What Is a Life-Only Annuity? episode artwork

EPISODE · May 14, 2026 · 7 MIN

What Is a Life-Only Annuity?

from Retire For Less With The Annuity Expert

Are you considering a "Life-Only" annuity because it offers the absolute highest monthly payout? Before you sign the contract, you need to understand exactly what happens to your life savings if you pass away early! In this video, Shawn Plummer from The Annuity Expert gives a brutally honest breakdown of how Life-Only annuities actually work. Shawn explains the concept of "annuitization"—the irrevocable process of trading your lump sum for a guaranteed stream of income. While a Life-Only payout structure will guarantee you the highest possible paycheck for as long as you live, there is a massive catch: if you get hit by a bus in year five, the insurance company keeps every single penny of your remaining money, leaving zero death benefit for your family!But don't panic! Shawn reveals three brilliant workarounds to protect your heirs. You can pair the annuity with a cheap term life insurance policy, add a "Period Certain" or "Cash Refund" clause, or skip annuitization entirely by using a Fixed Index Annuity with a Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit (GLWB) so you never lose control of your lump sum!👉 Read our complete, unbiased guide to Life Annuities right here:https://www.annuityexpertadvice.com/types-of-annuities/life-annuity/👉 Run your own math and calculate your exact guaranteed lifetime payout here:https://www.annuityexpertadvice.com/annuity-calculator-2/📞 Need a free, objective review to find the perfect income strategy for your retirement? Call us at: 770-755-1565

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What Is a Life-Only Annuity?

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This episode is 7 minutes long.

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This episode was published on May 14, 2026.

What is this episode about?

Are you considering a "Life-Only" annuity because it offers the absolute highest monthly payout? Before you sign the contract, you need to understand exactly what happens to your life savings if you pass away early! In this video, Shawn Plummer from...

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