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.

Is 55 too early to plan retirement income?

Not at all — it's an ideal time. Planning a decade out gives you flexibility you won't have if you wait until you're about to retire.

What are catch-up contributions?

Once you turn 50, the IRS allows higher contribution limits to retirement accounts so you can save more in your final working years.

Should I reduce risk at 55?

Many people begin shifting toward protecting their savings as retirement approaches, so a market downturn doesn't derail their plans.

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Retirement Income Cornerstone Guide

Retirement Planning at Age 55

At 55, you have a powerful 10-year runway. Here's how to use it to build a retirement income plan with confidence.

Updated June 8, 2026 9 min readRetirement Income

Original infographic in development: Retirement Planning at Age 55

Fifty-five is a pivotal age: retirement is close enough to plan concretely, but far enough that your decisions still have time to compound.

This guide covers the moves that matter most in your mid-fifties, from catch-up savings to starting your income plan.

Where you should be at 55

A realistic checkpoint for savings, debt, and your retirement vision.

Maximizing catch-up contributions

Using the extra contribution room available after 50 to accelerate savings.

Starting your income plan early

Why beginning income planning a decade out gives you more options.

Protecting what you've built

Reducing risk as you approach retirement so a downturn doesn't reset your timeline.

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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