Retirement planning and wealth management in Orange County, California

Annuities are generally considered safe because they're backed by the claims-paying ability of the insurance company that issues them. That said, an annuity's strength depends on the financial health of the insurer, so it's smart to review the company's financial strength ratings before you buy.

It depends on your goals, spending needs, timeline and how long your savings may need to last. The clearest way to know is with a personalized financial plan that looks at your income, expenses, taxes and long-term needs.

A Roth conversion can be a good idea, but it depends on your current tax bracket and the tax rate you expect to pay later. You'll pay taxes on the amount converted now, but qualified withdrawals in the future can be tax-free. A professional analysis can help you decide whether a Roth conversion is right for you.