Annuities Comparison is "Critically Important"

MANCHESTER, England, September 13, 2010 - Annuities (www.annuitysupermarket.com/) specialists from
annuitysupermarket.com have reiterated the importance of using the Open
Market Option when shopping for annuities.

As has been widely reported in the media recently, annuity rates are
falling and retirement finances are becoming tighter. Specialists from
Annuity Supermarket believe this puts more importance than ever before on
exercising your right to shop around. Independent Financial Advisor, Jennie
Gray, comments that;

"A large number of retirees still simply take the annuity rates offered
to them by their pension providers. It's remarkable that, for a purchase this
big, a purchase that effectively makes a big difference to your retirement
lifestyle, some are still not shopping around. The Open Market Option is
there to enable retirees to scour the open market and find the best rates
available to them. In a time of tightening finances, that's more important
than ever before."

It is thought that in excess of 40% of retirees could also qualify for
enhanced annuities, with eligibility criteria including having smoked for ten
years or more or taking medication for a pre-existing medical condition. Yet
those who accept the first offer from their pension providers could be
missing out. Even those who don't qualify for enhanced rates could still
increase their retirement income by using the open market option, as Jennie
explains;

"Shopping around could mean you end up with anything up to GBP1000 per
year more. When you consider the duration of your retirement, that's a
significant amount to simply overlook."

For expert advice on shopping around for the best annuities, visit
annuitysupermarket.com or contact +44(0)800-644-6021.

Contact Details (Media Only Where Possible) Jennie Gray, Independent Financial Adviser, +44(0)800-069-9840. 5 Jupiter House, Calleva Park, Aldermaston, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 8NN.