Tax Planning for Annuities
Taxation of premiums
The after-tax money you pay into an annuity (in the form of premiums) is nondeductible. By placing funds in an annuity, you will not realize any current income tax savings, which you might receive by putting money into a traditional IRA, 401(k) plan, or other employer-sponsored retirement plan.
Tax-deferred growth
Unlike most investments, an increase in the value of an annuity from interest is not currently taxable. Generally, annuity funds are allowed to grow tax deferred until they’re distributed, at which time the owner will pay ordinary income tax on all gains.
Taxation of premature withdrawals
Withdrawals taken before age 59½ may be subject to a 10 percent IRS penalty tax unless an exception applies. When you make a withdrawal from an annuity, the IRS assumes that earnings are withdrawn first. The 10 percent penalty applies to the earnings portion of a withdrawal. So, early withdrawals are costly from a tax standpoint.
For example, if your annuity has grown by $1,000 since you purchased it, a $500 withdrawal would be considered 100 percent interest and would be subject to the 10 percent penalty–in this case, $50. In addition, because the entire withdrawal represents earnings, it would be subject to ordinary income tax. If you are in the 25 percent tax bracket, your income tax liability on the withdrawal would be $125. Adding this to the early withdrawal penalty, $175 of your $500 withdrawal would end up in the IRS’s pocket.
Taxation of scheduled distributions
If you choose an annuitization option, you will begin receiving regular distributions from your annuity over a predetermined period of time. Each distribution consists of two components: principal (a return of the money you paid into the annuity) and earnings. The percentages of principal and earnings of each distribution will depend on the annuitization option chosen. Again, the earnings portion of each distribution will be treated as ordinary income. Also, depending on the annuitization option chosen, the 10 percent penalty rule may not apply.
Note: Annuity guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the annuity issuer.
Note: Variable annuities are long-term investments suitable for retirement funding and are subject to market fluctuations and investment risk including the possibility of loss of principal. Variable annuities contain fees and charges including, but not limited to mortality and expense risk charges, sales and surrender (early withdrawal) charges, administrative fees and charges for optional benefits and riders. Variable annuities are sold by prospectus. You should consider the investment objectives, risk, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus, which contains this and other information about the variable annuity, can be obtained from the insurance company issuing the variable annuity, or from your financial professional. You should read the prospectus carefully before you invest.
Taxation of lump-sum distributions
Taking a lump-sum distribution of your annuity funds can have many consequences. If you make this election within the first few years after purchasing your annuity, you may be subject to surrender charges imposed by the issuer. In any case, the earnings portion of the distribution will be treated as ordinary income in the year you take the distribution. Also, keep in mind that a large lump-sum distribution could actually push you into a higher tax bracket, dramatically increasing your tax liability.
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This material is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. There is no assurance that the views or strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. CDs are FDIC Insured to specific limits and offer a fixed rate of return if held to maturity, whereas investing in securities is subject to market risk including loss of principal. This material was prepared by LPL Financial.
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investment(s) may be appropriate for you, consult your financial advisor prior to investing. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly.
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