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Sep 17, 2026 13 min

Disadvantages of Deferred Annuities Explained

from Retire For Less With The Annuity Expert

In this completely unfiltered video, Shawn from The Annuity Expert breaks down the major disadvantages across every major type of deferred annuity. He exposes hidden pitfalls in Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities (MYGAs)—such as low-rated carrier risks, restrictive renewal terms, and unexpected surrender charges on death benefits. Shawn also analyzes Fixed Index Annuities (FIAs), noting that while they protect against stock market crashes, they limit upside potential and come with multi-year surrender schedules. Furthermore, Shawn issues strong warnings regarding Variable Annuities and Registered Index-Linked Annuities (RILAs). He explains why Variable Annuities charge excessive 3% to 4% annual fees and often force unwanted annuitization through rigid income riders. He also critiques RILAs, showing why risking your principal for slightly higher upside caps is an unnecessary gamble. Instead, Shawn details his "Separation of Church and State" approach: keeping growth assets in a low-fee market portfolio while using a top-tier Fixed Index Annuity strictly for safe growth and guaranteed lifetime income. 👉 Read our full guide on deferred annuities and compare contract features here: https://www.annuityexpertadvice.com/types-of-annuities/deferred-annuity 📞 Call our team for free, no-obligation advice to safely evaluate your deferred annuity options at: 770-755-1565 ⏱️ Video Chapters: 0:00 - Intro: What are the disadvantages of a deferred annuity? 0:31 - Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities (MIGAs) and their hidden pitfalls 2:51 - Fixed Index Annuities (FIAs): Upside limits and surrender periods 6:09 - Variable Annuities: The high-fee trap (3%–4% fees) and GMIB annuitization 7:04 - "Separation of Church and State" strategy for investments and annuities 8:55 - RILA Annuities: Why losing principal for slightly higher caps is a gimmick 10:24 - IRS age 59½ early withdrawal penalty & Return of Premium (ROP) options 11:55 - Final Verdict: Why independent brokers beat big-box financial advisors

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This episode was published on September 17, 2026.

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