Pension Annuity or Lump Sum – Which Is Better?

Differences Between Pension Annuity and Lump Sum

At the time of retirement, your employer can either offer you a regular pay-out option (pension annuity) or offer a large sum of one-time payments (lump sum).

Therefore, you must understand the primary difference between the two to assess your financial plans accordingly. The table below illustrates the difference between retirement pension annuity and lump sum fund based on their features:

Features Pension Annuity Lump Sum
Pay-out Types •  Single life payment

•  Single life with term certain

•  50% joint and survivor

•  100% joint and survivor
One-time payment of a lump sum amount.
Validity Guaranteed payment till the end of your life (also for beneficiaries in case of joint pension plans). The entire sum is paid out at one go.
Stability Pension annuity plans are more stable as they are monthly payments, and there is no risk of running out of money. Lump sum plans are less stable as the amount is paid once, and you may run out of resources afterwards.
Nominees Your beneficiaries can benefit from a steady paycheck every month if they live long after you. In case of any unfortunate event, your dependents will receive the remaining amount as a whole.
Usability You can use the money to take care of your necessary expenses and to pay off smaller debts. You can use the money to clear off large debts and outstanding loans or take care of extensive responsibilities such as children's education, marriage, etc.

Pension Annuity vs Lump Sum - Which is the better choice?

FAQs about Pension Annuity and Lump Sum

What factors should I consider before choosing a pension payment plan?

up-arrow
Before choosing any plan, you must consider factors such as your life expectancy, investment risk, stability, your budget, inflation, and convenience. Also, note lump sum can be a better option if you have a high-risk appetite or immediate monetary needs. However, it may not be useful if your financial management skills are poor and you prefer convenience over quantity.

How does life expectancy factor into a pension payment plan?

up-arrow

Life expectancy is one of the most crucial factors to consider when deciding a pension plan. For instance, if you are in good health with no critical illnesses, a regular pay-out option may seem more favourable, which you can enjoy for a long time.

On the other hand, if you or your spouse have a poor health condition and do not expect to live beyond the average duration, a lump sum amount may be more suitable to pay off medical expenses or pass on as an inheritance.

When should I choose regular pay-outs instead of lump sum?

up-arrow

Your pension payment plans depend on your budget planning and return expectations. Therefore, a regular pay-out option can be more favourable if you prefer a convenient option of steady income despite market conditions.

Moreover, if you have other post-retirement incomes, this can work as a steady bonus to cater to your desires other than regular expenses.

Disclaimer

up-arrow

  • This is an informative article provided on 'as is' basis for awareness purpose only and not intended as a professional advice. The content of the article is derived from various open sources across the Internet. Digit Life Insurance is not promoting or recommending any aspect in the article or its correctness. Please verify the information and your requirement before taking any decisions.
  • All the figures reflected in the article are for illustrative purposes. The premium for Coverage that one buys depends on various factors including customer requirements, eligibility, age, demography, insurance provider, product, coverage amount, term and other factors
  • Tax Benefits, if applicable depend on the Tax Regime opted by the individual and the applicable tax provision. Please consult your Tax consultant before making any decision.

Latest News

Currently there are no news to show.

Read More

Renew & Download Policy Document, Check Challan, Credit Score, PUC & more

Anytime, Anywhere. Only on Digit App!

google-play-icon

Rated App

app-store-icon

Rated App