Are you researching annuity websites? Beware. I know you’re probably thinking, “Why is this annuity website steering me away from other annuity websites”? Hear me out. You’ll thank me later.
Researching Annuities
If you are researching info on either annuities or an annuity product, and you see a website listed “Ad” at the top or bottom of the page…..don’t click on it. Please don’t register for it.
If you see a disclaimer at the bottom of the website page stating:
“You might speak with a licensed insurance agent in your state and may be offered insurance products for sale. “
Don’t register.
Why?
These pay-per-click (PPC) ads and annuity websites are lead and data mining companies trying to capture your info to sell to random unvetted insurance agents and financial advisors.
This is how these websites generate revenue; frankly, they don’t care who they sell your info to as long the lead is being sold.
This is not in your best interest.
Here’s what happens:
- You see an intriguing or provocative advertisement like “Earn 9.83%” or “Beware of Annuities” (Click Bait).
- You click the website.
- There’s a “Free Guide” or “Free Quote.”
- You register on their form.
- The company captures your info.
- Suddenly you get a random call. You don’t pick up.
- You get another call, then another call, and a call after that.
- This continues until you pick up…
- A representative of that lead generation company then starts to ask you personal questions, and you reluctantly give the info and ask a question back.
- Guess what? They don’t know the answer because they are a telemarketer getting paid minimum wage.
- Once the telemarketer captures your info, they sell it to an unvetted insurance agent or advisor in your area. Then, they build a database of annuity consumers. Not cool.
- If the ad says something like “Beware of Annuities,” this is a scare tactic to get you to register your info. They probably sell annuities or try to sell risky investments too. Not cool.
- So what should you do if you want the information but don’t want your info sold?
Lead Generation Website Examples
- Annuity General
- Ken Fisher (Steers you to investments)
- AdvisorWorld
- Annuity Alliance
- Annuity FYI
- Annuity.org
- Annuity Gator
- Betterment
- Investopedia
- Annuity.com
- Annuity Educator
- Annuity Resources
So if you want a telemarketer calling you non-stop or referred to an advisor without being vetted, sign up for any of these websites. They make their money off your data.
How To Avoid This
Option #1
Please find a local advisor(s), and email them your question. Suppose they give you the answer without a mandatory appointment. They are helpful. I’d make an appointment with them.
Stick with an independent advisor. They typically represent various companies vs. just 1 or 2 companies. In addition, captive agencies restrict their advisors on annuities they can sell, which ultimately hurts you.
Option #2
Please email me a question for a second opinion. The Annuity Expert has the largest selection of annuities. Annuity training for financial professionals has been part of my job for the past 12 years (not the random agent, advisor, or annuity lead company). If I don’t know the answer, I’ll tell you that I don’t know and gather the answer for you.
We will answer any questions you have, or we can pick apart an annuity product for you.
Next Steps
I hope you found this information helpful. Annuities are a complicated product, and you must do your due diligence before making any decisions. If you’re still unsure after reading this guide, please don’t hesitate to ask for more information or a quote. We would be happy to help!
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