Our site uses cookies to improve your experience. By continuing, you agree to the use of cookies and our privacy policy.
Request My Free Quote
Plan future income
Request My Free Quote

DEFERRED INCOME ANNUITY QUOTE

Create Predictable Retirement Income That Starts When You Need It

Plan ahead for guaranteed income you can count on. With a deferred income annuity, you make a one-time purchase today and receive lifetime payments beginning on your schedule.

By submitting this request, I opt in and consent to receive phone calls, text messages, and e-mails from Western & Southern Life or its partners on the Company’s behalf for marketing products and services related to my request, at the phone number(s) identified above, including my wireless number if provided and even if my phone number is on a Do-Not-Call list. I understand these calls may be generated using an automated technology, and voicemails left by Western & Southern Life may be pre-recorded messages. I understand that opting in is not required to make a purchase.

You may revoke this consent by contacting 877-367-9734. To purchase without opting in, do so by calling us at 866-832-7719. By submitting this request you are confirming that you have read, understood, and agree to, our Privacy Policy.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

What Is a Deferred Income Annuity (DIA)?

A deferred income annuity (DIA) is an income annuity you fund now for guaranteed payments that start later – often five, 10, or more years down the road. You choose a future start date and receive monthly income for life or a set period. Benefits include predictable cash flow, higher potential payouts for waiting, and less concern about daily market changes. The longer you defer, the higher your guaranteed payments will be when they begin. Key benefits include:

Guaranteed Future Income1

Lock in income today that begins later, giving you steady payments you can count on in retirement, often for life, and not tied to market performance.

Rate Lock Advantage

Secure your payout rate at the time of purchase so your guaranteed income won’t change, even if interest rates or market conditions do.

Higher Payments Later

Deferring your start date allows more time for your income value to grow, leading to larger guaranteed payments.

Custom Start Date

Choose when your income begins — at retirement or another future date that fits your plan.

Predictable Payments

Know exactly how much income you’ll receive and when, making it easier to plan future expenses.

Beneficiary Options

Choose payout options that can continue income to a spouse or provide a refund to loved ones if you pass away early.
Couple discovering nature on a hike while enjoying their financial security

How a Deferred Income Annuity Contract Works

A deferred income annuity converts money you set aside today into guaranteed income that starts at a future date you choose. The insurance company manages your funds and locks in your payout rate at purchase, guaranteeing income that won’t change with market conditions or interest rate shifts. All guarantees are backed by the insurer’s claims-paying ability.

  1. Fund the Annuity: Make a single payment to the insurance company to lock in your guaranteed future income rate and payout schedule. Some contracts may allow additional payments during the deferral period.
  2. Select Your Start Date: Choose when your income will begin — often several years in the future. The longer you wait, the higher your payments will be.
  3. Insurer Manages the Contract: The insurer holds and invests your funds, guaranteeing your future payments regardless of how the markets perform. All guarantees are backed by the insurer’s claims-paying ability.
  4. Income Grows During Deferral: While you wait, your future income value increases, providing larger guaranteed payments once income begins. Because the funds are committed during this time, access to your premium is limited before payments start.
  5. Receive Payments: When your chosen date arrives, payments start automatically and continue for life or for a specific period, depending on your contract.1
  6. Provide for Loved Ones: You can add options that continue payments to a spouse or beneficiary after your death.

Want a deeper dive? Read our full guide:   What Is a Deferred Annuity & How Does It Work?

Why Choose Western & Southern?

Historic building with columns

Financial Strength

High ratings reflect stability you can count on
established 1888

Trusted for Over 135 Years

Helping families protect their future since 1888

Serving Millions Nationwide

Trusted by families across the 50 states

Is a Deferred Income Annuity Right for You?

A deferred income annuity (DIA) is designed for people who want guaranteed income that starts later in life. It’s ideal for long-term planners who want to turn a portion of their savings into a reliable future paycheck. Payments can begin years down the road, often during retirement, providing security and protection against outliving your income.

Below are examples of who might benefit from a deferred income annuity:

Man hiking outdoors with his dog

Future Retiree

Wants to secure guaranteed income that starts at a specific age – often 65, 70, or later – and provide lasting income in case they live longer than expected.
Couple budgeting together on the couch

Long-Term Planner

Prefers to set aside money today to create predictable income later, reducing market stress and ensuring dependable future cash flow.
Couple protected with IUL flexibility

Longevity Planner

Is healthy and wants to plan for a long life, using guaranteed lifetime income as insurance against outliving their savings.
Woman reading about retirement income options

Income Bridge Planner

Plans to begin payments after other income sources, such as Social Security or a pension, begin.
Tax efficient investor

Tax-Efficient Investor

Likes that earnings grow tax-deferred until payments start, helping future income increase over time.
Wife hugging her husband

Spousal Protector

Wants to ensure income continues for a spouse or loved one later in retirement.

A deferred income annuity (DIA) provides guaranteed income you can count on for your future, helping you plan confidently for a long life with stability that’s not tied to market performance.

Not sure if a deferred income annuity is right for you? Explore all types of income annuities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Deferred Income Annuities

What is a deferred income annuity?
A deferred income annuity (DIA) is an annuity you buy now for guaranteed income that begins later. You choose a future start date and receive regular payments for life or for a set period, helping you plan for long-term retirement income.

How does a deferred income annuity work?
You make a lump-sum payment to the insurer, who promises future income starting on the date you select. The payout amount is based on your age, current interest rates, and payout options such as life-only or period-certain income.

When should I start income from a DIA?
Many people schedule payments to begin in their 70s or later to help manage longevity risk. The longer you defer payments, the higher your future income. The right start age depends on your retirement goals and other income sources.

Are deferred income annuities and longevity annuities the same?
Yes. “Longevity annuity” is another term for a deferred income annuity, typically referring to income that starts later in life. Both provide guaranteed income for life to help protect against outliving your savings.

What happens if I die before payments start?
It depends on the payout option you choose. With life-only, no benefit is paid after death. With a cash-refund or period-certain option, your beneficiary may receive a payment. Review available guarantees before purchasing.

How are DIAs taxed?
In non-qualified accounts, each payment is partly taxable and partly a return of principal. In IRAs or other qualified plans, payments are generally fully taxable. Always consult a tax professional for guidance on your specific situation.

Do DIAs have fees?
Deferred income annuities don’t have ongoing asset-based fees like investment products. The cost is built into the payout rate and features you select, such as joint life coverage or refund options.
IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

1 Payment of benefits under the annuity contract is the obligation of, and is guaranteed by, the issuing company. Guarantees are based upon the claims paying ability of the issuer. Products are backed by the full financial strength of the issuing company.

An annuity is a long-term financial vehicle designed for retirement. An insurance company accepts premiums and provides future income or a lump-sum amount to the contract owner by contractual agreement.

Annuities are issued by Integrity Life Insurance Company and Western-Southern Life Assurance Company, both in Cincinnati, Ohio. Securities offered through W&S Brokerage Services, Inc., member FINRA / SIPC. All companies are members of the Western & Southern Financial Group.

Earnings and pre-tax payments are subject to income tax at withdrawal. Withdrawals may be subject to charges. Withdrawals from an annuity are subject to ordinary income tax, and, if taken before age 59 ½ may be subject to 10% IRS penalty.