Retirement
Annuities
Insurance contracts that may pay periodic income for a term or for life, depending on the product.
Investment values can fluctuate. Returns are not guaranteed. Past performance does not predict future results.
What it is
An annuity is a contract with an insurance company where you pay a lump sum or series of payments in exchange for future income payments.
Options may include fixed payments, indexed payments, joint-life coverage, and guarantee periods. Terms are defined in the contract.
Who may want to learn about it
- You may want to learn about annuities if you are exploring predictable income sources in retirement alongside other accounts.
Common considerations
Risk and volatility
Market-based investments can lose value. Returns are not guaranteed and past performance does not predict future results.
Fees and compensation
Management fees, sales charges, and other costs reduce net returns. Ask how compensation is structured.
Time horizon
Longer horizons may allow more volatility, but suitability depends on your goals and other holdings.
Tax treatment
Registered accounts have rules for contributions, withdrawals, and attribution. Tax rules can change.
Liquidity
Annuities may limit access to principal once income starts, depending on the contract.
Issuer strength
Payments depend on the financial strength of the insurance company issuing the annuity.
What to bring to a consultation
- Government-issued photo ID and contact information
- List of existing registered accounts (TFSA, RRSP, RESP, etc.)
- Recent account statements or contribution summaries, if available
- General time horizon and goal categories (education, retirement, savings)
- Employer pension or group plan summaries, if applicable
- Questions about fees, risk tolerance categories, and tax treatment (for advisor discussion)
This page is for general educational information only and does not replace advice from a licensed professional. SEENCO Financial Services Inc. does not guarantee approval, payout, savings, returns, or performance.
Related pages
Frequently asked questions
Guarantees depend on the contract and issuer. SEENCO does not guarantee annuity payments or investment performance.
Speak with a licensed SEENCO advisor
Request a consultation in plain language — no pressure, no commitment. A licensed advisor can review options when you are ready.