What Is A Life Insurance Annuity? 
An annuity issued by a life insurance company is an income for life . That said , there are numerous ways that income can be taken . For example , immediate annuities as their name implies start when funds are deposited with the insurance company . Deferred annuities start at some future date , say on retirement for example . Annuities can also be designed to last for one annuitant 's lifetime at a fixed amount , or for a guaranteed number of years . These are just a few of the options that are available . To learn about what 's best for you , speak to an independent agent familiar with many carriers and their choices . 