How To Annuitize A Variable Annuity? 
That is a great question ! Deferred Annuities have two stages to them - an accumulation phase , where the contract accumulates growth , and an annuitization stage , where it begins to pay out , or `` annuitize '' . Your contract should specify how long your accumulation phase lasts , and for how long your payments will last . Eachannuity can vary in what your options are to start your payment streams , so contact your agent and have them review what your contract allows . Generally if you do nothing , they begin to pay out automatically when you hit a specified age . Contact your agent , to be certain that you can begin your payments without any issues , okay ? Thanks for asking ! 