Why compare annuity rates?
What are your annuity options?
- Lifetime Annuity
Offers you a guaranteed income for life. Your adviser will take you through your purchase options - including if you are looking for a Single Life or Joint Life. - Fixed Term Annuity
A great option for bridging to your state pension. A fixed term annuity pays a guaranteed income for a set term (e.g. 5 or 10 years). - Escalating Annuity
Protecting against inflation Starts lower, but increases by a set amount (e.g. 3% per year) - Enhanced Annuity
A solid option if you have health or lifestyle risks. An enhanced annuity pays up to 30% more if you qualify (e.g. for high blood pressure, diabetes, or smoking history). - Pension Drawdown
As an alternative to purchasing an annuity, you can choose to keep your pension invested and draw income as needed. The income isn’t guaranteed and value can go up or down, but this option gives you more control over how much to take and when.
It’s important to speak to a pension adviser who can look at your personal situation and recommend the best option for your retirement.
Things to consider
- Annuity rates vary between providers
Different providers offer different incomes, so it pays to shop around. - Once purchased, you usually can’t change it
Once set up, you usually can’t change or switch your annuity. - Inflation risk
A level annuity won’t rise with the cost of living unless you choose an inflation-linked option. - Less flexible than drawdown
Annuities provide security, but drawdown may offer more flexibility (with more risk).
Why expert advice on annuities matters
- Compare annuity rates across the UK market - providers don’t always offer their best rates upfront, and the difference between the highest and lowest can add up to thousands of pounds over your lifetime.
- Check if you qualify for an enhanced annuity – health conditions, lifestyle factors, or even medication could mean you’re entitled to up to 30% more income than a standard rate.
- Help you blend annuities and drawdown - many retirees choose a mix: an annuity for guaranteed essentials, and drawdown for flexibility and growth. An adviser can tailor the balance to your goals.
How it works?
Why use our service?
Making decisions about your pension is important, and getting the right advice can make all the difference. Our service connects you with trusted, FCA-regulated advisers who are ready to help you navigate your pension choices.
- Free and impartial - There’s no charge for using our service — we’ll match you with a qualified adviser at no cost to you.
- Quick and convenient - It takes less than a minute to be matched with an adviser who understands your needs.
- Advisers near you - Our nationwide network means you’ll be connected with someone local, so you can choose how and when to speak.
Our expert adviser network
All of the advisers we work with are FCA-authorised and regulated.
Frequently asked questions
An annuity is a financial product that converts your pension pot into a guaranteed income, usually paid for life.
They can be, especially if you value certainty and want to make sure your essential costs are always covered. An adviser can help you compare options and decide if it’s right for you.
Yes. In most cases, you can take up to 25% of your pension pot tax-free before using the rest to buy an annuity.
Yes and the difference can be significant. That’s why it’s important to shop around and get advice before committing.
Absolutely. Many people use an annuity for secure income and drawdown for flexibility, giving them the best of both worlds.
[2] According to research conducted by Royal London and ILC
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