What is an annuity?
Updated: 1/21/2013
Article ID: IAS10039
An annuity is an insurance retirement contract purchased either by you or through an employer plan. Your contributions are not deductible. You aren't taxed on the earnings until you start withdrawing funds which generally is subjected to an additional 10% tax if you withdraw contributions early. Annuities include CSF/CSA 1099-R and Railroad Retirement (RRB-1099-R).