The promise of lifetime income from Annuities has been around for centuries dating back to Ancient Rome. Originally, Annuities were just simple instruments that guaranteed a steady stream of income. But, things got more complicated as the years went by. For instance, in the late 1980s, variable Annuities became popular when mutual fund sub accounts…

Dear Carrie: I’m about to retire, and I have to decide between taking a lump sum or lifetime income payments for my pension. I’m leaning toward the lump sum. Is this a good idea?—A Reader Dear Readers: My first thought is to say congratulations! A pension in any form—whether taken as a lump sum, as…