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 it always better to wait to claim Social Security?

Not always. Delaying increases your monthly benefit, but the right choice depends on your health, other income sources, tax picture, and spousal considerations. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

How do spousal and survivor benefits work?

A spouse may be able to claim a benefit based on the other spouse’s record, and survivor benefits can continue for a surviving spouse. Coordinating the two claims is an important part of timing.

Video Library

Social Security Educational VideoComing Soon

When Should You Claim Social Security?

Claiming early, on time, or delaying — how the timing decision can change your lifetime benefits.

June 9, 2026 11 minSocial Security

Video Coming Soon

This episode is in production. Read the summary below, or schedule a free review with Tim in the meantime.

About this video

When you claim Social Security can meaningfully change your lifetime benefits. This video covers the key levers — full retirement age, the effect of claiming early or delaying, and how spousal and survivor benefits factor in.

It’s educational only; your own decision should weigh your health, other income, and your spouse’s situation.

Transcript

A full transcript will be published here once this video is released. Prefer to read? Explore the related guides below for the same material in written form.

Frequently Asked

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The Social Security Planning Guide

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Topic Hub

Explore all Social Security resources

Apply This to Your Own Plan

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