Annuities are financial products designed to provide a steady stream of income, typically during retirement. By investing a lump sum or making periodic contributions, you can receive guaranteed payments over a specified period or for the rest of your life. Annuities come in various forms, including fixed, variable, and indexed options, each offering different levels of risk and potential returns. They are an effective way to secure your financial future and ensure you have a reliable income source in your later years.