"Critics say these annuities are too costly. The relatively high fees annuity investors pay can eat up a significant amount of money over the long term, they say, and investors also can get more-favorable tax treatment with some other investments. Proponents say the cost of annuities is worth it for the security they offer. No other investment, they say, can protect investors as well and still give them the chance to earn something more than a nominal return on their investment."  MORE >>