Final answer:
Fixed annuities offer a guaranteed interest rate, serve as retirement funds, and have tax advantages due to their tax-deferral feature. However, while they offer individual benefits, they do not provide all the benefits listed in the question when compared to other retirement options like 401(k)s. The correct option is D. all of these.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fixed annuities offer several benefits to individuals, particularly when it comes to retirement planning and income. However, among the options provided, fixed annuities do not offer all of these benefits. Specifically, fixed annuities provide a guaranteed interest rate, which ensures a predictable stream of income, and they can serve as a source of retirement funds because they disburse payments over time, typically during one's retirement years.
Additionally, annuities come with certain tax advantages. The earnings on the investments within a fixed annuity accumulate on a tax-deferred basis, meaning that taxes on the investment gains are not paid until the funds are withdrawn. This can be highly beneficial for those looking to maximize their retirement savings.
However, fixed annuities do not inherently provide all the benefits listed in the question. For example, while they offer tax deferral, they are not as flexible as other retirement savings options such as 401(k)s or IRAs when it comes to investment choices and portability.
Therefore, the correct option from the choices provided is D. all of these, since fixed annuities do not provide all the listed benefits simultaneously, especially when compared to other retirement savings vehicles.