Annuity tables

Annuity tables are simply comparison charts of annuity contracts based on the annuity rate you are being offered. They are by far the most used tool for choosing annuity contract, but they are not the only tool. Which is to say, one should look at factor other than rates and the annuity table when purchasing a pension annuity.

Annuity tables are catered to your specific requirements. Thus, before you are shown an annuity table, you will be asked questions that help determine what kind of rates you are likely to receive from different providers. These questions will generally be along the lines of the pension amount; the type of policy; smoker/non-smoker; male/female; age; joint or single-life and where you live. Generally, you can presume that the more questions asked, the more specific results you will get.

Tables are also generally comprehensive, but should not be taken at face value. For one, not all tables include all details of all providers. Many leave out small-time providers, focussing only on the big ones. Also, depending on how tailored your results are (how many questions you were asked), you may find that many options were left out. Therefore, it’s best to check multiple tables from different sources to get the bigger picture.

Secondly, the values and incomes presented are not allows exact and correct. Before making a decision, you should contact the company to verify what the exact figures are to avoid being disappointed and facing rude shocks.