Sell Annuity Payments

Tired of waiting?

Get cash from your Annuity.

"*" indicates required fields

By submitting this form, I am providing JG Wentworth with express written consent to contact me regarding a potential transaction by phone calls, text messages or by using an auto dialer (or automated means) at the phone number(s) provided and such consent is not a condition of a purchase. Message frequency depends on account status. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out. For assistance, call any number listed on this website. I also consent and agree to JG Wentworth’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

How does selling my annuity work?

Purchasing an annuity is a great way to secure steady income down the line. But life happens, and sometimes you need your money now, not later.

1

Contact us for a free consultation

2

Choose a customized option

3

Get your money!

Benefits of Selling an Annuity

Speed
Speed

Get your cash sooner rather than later.

Moving Money
Flexibility

Cash out all of your annuity
or only part of it.

Control
Control

If your annuity no longer works
for you, you have options.

Featured Annuity Articles

A Place for Contemplation, Algonquin Provincial Park, Summer Sunset
Annuity Purchasing

Jul 3, 2024

5 min

Navigating the Afterlife of Annuities: What Happens When the Annuitant Passes Away?

Annuities are financial instruments designed to provide a steady income stream, often extending through an individual’s retirement years. However, the inevitable question arises: What happens to a person’s annuity when they pass away? Can they...
Calculator with text Tax Saving. Calculator, Piggy Bank, coins, business graph and pen on wooden table."Concept saving money for finance accounting
Annuity Purchasing

Jul 2, 2024

7 min

Are Annuities a Safe Investment?

If you’re looking for a dependable way to guarantee yourself a regular income over a long span of time, you might be thinking about investing in annuities… but how much do you REALLY know about...
Happy for retirement
Annuity Purchasing

Jun 18, 2024

3 min

Selling Your Annuity for Retirement

Everyone cares about their retirement – it’s something people work and plan for their entire lives. And like other potential income sources – such as savings accounts, 401(k)s and Social Security payments, to name just...
man breaking piggy bank
Annuity Purchasing

Apr 3, 2024

5 min

When Should I Start Taking Money Out of My Annuity?

Discover expert advice on when to start taking money out of your annuity with JG Wentworth. Learn about the best strategies for maximizing your retirement income and making informed financial decisions. Visit our page for...

Selling Annuity FAQs

What types of annuities can be sold?

Many types of annuity payment streams can be sold. We will need to review your paperwork to determine if we can purchase your payments.

How long does the selling process take?

The process varies, but typically takes around 2-3 months from starting to receiving your lump sum. This accounts for the purchaser valuing your payments, getting insurer approval, finalizing paperwork, and funding your lump sum. More complex arrangements may take longer.

Is selling my annuity payments taxable?

Yes, the lump sum you receive from selling is considered taxable income. However, you were also going to pay taxes gradually on the original annuity payments. That said we are not tax professionals and so you should speak with your tax or financial advisor to better understand the implications of selling your annuity.

How is the lump sum purchase price calculated?

Companies estimate the present value of all your future annuity payments using market discount rates. This calculated value is then reduced by a percentage to account for built-in profit margins and transaction fees.

Can I sell just a portion of annuity payments?

Yes, most companies allow you to sell just a set number of your future periodic payments instead of the entire remaining stream. This provides you with some lump sum cash while still retaining periodic income from the unsold portion.

What are common reasons to sell an annuity?

People sell their annuity payments for many reasons, but the most common ones include covering unexpected medical bills, paying off debt, buying a home, investing in a business, or simply gaining more control over their finances. A lump sum today can be more useful than smaller payments spread over years.

What is a discount rate?

When you sell your annuity, the buyer applies a discount rate to determine how much your future payments are worth today. This rate accounts for inflation, risk, and the buyer’s expected profit. The higher the discount rate, the lower your lump sum offer will be.

What are the pros and cons?

Pros:

  • Immediate access to cash
  • Flexibility to invest or pay off debt
  • No more waiting for scheduled payments

Cons:

  • You’ll receive less than the full value of future payments
  • Could affect long-term financial stability
  • May have tax implications
Are there tax implications?

Selling your annuity can have tax consequences. While some structured settlements are tax-free, others—especially non-qualified annuities—may result in capital gains or income tax. It’s smart to consult with a tax advisor before proceeding.

How long to get a quote?

You can typically get a free, no-obligation quote within 24 to 48 hours after providing your annuity details.

How long to get the money?

Once your sale is approved by the court (required in most cases), you can usually receive your lump sum within 30 to 60 days from the time of agreement. Some cases may move faster depending on the state.

Are there upfront fees?

Most reputable annuity buyers don’t charge upfront fees. Instead, their profit is built into the discount rate. Always read the fine print and ask for a breakdown of any costs.

What can’t be sold?

You generally can’t sell:

  • Social Security benefits
  • VA benefits
  • Workers’ compensation payments (in many states)
  • Some government pensions

Additionally, court approval is required to sell structured settlements and certain annuities, especially those involving minors.

How much cash can I get if I sell my annuity payments?

The amount depends on:

  • The total value and schedule of your payments
  • The discount rate
  • How many payments you choose to sell

On average, sellers receive 50% to 70% of the annuity’s total value. You’ll get an exact number after a personalized quote.

Yes—selling annuity payments is legal in all 50 states. However, structured settlements require court approval to ensure the transaction is in your best interest.

Are there alternatives to selling my annuity payments?

Yes. Consider:

  • Taking a loan using your annuity as collateral (if allowed)
  • Partial sales (only selling some of your payments)
  • Refinancing existing debt to reduce pressure
  • Speaking with a financial advisor to explore other strategies
Do I have to sell all of my annuity payments, or can I sell just a portion?

You don’t have to sell your entire annuity. You can sell a portion of the payments or just specific years. This flexibility allows you to meet your immediate cash needs without giving up the entire future income.

How do I know if selling my annuity payments is the right choice for me?

It depends on your financial situation. Ask yourself:

  • Do I urgently need a large sum of money?
  • Will I have enough income afterward?
  • Can I manage without future payments?

Speak with a financial professional before making a decision.

Can I sell a minor’s annuity?

Courts are very cautious when minors are involved. You’ll need court approval, and the judge must be convinced it’s in the child’s best interest.

What information do I need to sell my annuity payments?

You’ll typically need:

  • Your annuity contract
  • A recent payment schedule or benefits letter
  • Identification documents
  • Contact info for the annuity issuer
What happens after I sell my annuity payments?

Once the sale is complete:

  • You receive your lump sum
  • The annuity issuer redirects future payments to the buyer
  • You no longer have rights to those sold payments
What if I change my mind about selling my annuity payments?

You can cancel at any time before the sale is finalized. After court approval and payment, the sale is typically permanent. Be sure you’re confident before moving forward.

Will I still have to pay premiums if I sell my annuity payments?

In most cases, no. Annuities are usually paid upfront and don’t require ongoing premiums. However, if you’re still in a contribution phase, it depends on your contract.

Can I sell my government annuity?

Generally, no. Most government-issued annuities—like military pensions or federal retirement plans—cannot be sold or transferred.

Can I sell an annuity received through an inheritance?

Yes, if it’s a non-qualified annuity and not restricted by contract. If you’re the rightful owner and the contract allows for assignment or sale, you can pursue a lump sum.

What if I have more questions about selling my annuity payments?

We’re here to help. Reach out to us for a free consultation tailored to your unique situation.

What are you waiting for?