When it comes to types of investments, annuities are often misunderstood. Annuities can play an important role in your retirement plan because it’s not just about saving, it’s also about generating a steady stream of income so you can retire comfortably.
Are annuities right for you? Here are some 3 myths debunked that may help you with your decision:
- All annuities are the same. Annuities come in many forms and options. They are divided into two general categories based on when income distributions are scheduled to begin:
- Deferred annuities –With a lump sum payment or a series of premium payments, you defer the payout by having your money invested for a period of time until you’re ready to take withdrawals (typically in retirement).
- Immediate annuities –With a lump sum payment upfront, your income stream begins right away (no accumulation period) and continues for the remainder of your life or for a specified period of time.
- Annuities are expensive. While there are fees associated with annuities, it doesn’t mean all annuities are expensive. Keep in mind that the fees can vary depending on the services and features it offers. You will want to a full understanding of the type of annuity you’re considering and then weighing it against your other options.
- The insurance company will keep all my money when I die. In the event of your death, there are annuities that offers the option to have your income payments or account value passed onto your beneficiaries.
As your dedicated team, we’re here to educate and guide you through life’s transitions and the difficult decisions that come with it. Contact us at 855-987-8888 to learn more about how annuities can fit in your retirement plan.
Pesto Zoodles
“Zoodles”, the zucchini version of noodles that makes for a healthier and delicious alternative. This is the perfect meal for those busy nights when you need something healthy, filling and quick.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 small zucchini, cut into noodle-shape strands
- 1/2 cup drained and rinsed canned garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
- 3 tablespoons pesto, or to taste
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons shredded white Cheddar cheese, or to taste
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook and stir zucchini until tender and liquid has evaporated, 5 to 10 minutes.
- Stir garbanzo beans and pesto into zucchini; lower heat to medium-low. Cook and stir until garbanzo beans are warm and zucchini is evenly coated, about 5 minutes; season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer zucchini mixture to serving bowls and top with white Cheddar cheese.
Recipe adapted from AllRecipes1
The 2-2-2 Rule
In the rough…again? No worries – the rough isn’t tough with this simple rule for better contact. Next time you’re hitting from less-than-ideal grass, try the 2-2-2 rule when you line up:
- Choke down on your club 2 inches.
- Move the ball is 2 inches back in your stance compared to where it normally is.
- Drop your front foot back 2 inches.
Tips adapted from Men’s Health2
Food for Your Pearly Whites
There are many foods that stain our teeth, but there are many that do the exact opposite. Not only can the right foods and drinks help remove stains and make your teeth whiter, but some can also strengthen them.
Add some of these to your menu:
- Plain yogurt is rich in calcium, which is essential in strengthening the outer layer of teeth, the enamel, to give them their whiteness.
- Apples’ crunchy texture helps scrub away the plaque that can leave your teeth looking dull. The chewing also boosts the production of saliva, which helps keep plaque from developing.
- Milk, like plain yogurt, is a top source of both calcium and phosphorus that is necessary in building stronger bones, whiter teeth included.
- Strawberries may seem like they’d stain your teeth because of their red pigment, but as a matter of fact, they contain an enzyme called malic acid that works as a natural astringent to remove surface discoloration.
Tips adapted from Greatist3
