Last updated: October 24, 2026
Quick Answer
The company pays income for as long as you live and guarantees to make payments for a set number of years even if you die. This period certain is usually 10 or 20 years.
Because the “period certain” is an added benefit, each income payment will be smaller than in a life-only option.
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Questions & Answers
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What happens if you live longer than the period certain? | If you live longer than the period certain, you’ll continue to receive payments until you die. |
| What does a beneficiary get if you die during the period certain? | If you die during the period certain, your beneficiary gets regular payments for the rest of that period. |
| Does a beneficiary get payments if you die after the period certain? | If you die after the period certain, your beneficiary doesn’t receive any payments from your annuity. |
Related Questions
Large Print Version
What is a period certain annuity?
The company pays income for as long as you live and guarantees to make payments for a set number of years even if you die. This period certain is usually 10 or 20 years.
What happens if you live longer than the period certain?
If you live longer than the period certain, you’ll continue to receive payments until you die.
What does a beneficiary get if you die during the period certain?
If you die during the period certain, your beneficiary gets regular payments for the rest of that period.
Does a beneficiary get payments if you die after the period certain?
If you die after the period certain, your beneficiary doesn’t receive any payments from your annuity.
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Educational content provided by Jeffrey Scott McLeod, LUTC, National Insurance Producer License #558629. This is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any annuity. Guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Always consult your own advisor and read the full NAIC Buyer’s Guide. For residents of your state.
Jeffrey Scott McLeod, LUTC — National Producer #558629.
Questions? Contact Jeff@AnnuitiesExplained.org.