What is a fixed annuity?

A fixed annuity is a contract with an insurance company that credits a set interest rate on your money and can provide an income stream for life. Your principal is protected from market losses. Any guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company and are not FDIC insured.

How does a fixed-indexed annuity work?

A fixed-indexed annuity credits interest based on the performance of a market index like the S&P 500, but your principal is not directly invested in the market. A 0% floor means index declines do not reduce your principal, while gains are credited up to a cap. Principal protection and any guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company and are not FDIC insured.

How much does it cost to work with Tim Hartle?

There is no out-of-pocket cost to you. Tim is compensated through commissions paid by the insurance carriers, not by you directly. The consultation is completely free with no obligation.

Is my money safe in an annuity?

Fixed and fixed-indexed annuities protect your principal from market losses. Guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Tim only works with highly rated carriers rated A- or better.

Can I access my money if I need it?

Most fixed annuities allow penalty-free withdrawals of up to 10% of the account value per year. Surrender charges may apply to withdrawals beyond this amount during the surrender charge period, which typically lasts 5-10 years.

I inherited an annuity — what should I do?

Inherited annuities have specific IRS rules about required distributions, tax treatment, and deadlines depending on your relationship to the original owner. Making the wrong choice can cost thousands in unnecessary taxes. Tim Hartle offers a free inherited annuity review to help you understand all your options before making any decisions. Call (727) 692-5866.

My annuity broker retired or is no longer available — what do I do?

If your original broker has retired, moved, or left the business, you are not stuck. You can work with a new independent advisor who can review your existing policy, explain what you have, and help you make the most of it. Tim Hartle provides free policy reviews for clients in this situation throughout the Tampa Bay area.

Can someone review my existing annuity for free?

Yes. Tim Hartle offers completely free annuity policy reviews for residents of Pinellas, Pasco, and Hillsborough County. Whether you inherited a policy, lost touch with your broker, or simply haven't reviewed your annuity in years, Tim will go through your policy with you at no cost and no obligation. Call (727) 692-5866 to schedule.

What's the most reliable retirement income source?

Social Security and pensions are the most predictable because they pay a set amount for life. Guaranteed income products can add a similar layer of reliability.

Should all my income be guaranteed?

Most plans blend guaranteed income for essentials with flexible income for discretionary spending. The right mix depends on your situation.

How do I know if I have enough income?

Compare your expected income against your essential and lifestyle expenses. A Retirement Income Review can help you see any gaps.

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Retirement Income Cornerstone Guide

Retirement Income Sources Explained

A clear breakdown of every place your retirement paycheck can come from — and how to combine them into one dependable income.

Updated June 8, 2026 9 min readRetirement Income

Original infographic in development: Retirement Income Sources Explained

Most retirees don't live on a single income source — they assemble a paycheck from several. Understanding each one is the first step to combining them well.

This guide explains the major retirement income sources, what's predictable versus variable, and how they complement each other.

Pensions and employer plans

Defined-benefit pensions and how they factor into your income floor.

Savings and investments

Drawing income from IRAs, 401(k)s, and brokerage accounts.

Guaranteed income products

How annuities can add a personal pension, with guarantees subject to the insurer's claims-paying ability.

Combining sources into one paycheck

Layering predictable and flexible income to cover both essentials and extras.

This guide is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Tim Hartle is an independent insurance professional. Annuity guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company and are not FDIC insured. Rules and product features vary by situation and by state. Please consult a qualified advisor about your own circumstances.

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