Gonna stick my neck out here to invite some flaming. I think many of the anti-annuity comments here don't consider the human factor. Some people don't have the financial expertise that many have here. Like me, they find a financial advisor that they trust (like finding a competent mechanic or surgeon) and develop an educated plan together, with me self-advocating trying to understand as much as I can. Alone, I can not navigate all the investment options, tax management, Roth conversions, loop holes, retirement path, elder care.............................
Again, my annuity program with TIAA was over 40 years in the making and is only 1/3 of my very diversified portfolio which we developed to satisfy my wants and needs regarding growth, risk, and comfort level. All this time, TIAA advisors charge nothing to meet as much as I want, but I DO admit and know that even as a fiduciary, TIAA IS suggesting ways that are best for TIAA also.
The OP should research this beyond this site and make a decision based on his unique personal circumstances.
