Annuity payments can be lifesavers – they provide ongoing financial support and stability. However, there can be times when those payments are simply not enough to help you meet your financial obligations. It would be nice to have the entire lump sum that your annuity entitles you to, but how can you go about doing that? One option available is to sell your annuity. Below, you’ll find information to understand when deciding whether to sell annuity payments or not.
It Will Take Time
One of the factors you’re going to have to consider here is time. If you’re pressed for cash right now, then selling your annuity might not be the right decision. The process does take time – generally about 30 days, though sometimes it can be longer depending on your situation, local jurisdiction and the court’s decision about selling the payments. When deciding whether to sell annuity payments, the time factor should certainly be considered. If you cannot wait, then you should look into other options.
A Range of Options
When deciding whether to sell annuity payments, you should also take the time to determine exactly what you want to do. Do you need a small amount of money to make ends meet? If this is the case, then you can sell only part of your annuity. If you need a larger sum of money, you can sell a larger share of your annuity, up to the entire amount due you over time. If you decide to sell your entire annuity amount, you will no longer be entitled to any payments beyond the lump sum offered by the purchaser.
Potential Fees
There are other considerations when deciding whether to sell your annuity. For instance, there can be high fees involved called “surrender fees”. You might also find that you have to pay taxes on your annuity as well. The best option is to work with an expert firm with a reputation for connecting sellers and buyers. These brokerages can help you make an informed decision regarding your annuity and ensure that you’re getting the most money possible if you do decide to sell.
When searching for a brokerage, it’s vital that you choose one with a reputation for providing their clients with the connections to the best funding firms. The brokerage should also be listed with the Better Business Bureau and have an established history in the industry.