Annuities have been a hot topic for quite some time now. These complex products carry many shapes and sizes, and the level of understanding at the media and consumer level could be fairly low. Because of this, the information that you find on annuities tends to be skewed and/or negative. So, are annuities good? Or are they bad? Should you own one, or should you stay away? Annuities are financial vehicles that are designed to produce secure income streams for the client who owns it, and if you are a retiree or pre-retiree that will need stable income to add to your income scenario, than you absolutely should consider annuities for a part of your portfolio. But what do you need to know? Here are 8 key facts about annuities that should help you out!

The Retirement Ready radio show is featured every Saturday on WTMJ 620 AM at 1:00 pm. We will bring you information on: Social Security options, retirement trends, options to retire with life changes and achieving a secure financial future. Listen live: www.wtmj.com/listen-live

Investment advisory services provided by Drake & Associates, LLC, a State of Wisconsin registered investment adviser. Insurance products are offered through a separate company, LOFT Financial Advisory Group, LLC, a Wisconsin Insurance agency, clients are under no obligation to purchase any recommended insurance products. Advice and opinions expressed during Retirement Ready are solely that of the hosts or guests of Drake & Associates, LLC and not WTMJ Radio or Good Karma Brands Milwaukee, LLC.