Due to the economic climate in this country over the past few years, many have lost significant amounts of dollars in their 401k or other retirement vehicles. If you are one of these folks, then you need to consider what an Indexed Annuity can do for you.

Many Insurance carriers offer annuities as part of their portfolios. Annuities are issued by Insurance companies and can be an extremely powerful part of your retirement plans.

No one should ever put all their eggs in one basket, so to speak, but an annuity should definitely be considered as part of your portfolio, funds permitting. Losses in retirements funds can sometimes be recouped over time but, you need to consider how long it took you to actually see your funds restored and your age. For example, if you are 50 or older and you had $200,000 sitting in your retirement plan and you lost 50% of your accumulated funds, you aren't a very happy camper! Now you have only half of the money left in your account, and you are faced with waiting to see if the economy turns around and maybe the 401k etc will begin to show earnings once again. Well, you could end up losing even more or you could transfer the account, or at least a portion of the account, to an indexed annuity. In many cases, indexed annuities can offer significant bonuses on the amount transferred, while giving you the opportunity to have part or all of your money subject to earnings based on market performance. Some of the indicators used are S&P & Nasdaq. Your dollars are never directly in the market but you can benefit from earnings based on the markets performance.

And here is one of the best features. Even if the markets tank in any given year, you can"t go backwards as your accumulated value will stay right where it's at. Of course if you pull your funds out to take a vacation or put a roof on your house, you will be hit with a surrender penalty. You need to always keep in mind that retirement funds are for retirement and not for vacations etc.

Do yourself a favor and at least look at the possibilities these annuities can offer to you.

For more information on Indexed Annuities visit FindMeAPlan.com.