- State Guaranty Association The Tennessee Life and Health Insurance Guaranty Association (contact details are in the national directory at nolhga.com) provides limited protection if an insurance company fails. Coverage for annuity benefits is generally $250,000 in present value per contract owner, per insurer. Verify current limits directly with the association. Annuities are not FDIC insured.
- Annuity Tax Treatment Tennessee has no state income tax, so annuity income, along with Social Security, pension, and IRA distributions, faces no state income tax at all. Confirm your specific situation with a tax professional.
- State Insurance Department The Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance regulates annuities sold in Tennessee. You can verify any insurance professional's license through its online license lookup.
- Free Look Period Tennessee generally provides a free look period of at least 10 days for annuity contracts, often longer for replacement contracts. Your contract states the exact period that applies to you.
- Best Interest Standard Tennessee has adopted the NAIC Best Interest standard for annuity recommendations. Advisors recommending annuities to Tennessee residents must act in the consumer's best interest.
Retiring in Tennessee
Between zero income tax, a low cost of living, and destinations from the Smokies to Nashville, Tennessee has become one of the fastest-growing retirement states in the country.
Learn before you buy
Start with what an annuity actually is, then see how the types differ and which myths to ignore. If someone has already shown you a product, get a free second opinion before you sign.