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Buying your annuity

When is the right time to buy your annuity?

Buying your annuity - Tom McPhail

Economic and market uncertainty are a concern for anyone approaching retirement.

Tom McPhail, Head of Pensions Research, discusses choosing the right time to buy your annuity and what to do when the time's right for you.

How long does it take to set up an annuity?

The time it takes to set up your annuity will depend upon the efficiency of your existing pension provider and how quickly they forward your pension fund to your annuity company.

Our experienced team will speak to your pension provider on a regular basis and keep you up-to-date to ensure the process is as quick and seamless as possible.

When will my annuity quote expire?

Choose wisely

Don’t forget once you have chosen your annuity provider and set up your annuity you cannot change it for the rest of your life, so you must take your time and choose the best annuity for your and your family’s needs.

If you have any questions about your annuity please don't hesitate to contact an annuities specialist to discuss your options on 0117 980 9940.

Your annuity options

Act quickly

If you have decided to set up your annuity in the near future, we believe it is important to act quickly for the following reasons:

Annuity quotes have a short shelf life
They are guaranteed for a limited time, which will be shown on your quote. The pension fund must be with the annuity provider by the quote expiry date to secure the annuity rate.

Annuity rates can change
By setting up your annuity now you remove any uncertainty of future changes.

Time costs money
Every month you delay setting up your annuity means you'll lose another month’s income. This can be hard to make up again.

Get an instant online annuity quote now

Check if you qualify for an enhanced annuity

You could increase the value of your annuity income if you have a medical or lifestyle condition. You don't need to be seriously ill to qualify - high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol are just some of the many conditions which could secure you a better annuity income for your retirement.

Find out if you qualify for an enhanced annuity

Use our support

Remember, we're always here to help. If you would like us to post an application pack to you; if you have any questions when completing the forms or at any other time when buying your annuity, please don't hesitate to contact one of our annuities specialists on 0117 980 9940.

If you're unsure about the suitability of an annuity we can also put you in contact with one of our financial practitioners for advice.


Search for an annuity quote »

Client review

Fountain pen

"I have always been impressed and pleased with your services and my annuity was no exception. You did it all flawlessly it could not have been easier for me. Thank you.

Mr Ashton, Cheshire


Important information

Annuity rates can change regularly and may go up or down in the future. Quotes are guaranteed for a limited time only. Once set up, an annuity cannot normally be changed or cancelled, so it is important to consider all your options carefully.

Expert comment:
Ruth Richards

Annuities expert: Ruth Richards

The cost of delaying your annuity

One year's delay could take as long as 22 years for income to catch up.

View article

Have a question about your annuity?

Annuity FAQs

If you would like more information please don't hesitate to contact one of our annuity specialists on:

0117 980 9940

  • Mon - Thu:
  •  8am - 7pm
  • Fri:
  •  8am - 6pm
  • Sat:
  •  9:30am - 12:30pm

Did you know?

98% of clients rated our annuity service as 'good', 'very good' or 'excellent.

Hargreaves Lansdown survey,
161 respondents – 05.11



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