What is the difference between an annuity and an allocated pension?
Jessica Cortez
Updated on April 04, 2026
An account-based (or allocated) pension provides you with a regular income stream from your super savings in retirement. Annuities don’t offer this flexibility, which is why many retirees select account-based pensions for the majority of their retirement savings.
What is the difference between term allocated pension and allocated pension?
Term allocated pensions are a relatively flexible way to provide an income for your retirement. They are less flexible than allocated pensions but more flexible than standard annuities. With a term allocated pension you can: Vary your pension payments +/- 10% of the prescribed amount.
Which is better pension or annuity?
In general, an annuity will give you the most control over your money. If you take a lump-sum pension payment, you have the ability to use the money however you choose.
What is non superannuation annuity?
Australian annuities (also called non-superannuation annuities) are paid to you by Australian life insurance companies and friendly societies. These payments are shown on your PAYG payment summary – individual non-business.
Is it better to take pension lump sum or annuity?
If you’re really concerned about losing your pension because of the pension provider’s financial situation or inability to pay out, taking the lump sum may end up being the more secure option. If your annuity does not have a cost-of-living adjustment, it’s purchasing power will decrease over time due to inflation.
What is a non account based pension?
non-account-based – the income stream does not have an identifiable account balance in the member’s name. The member will receive regular income, usually guaranteed for life or for a fixed term.
How does an allocated pension affect Centrelink payment?
The annual income that you receive from your Allocated Pension is assessed under the Income Test for Centrelink purposes. However, the income that you receive is reduced by the ‘Centrelink Deductible Amount’. The Income that is assessed is the gross pension payment less the Deductible Amount.
Is an annuity like a pension?
In broad terms, the main difference between an annuity and a pension is that you buy an annuity after retirement to provide you with a guaranteed regular income, whereas you save into a pension pot throughout your life. A pension is the pot you build up throughout your working life.
Are annuities commutable?
Commutation allows the recipient of an obligation, such as an annuity or insurance policy, to change how they would prefer to receive their payment. Beneficiaries may choose to swap a lump-sum payment for a series of ongoing cash flows, or vice-versa.
What is non commutable?
Non-commutable means that it cannot be converted back into a lump sum (except in limited circumstances). Non-commutable . , which means you can’t make a lump sum cash withdrawal until you reach 65 or meet another condition of release.
What’s the difference between superannuation and annuity?
An annuity is a type of pension product you can buy from a life insurance company or a super fund with a lump sum. To be able to purchase an annuity using funds from your superannuation, you must have reached your preservation age and meet a condition of release, such as permanently retiring from work.