all of my wife s questions to her satisfaction. After our video conference with Sean, we finally agreed to pursue a relationship. I soon learned that annuities were not the only product Sean represented. Not because there was anything wrong with annuities, but because Sean knew that a well-balanced financial plan would necessarily include other options, initially, Insight Folios, and eventually other relevant cash options. With the use of the Simplicitree financial planning system and other tools, Sean was able to show us where we were, and what the future looked like. As Sean was getting to understand our concerns for our future financial health, we came to understand that Sean fully knew our financial goals. It was at that point that we knew that a lifelong partnership was emerging. We are grateful Sean never gave up on us and continues to value our relationship. Discipline: Sean Sparkman epitomizes the well-disciplined service-provider. Often, I am amazed at his quick responses to my inquiries, even when I have suggested that a fast reply was not necessary. As we placed more of our assets with products Sean recommended, he took the time to find the best products that filled our financial needs, never settling on the easiest solution. Over time, I have come to recognize that this gracious behavior is how Sean governs his business relationships. Without a doubt I feel lucky and better for it and have learned to value how Sean replies to my questions. Confidence: Confidence is a two-sided coin. On one side, there s the confidence that a client has in the development of a professional relationship. The other side is the service-provider s display of confidence in the nurturing of that relationship. This nurturing, this relationship of trust, is how the service-provider gains the confidence that provides a win-win for both parties. Sean confidently presented the best options for our financial plan. Early in our partnership, Sean showed that he had the financial acumen, and the product knowledge we needed to make informed decisions. He relentlessly searches for the best options that fit our specific needs. When I needed to ideas after the passing of my mother, Sean understood the requirements, and provided great solutions. Unsolicited: When I think of Sean Sparkman, I smile. I am grateful that Sean came into my life. There are a multitude of attributes I could use to describe Sean. Friend comes first and that s his doing. While he is our financial planner, our relationship has become more than that. I see Sean in the broader context of family man. I know that how he comports himself is governed by how he serves his family. And luckily for his clients, that same behavior gratefully spills over to how he treats his clients. I know I am better because of it. My financial plan is solid because of it. Our friendship is stronger because of it.
- JZ
Sean Sparkman, a true professional advisor
Sean Sparkman started with an education illustration on different types of annuity products. This overview gave me the confidence of choosing the best product for myself. Sean’s professional knowledge and listening skill were what I needed.
- Xin
Very knowledgeable!
Jason has been so helpful explaining the different types of annuities! We will definitely recommend Jason and Annuity Gator to our friends and family.
- Scott
Marcos is excellent
Marcos is excellent. Very knowledgeable, and explains all products in simple terms. Answered all questions, explanations made simple.
- Len
Brian Greco was just awesome to work
Brian Greco was just awesome to work with. He took his fiduciary responsibility seriously and gained my trust by being patient, clearly explaining all of my options and never pushing to sell me on anything. I really felt Brian listened to my needs and had my best interest at heart in making retirement planning decisions. His follow up, knowledge and customer service were outstanding as well. I highly recommend Brian!!
- Kelly
Annuity Gator is a Great Research Tool !!!
Possibly because I had rolled over a 401K to an annuity, I had begun getting a lot of other annuity sellers’ emails. One of them was Annuity Gator, but I did not know what they did. I realized that my annuity was not going to provide an income stream for 10 years so I contacted the “salesman” who sold me the annuity and I got nowhere. It took several phone calls to get the situation looked at and 4 months to get an answer. It was then I contacted Annuity Gator, but they wanted me to talk to one of their national representatives. I asked them to give me a local representative and that’s how I met Eli Mitcham over the phone. It was he who worked with me through the process which was difficult. After a lot of email correspondence and a lot of time, Eli’s diligence to undo the financial mess I was in paid off. His knowledge of the business is admirable. Eli is a knowledgeable and honest person and that is an awesome combination.
- Rosie
We couldn’t be more pleased!
Annuity Gator connected us with a real find, Sean Mason from Fresno Financial advisors. Sean is extremely knowledgeable, thoughtful and trustworthy, the exact type of professional we search for when it comes to consultants, from doctors to finance. Since we made contact with Sean via Annuity Gator a couple of months ago, we have established a wonderful working relationship with Sean and his great staff and completed several major transactions. We couldn’t be more pleased. Thank you, Annuity Gator.
- Barbara
Paige is wonderful!!!
Paige is wonderful. She explains everything no matter how long it takes. She is very knowledgeable about annuities and other financial areas. We are so glad we found her.
- Laura
They were very professional and
They were very professional and organized. They explained things to me very well and provided me with a great deal of relevant information during the decision process.
- John
Very helpful always answer my call.
Very helpful always answer my call.
- rita
James Ault is Excellent
James Ault, AnnuityGator Analyst, is a very honest and intelligent person who is very knowledgeable about investments, especially annuities. He is also very patient and takes the time to fully understand his customer and their goals. He also does an excellent job of explaining how the various annuities work and suggesting the best options for his customers.
- Jake
Excellent service
Excellent service, answered all my questions without being pushy
- Prem
Terrific explanation of annuities
Terrific explanation of annuities! Very helpful
- Kathy
Thank you
I was unfortunate to have had a very unqualified & dishonest financial advisor for my IRA investments including my Annuity. I was recommended by Fidelity to contact Annuity Gator for advice. I am fortunate to have been connected with Merrit Strunk as my advisor to advise about my inappropriate Annuity. He has shared his knowledge, expertise, & sincere caring attitude & attention to my situation. I am very grateful for his professional advice. Thank you!
- LS
I was in a position where I needed to move old 401k
I was in a position where I needed to move money from an old 401k into something more secure. Mark and his team provided me with all the information I needed to make an informed choice about the annuity I chose. The process and communication was very easy.
- Billy
Joe who help me was very knowledgeable.
Joe who help me was very knowledgeable. He was able to answer all my questions. I didn’t make a purchase but when I am ready your company will be one of the first one I seek out.
- Timothy
Tony help me transfer my 401k to
Tony help me transfer my 401k to annuity. Very much recommended
- Ronaldo
Matt Did a Great Job
Matt did a great job. He kept me informed, found good products and suggested alternatives. Also, he’s a pleasure to talk to on the phone.
- Fred
I received much good information to
I received much good information to think about during our conversations.
- Robert
My annuity gator experience
Hands on and very thorough from A to Z. They were able to answer all questions that came up. The whole process was painless smooth.
- Calvin
I had a fantastic phone discussion with
I had a fantastic phone discussion with John. He provided me with a great understanding of how annuities work.
- Catherine
How it
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Meet your Licensed Annuity Investigator online
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First, we gather basic information from you to understand your goals and determine if a certain retirement annuity is right for you.
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Last, you can retire with peace of mind and confidence knowing that you found the right retirement annuity that provides you the highest income and benefits.
How can we help you start your
annuity journey?
Let our Licensed Annuity Investigators get you started on the path to a comfortable retirement in three easy ways.
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How we are different…
We don’t confuse you with fancy brochures or complicated charts and graphs. We keep it simple with
honest guidance, full transparency, and personalized recommendations, all without high-pressure
sales tactics, in-person meetings, or complicated insurance jargon.
We focus relentlessly on three areas:
Honest guidance
Best annuities
Personalization
Honest guidance
We give it to you straight. We don’t hide anything or avoid conversations about fees, commissions, or fine print. Our Licensed Annuity Investigators provide full transparency, answer all your questions, and give honest guidance so you can retire with confidence.
Best annuities
With our technology-driven approach, we can investigate hundreds of top annuities from multiple top-rated insurance companies. Our Licensed Annuity Investigators can help you understand your options and feel confident you have found the best retirement annuity for your situation to financially prepare for a comfortable and worry-free retirement.
Personalization
There is no one-size-fits-all annuity. The right annuity for your retirement depends on your goals, needs, and desired retirement outcome. Our Licensed Annuity Investigators can help you customize a strategy that helps you reach your desired outcome with minimal effort from you.
Need help finding the right annuity?
We have over 100 retirement annuities in our review database.
FAQs
What are annuities, and how do they work in retirement planning?
Annuities are financial products offered by an issuing insurance company that can help you convert your retirement savings into a guaranteed income stream. They are often used as part of retirement planning to ensure you have enough money to cover your expenses throughout retirement. Depending on the type of annuity—such as fixed annuities, variable annuities, or deferred income annuities—you can receive guaranteed lifetime income, tax-deferred growth, and protection from market declines. These products can be tailored to meet your investment objectives and provide regular payments, either immediately or in the future, based on your needs.
What is the difference between fixed and variable annuities, and can I lose money with them?
Fixed annuities provide a guaranteed rate of return and predictable payments, making them a safer option for those seeking stability. Variable annuities, on the other hand, offer underlying investment options tied to market performance, which means your account value may fluctuate. While fixed annuities protect your principal, variable annuities carry market risk, so it’s possible to lose money depending on how the investments perform. Both types may include additional features like a death benefit or a guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit for an extra fee.
How do taxes work with annuities, and what is tax deferral?
Annuities offer tax-deferred growth, meaning you don’t pay taxes on earnings until you withdraw them. When you take distributions, they are taxed as ordinary income rather than capital gains. This can help your retirement nest egg grow faster compared to taxable accounts. However, early withdrawals may incur surrender charges and additional penalties. It’s important to consult a licensed insurance agency or tax professional for personalized tax advice before making decisions about an annuity.
What should I consider when evaluating a retirement annuity?
When evaluating retirement annuities, consider reviewing unbiased reviews and analyses to understand the pros and cons of each product. Websites like AnnuityGator.com provide independent reviews to help you make informed decisions. Look at the financial strength of the issuing insurance company, such as York Life Insurance Company, as their claims-paying ability is crucial for honoring guarantees like guaranteed lifetime income. Also, evaluate the fees, investment options, and any additional features like cost-of-living adjustments that align with your retirement goals.
What happens to my annuity if I pass away?
Many retirement annuities include a death benefit that ensures any remaining contract value or specified funds are passed on to your beneficiaries. Some contracts also allow you to choose income options that continue payments to a spouse or heir after your death. The specifics vary depending on the type of annuity and the terms outlined by the issuing corporation. Be sure to review these details carefully when purchasing an annuity to ensure it aligns with your legacy planning goals.
See How Stephen Turned His 401(K) Into a Guaranteed Lifetime Income and Can Now Retire with Confidence