73: Should You Buy an Annuity in 2026?

Are annuities really “rubbish” — or are they making a comeback?In this episode of Retire, Matthew and Joe break down everything you need to know about annuities, from how they work to who they’re actually suited for in today’s retirement landscape. Rather than jumping straight into products, they step back to explore the bigger question: what do you actually want from your retirement income — certainty, flexibility, or a mix of both?They cover:What an annuity is in simple termsWhy annuities have had a resurgence since interest rates rose post-2022Who might benefit most (and who might not)The pros and cons compared to drawdownKey options explained: single vs joint life, guarantee periods, inflation linkingHow health and lifestyle can impact your income (enhanced annuities)Why shopping around on the open market is crucialWhether you can change your mind once you’ve bought onePlus, they explore practical strategies like blending annuities with flexible drawdown and phasing into guaranteed income over time — helping you build a retirement plan that balances peace of mind with flexibility.Whether you’re approaching retirement or just starting to think about your options, this episode will help you make more confident, informed decisions about your pension.📩 Got questions or want help with your own retirement plan?Email us at: [email protected] UP FOR OUR LIVE Q&Ahttps://www.retirewellpodcast.co.uk/events--CHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction04:14 - Who should consider an annuity?09:45 - Mechanics of an Annuity11:00 - How do provides calculate an annuity rate?14:21 - How to ensure your annuity does die with you 19:50 - How much does an increasing annuity cost?24:26 - Am I able to get a higher income if I am ill?27:15 - Listeners Question: 27:15--TALK TO USCall us: 0191 384 1008Email us: [email protected]: www.retirewellpodcast.co.uk--SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTERwww.retirewellpodcast.co.uk---Wealth of Advice are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, reference number 563909. Past performance is no guide to future returns. Your investments can go down as well as up, so you may get back less than you originally invested. This video is for educational purposes only and is not personal financial advice.