Annuity Advice
The right annuity can be the most valuable financial product you ever buy — but the wrong one is equally costly.
Your Situation
If you are approaching retirement and want the security of a guaranteed income for life…
An annuity converts your pension pot into a guaranteed income for life — and for many people, that certainty is the most important thing money can buy in retirement. The challenge is that buying an annuity is an irreversible decision, and the income it provides depends on the rate you achieve at purchase, your age and health at the time, and the features you select. Shopping for an annuity without independent advice — or simply accepting your pension provider's default offer — can cost thousands of pounds over your lifetime.
Castle Stonebridge searches the whole of the annuity market on behalf of clients across the UK. We identify whether an enhanced annuity is available based on your health and lifestyle, compare rates from every major provider, and help you understand the trade-offs between level income, escalating income, joint-life provisions, and guarantee periods — so you buy with confidence.
Questions We Answer
"Do my health conditions qualify me for an enhanced annuity rate?"
Enhanced annuities can pay 20–40% more income than standard rates for those with qualifying health conditions or lifestyle factors.
"Should I buy a level annuity or an escalating one?"
Level annuities pay more initially; escalating ones maintain purchasing power — the right choice depends on your health, other income, and inflation expectations.
"Do I need a joint-life annuity to protect my spouse or partner?"
A joint-life annuity continues paying to your partner on death — without it, annuity income stops when you die.
"Should I take a lump sum from my pension before buying an annuity?"
Taking the 25% tax-free cash first and buying an annuity with the remainder is a common strategy — but the trade-offs need careful modelling.
"Can I combine an annuity with drawdown to balance security and flexibility?"
A blended retirement strategy — part annuity for essential income, part drawdown for flexibility — may suit those who want both.
Our Approach
How We Guide You
Health and lifestyle assessment
We systematically assess your health, medical history, and lifestyle factors to identify whether an enhanced annuity rate is available.
Whole-of-market comparison
We compare annuity rates from every major UK provider — not just your existing pension company — to secure the best available income for your pot.
Structure and features advice
We help you decide on the right structure: level or escalating, single or joint life, guarantee period, overlap provisions, and value protection.
Secure purchase and implementation
We manage the annuity purchase process, ensuring the correct pension funds are designated and all documentation is completed accurately.
Key Considerations
What you should know before making a decision
- Buying an annuity is an irreversible decision. Once purchased, you cannot change your mind, switch providers, or access your pension pot as a lump sum.
- Shopping for an annuity on the open market (rather than accepting your pension provider's default offer) almost always results in a higher income — often significantly so.
- Enhanced annuities are available for a wide range of health conditions including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart conditions, and many others. Do not assume you do not qualify.
- The income from an annuity is subject to income tax as earned income. The tax treatment of annuity income depends on individual circumstances and current legislation.
Talk to an independent adviser — no obligation
Castle Stonebridge is FCA-regulated and wholly independent. We are not tied to any provider, which means our advice is guided solely by what is right for you.
Book a Free ConsultationYour initial consultation is completely free and carries no obligation.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to get the right advice for your situation?
Your free initial consultation is completely without obligation. We will listen, understand your specific circumstances, and tell you honestly whether and how we can help — before we discuss fees.
advice@castlestonebridge.co.ukCastle Stonebridge Limited is an Appointed Representative of Rosemount Financial Solutions (IFA) Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Rosemount Financial Solutions (IFA) Limited is entered on the Financial Services Register under reference 535515. Tax treatment depends on individual circumstances and may change.
Investment & Pensions Risk: Capital is at risk. The value of pensions and investments and the income they produce can fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.