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Retirement Income & Annuity Specialist · Boca Raton, FL

Grow your retirement, without the market risk.

I'm John Nightingale. I help you protect your principal and turn savings into guaranteed income, comparing 20+ top-rated carriers to find the right annuity or strategy for you, not the biggest commission for me. Clear answers, zero pressure.

Rated by real retirees on Google read reviews
  • 20+ years experience
  • 20+ top carriers compared
  • Licensed in 7 states
  • NPN 10308000
John Nightingale, Retirement Income Specialist in Boca Raton, FL

John Nightingale

Retirement Income Specialist · NPN 10308000

Comparing 20+ top-rated carriers, including

When carriers compete, you win.

You're not limited to a single carrier or a one-size-fits-all solution. I do the heavy lifting across 20+ companies so you get the best fit at the best rate.

0yrs
of industry experience
0+
top-rated carriers compared
0+
retirement strategies compared
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cost to you, ever

Simple by design

How does working with a retirement specialist work?

No jargon, no pressure, no obligation. Three steps from curious to confident.

STEP 01

Tell me about your goals

A two-minute form or a quick call. I learn your savings, your timeline to retirement, and how much risk you're comfortable with.

STEP 02

I shop 20+ carriers

I compare rates, caps, and income guarantees across top-rated carriers and bring you the best two or three fits, explained in plain English.

STEP 03

You choose. I handle the rest.

Paperwork, transfers, follow-ups: done for you. And I stay your advocate for years to come, with an annual review, not just at the sale.

Strategies

Let's talk options.

Five ways to protect and grow your retirement savings. Tap any option to see exactly how it works, or answer two quick questions and I'll point you to the right one.

Find My Strategy in 60 Seconds

Fixed Indexed Annuities

Market-linked growth. Zero market losses.

A fixed indexed annuity (FIA) credits interest based on the performance of a market index like the S&P 500, while your principal is protected from market downturns. Many include optional riders that guarantee income for life.

Best for: Savers within 5 to 15 years of retirement who want growth potential without risking the money they've already built.

Common questions

How does a fixed indexed annuity credit interest?
Each year the carrier measures an index such as the S&P 500. If it rose, you're credited interest up to a cap or participation rate. If it fell, you're credited zero rather than losing money. Your credited gains lock in and can't be taken back by a later downturn.
Is my principal really protected in an FIA?
Yes. Your principal and any locked-in gains are contractually protected from market losses, backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing carrier. That's why I only place FIAs with highly rated companies and show you the ratings first.
What's the catch with a fixed indexed annuity?
Two trade-offs. Your upside is limited by a cap or participation rate, and surrender charges apply if you withdraw more than the free amount during the surrender period, often 5 to 10 years. An FIA rewards money you can leave to grow, so I make sure the surrender schedule fits your timeline before recommending one.
What's the difference between an FIA and a variable annuity?
A variable annuity invests directly in the market, so your principal can lose value and it carries higher fees. An FIA is not invested in the market. It credits interest based on an index while your principal is protected from market losses. I offer fixed and indexed annuities, not variable or securities products.
Can I add guaranteed lifetime income to an FIA?
Yes. Most FIAs offer an optional income rider that turns the annuity into a paycheck for life, often for a small annual fee. We only add it if guaranteed income is one of your goals, and I'll show you exactly what it costs and pays.

Apply for Fixed Indexed Annuities online

Fixed Indexed Annuities application

This secure form connects to your GoHighLevel account and goes live the moment it's linked.

Fixed & MYGA Annuities

A guaranteed rate. Zero guesswork.

A multi-year guaranteed annuity (MYGA) locks in a fixed interest rate for a set number of years and grows tax-deferred, with your principal fully protected. It's often compared to a bank CD, but with tax advantages and frequently higher rates.

Best for: Conservative savers who want a predictable, guaranteed return and don't need access to the full balance for several years.

Common questions

How is a MYGA different from a bank CD?
Both give you a guaranteed rate for a set term, but a MYGA grows tax-deferred, so you're not taxed on the interest until you withdraw it, and rates are often higher than comparable CDs. The trade-off is that a MYGA is designed to be held for the full term, with surrender charges for early withdrawals beyond the free amount.
Is a fixed annuity safe?
Fixed annuities are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance carrier, which is why carrier ratings matter. They aren't FDIC insured like a bank product, so I only work with highly rated carriers and show you each company's rating before you decide.
What interest rate can I get right now?
Rates change constantly and vary by carrier, term length, and deposit size. That's exactly why I compare 20+ carriers instead of quoting one. Tell me your timeline and I'll show you the strongest current rates you qualify for.
Can I access my money if I need it?
Most contracts allow penalty-free withdrawals of around 10% of the value each year, with full access after the surrender period ends. Withdrawals before age 59 and a half may also face a 10% IRS penalty, so we match the term to money you won't need in the short run.
What happens to my fixed annuity when I die?
Any remaining value passes directly to your named beneficiaries, typically skipping probate. We choose the beneficiary structure that fits your wishes when the contract is set up.

Apply for Fixed & MYGA Annuities online

Fixed & MYGA Annuities application

This secure form connects to your GoHighLevel account and goes live the moment it's linked.

Guaranteed Retirement Income

A paycheck for life.

Using an annuity with a lifetime income rider, we convert a portion of your savings into guaranteed income that continues for the rest of your life, no matter how long you live or what the markets do. It's how you make sure the money lasts as long as you do.

Best for: Pre-retirees and retirees who want predictable, guaranteed income to cover their essential expenses in retirement.

Common questions

How much income will an annuity pay me?
It depends on your deposit, your age, when income starts, and the payout option you choose. As a rough example, a lifetime income rider often pays 5 to 7 percent of the benefit base each year when started in your late 60s. I'll show you exact carrier quotes before you decide anything.
Can I really not outlive this income?
That's the point of a lifetime income rider. The guaranteed payments continue for as long as you live, even if the account value runs to zero, backed by the issuing carrier. If you choose a joint option, they continue for your spouse's life too.
When should I turn on the income?
You don't have to decide today. Many people let the benefit base grow for several years, then switch income on at retirement. We plan the start date around when you'll actually need the paycheck, and the longer you wait, the higher the payout usually is.
What happens to the money when I pass away?
With most modern income annuities, any remaining account value passes to your beneficiaries, so you're not choosing between income for you and a legacy for them. We structure the contract so nothing is lost to the insurance company unnecessarily.
Is this the same as a pension?
It works like one. A pension and a lifetime income annuity both pay you a guaranteed check for life. Since most people no longer have a traditional pension, an income annuity is how many retirees create their own.

Guaranteed lifetime income is provided through an optional rider and is backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Withdrawals may reduce the benefit and could be subject to surrender charges and, before age 59 and a half, a 10% IRS penalty.

Apply for Guaranteed Retirement Income online

Guaranteed Retirement Income application

This secure form connects to your GoHighLevel account and goes live the moment it's linked.

Indexed Universal Life (IUL)

Tax-free growth and a legacy in one.

An IUL is permanent life insurance whose cash value earns interest linked to a market index, with a floor that protects against market losses. It offers tax-deferred growth and, when properly funded, tax-free access to income through policy loans, plus a death benefit for your family.

Best for: Higher earners and business owners who've maxed other tax-advantaged accounts and want tax-free growth potential alongside a death benefit.

Common questions

How does an IUL build tax-free income?
Cash value grows tax-deferred based on index performance, with a floor that protects against market losses. In retirement you can access that value through policy loans, which are generally income-tax-free when the policy is structured and funded correctly. Structure and funding matter enormously, so I walk you through a full illustration first.
Can I lose money in an IUL?
Credited interest can't go negative in most designs, but policy fees and the cost of insurance still apply, so an underfunded IUL can lose value. That's why proper design and consistent funding are essential, and why I review these policies with clients every year.
How is an IUL different from a 401(k) or Roth IRA?
A 401(k) is invested directly in the market with contribution limits; an IUL is life insurance with cash value tied to an index, a 0% floor, no IRS contribution limit, and tax-free access through loans. They complement each other. An IUL is not a replacement for an employer match.
Who is an IUL not a good fit for?
Anyone who can't fund it consistently for the long term, or who hasn't yet captured a full employer 401(k) match. An IUL rewards patient, well-funded money. If that's not your situation, I'll tell you honestly and point you to a better tool.
Do I need a medical exam for an IUL?
Sometimes, but not always. Many carriers offer accelerated underwriting with no exam for qualified applicants. I'll tell you upfront which options skip the exam based on your age and health.

Apply for Indexed Universal Life online

Indexed Universal Life (IUL) application

This secure form connects to your GoHighLevel account and goes live the moment it's linked.

401(k) & IRA Rollovers

Protect the retirement you've earned.

Old 401(k)s and IRAs can typically be rolled directly into an annuity as a tax-free transfer, moving your retirement savings into a vehicle that protects your principal from market losses and can guarantee income for life.

Best for: Anyone with an old employer 401(k) or an IRA who wants principal protection and guaranteed-income options without triggering taxes on the move.

Common questions

Will I owe taxes if I roll over my 401(k) or IRA?
Usually not. A direct rollover or trustee-to-trustee transfer of qualified funds into an annuity is generally not a taxable event, because the money never touches your hands. We handle it as a direct transfer specifically to avoid triggering taxes, and I always recommend confirming with your tax professional.
Should I roll over my old 401(k) at all?
Not always, and I'll tell you honestly. It depends on your fees, investment options, income needs, and how much market risk you want. If your current plan is serving you well, I'll say so. Where a rollover helps is moving money you can't afford to lose out of full market exposure.
What does a rollover protect me from?
Sequence-of-returns risk, the danger of a market crash early in retirement when you're withdrawing income. Moving a portion into a protected annuity means that money can't lose value to a downturn, and can be turned into guaranteed income you can't outlive.
Do I lose access to my money after a rollover?
No, but access has rules. Most annuities allow penalty-free withdrawals of around 10% per year, with the rest available after the surrender period. Withdrawals before age 59 and a half may face a 10% IRS penalty. We size the transfer so you keep enough liquid elsewhere.
Can I roll over only part of my account?
Yes. Many people protect a portion, enough to cover essential income, and leave the rest invested for growth. We decide together how much belongs in protected money versus market money based on your goals.

A direct rollover or transfer of qualified funds into an annuity is generally not a taxable event, but tax rules are specific to your situation. This is not tax advice; please consult a qualified tax professional before moving retirement funds.

Apply for 401 & IRA Rollovers online

401(k) & IRA Rollovers application

This secure form connects to your GoHighLevel account and goes live the moment it's linked.

Who you'll be working with

Who is John Nightingale?

Portrait of John Nightingale

20+

years guiding retirements

I'm an independent, licensed insurance specialist with over 20 years helping people protect and grow their retirement savings. I focus on protection-first, insurance-based strategies, fixed and fixed indexed annuities, guaranteed lifetime income, and indexed life insurance, comparing multiple top-rated carriers to find the right fit for each person, not pushing one company's product. My goal is to make retirement planning simple and stress-free, so you can feel confident your money will last as long as you do.

Proudly serving retirees and pre-retirees across Boca Raton, Miami-Dade County, and the greater Miami- Ft. Lauderdale area.

Licenses & qualifications

  • Licensed in: Florida, Iowa, Minnesota, Washington, South Carolina, California, Oklahoma
  • National Producer Number: 10308000
  • 20+ years of experience
  • Access to 20+ top-rated carriers

Why clients choose me

  • I compare multiple carriers to find your best fit
  • Straightforward advice with no pressure
  • Principal protection and guaranteed-income options
  • An annual review, not just support at signup

Real reviews, straight from Google

What are clients in Boca Raton saying?

These reviews come directly from my Google Business Profile. I can't edit them, and I wouldn't want to.

My gift to you

Free planning resources, no strings attached

Whether we ever work together or not, these will help you protect your retirement.

Free Inflation-Proof Retirement Guide cover

Free Inflation-Proof Retirement Guide

How inflation quietly eats retirement savings, and the protection-first strategies that guard against it.

Free Annuity Buyer's Guide cover

Free Annuity Buyer's Guide

The plain-English guide to fixed and indexed annuities: how they work, what to watch for, and the questions to ask before you buy.

Zero pressure. Ever.

Book a Free Consultation

Pick a time that works for you. Ask questions, compare options, get straight answers. If I'm not the right fit, I'll tell you and point you in the right direction anyway.

Prefer to talk right now? Call or text (561) 287-3456

Good questions

Frequently asked questions

Pick a topic. Straight answers, no jargon.

Does it cost anything to meet with you about my retirement money?
No. There's no fee for our conversation or for setting up an annuity. The insurance carrier compensates me when you choose a product, and it doesn't reduce your deposit or your rate. What you get is someone who compares 20+ carriers instead of quoting just one.
Are the annuities you offer 'safe'?
The fixed and fixed indexed annuities I place protect your principal from market losses, and those guarantees are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing carrier. That's exactly why I only work with highly rated companies and show you each carrier's rating before you decide.
Do you manage money in the stock market or sell mutual funds?
No. I focus on protection-first, insurance-based retirement strategies: fixed and fixed indexed annuities, guaranteed lifetime income, and indexed life insurance. These are not stock-market investments, so your principal isn't exposed to market losses. If you want direct market investing or securities, I'll tell you honestly and point you to a registered advisor.
Can I move my 401(k) or IRA without paying taxes?
Usually, yes. Qualified funds can typically transfer directly into an annuity as a tax-free rollover, with no taxes triggered by the move itself. Whether you should depends on your timeline, income needs, and how much market risk you want. That is a planning conversation, not a sales pitch.
Which areas do you serve?
I work with clients across Boca Raton, Miami-Dade County, and the greater Miami- Ft. Lauderdale area, and I'm licensed in Florida, Iowa, Minnesota, Washington, South Carolina, California, Oklahoma. Most planning sessions happen right over the phone or Zoom.
How does a fixed indexed annuity credit interest?
Each year the carrier measures an index such as the S&P 500. If it rose, you're credited interest up to a cap or participation rate. If it fell, you're credited zero rather than losing money. Your credited gains lock in and can't be taken back by a later downturn.
Is my principal really protected in an FIA?
Yes. Your principal and any locked-in gains are contractually protected from market losses, backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing carrier. That's why I only place FIAs with highly rated companies and show you the ratings first.
What's the catch with a fixed indexed annuity?
Two trade-offs. Your upside is limited by a cap or participation rate, and surrender charges apply if you withdraw more than the free amount during the surrender period, often 5 to 10 years. An FIA rewards money you can leave to grow, so I make sure the surrender schedule fits your timeline before recommending one.
What's the difference between an FIA and a variable annuity?
A variable annuity invests directly in the market, so your principal can lose value and it carries higher fees. An FIA is not invested in the market. It credits interest based on an index while your principal is protected from market losses. I offer fixed and indexed annuities, not variable or securities products.
Can I add guaranteed lifetime income to an FIA?
Yes. Most FIAs offer an optional income rider that turns the annuity into a paycheck for life, often for a small annual fee. We only add it if guaranteed income is one of your goals, and I'll show you exactly what it costs and pays.
How is a MYGA different from a bank CD?
Both give you a guaranteed rate for a set term, but a MYGA grows tax-deferred, so you're not taxed on the interest until you withdraw it, and rates are often higher than comparable CDs. The trade-off is that a MYGA is designed to be held for the full term, with surrender charges for early withdrawals beyond the free amount.
Is a fixed annuity safe?
Fixed annuities are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance carrier, which is why carrier ratings matter. They aren't FDIC insured like a bank product, so I only work with highly rated carriers and show you each company's rating before you decide.
What interest rate can I get right now?
Rates change constantly and vary by carrier, term length, and deposit size. That's exactly why I compare 20+ carriers instead of quoting one. Tell me your timeline and I'll show you the strongest current rates you qualify for.
Can I access my money if I need it?
Most contracts allow penalty-free withdrawals of around 10% of the value each year, with full access after the surrender period ends. Withdrawals before age 59 and a half may also face a 10% IRS penalty, so we match the term to money you won't need in the short run.
What happens to my fixed annuity when I die?
Any remaining value passes directly to your named beneficiaries, typically skipping probate. We choose the beneficiary structure that fits your wishes when the contract is set up.
How much income will an annuity pay me?
It depends on your deposit, your age, when income starts, and the payout option you choose. As a rough example, a lifetime income rider often pays 5 to 7 percent of the benefit base each year when started in your late 60s. I'll show you exact carrier quotes before you decide anything.
Can I really not outlive this income?
That's the point of a lifetime income rider. The guaranteed payments continue for as long as you live, even if the account value runs to zero, backed by the issuing carrier. If you choose a joint option, they continue for your spouse's life too.
When should I turn on the income?
You don't have to decide today. Many people let the benefit base grow for several years, then switch income on at retirement. We plan the start date around when you'll actually need the paycheck, and the longer you wait, the higher the payout usually is.
What happens to the money when I pass away?
With most modern income annuities, any remaining account value passes to your beneficiaries, so you're not choosing between income for you and a legacy for them. We structure the contract so nothing is lost to the insurance company unnecessarily.
Is this the same as a pension?
It works like one. A pension and a lifetime income annuity both pay you a guaranteed check for life. Since most people no longer have a traditional pension, an income annuity is how many retirees create their own.
How does an IUL build tax-free income?
Cash value grows tax-deferred based on index performance, with a floor that protects against market losses. In retirement you can access that value through policy loans, which are generally income-tax-free when the policy is structured and funded correctly. Structure and funding matter enormously, so I walk you through a full illustration first.
Can I lose money in an IUL?
Credited interest can't go negative in most designs, but policy fees and the cost of insurance still apply, so an underfunded IUL can lose value. That's why proper design and consistent funding are essential, and why I review these policies with clients every year.
How is an IUL different from a 401(k) or Roth IRA?
A 401(k) is invested directly in the market with contribution limits; an IUL is life insurance with cash value tied to an index, a 0% floor, no IRS contribution limit, and tax-free access through loans. They complement each other. An IUL is not a replacement for an employer match.
Who is an IUL not a good fit for?
Anyone who can't fund it consistently for the long term, or who hasn't yet captured a full employer 401(k) match. An IUL rewards patient, well-funded money. If that's not your situation, I'll tell you honestly and point you to a better tool.
Do I need a medical exam for an IUL?
Sometimes, but not always. Many carriers offer accelerated underwriting with no exam for qualified applicants. I'll tell you upfront which options skip the exam based on your age and health.
Will I owe taxes if I roll over my 401(k) or IRA?
Usually not. A direct rollover or trustee-to-trustee transfer of qualified funds into an annuity is generally not a taxable event, because the money never touches your hands. We handle it as a direct transfer specifically to avoid triggering taxes, and I always recommend confirming with your tax professional.
Should I roll over my old 401(k) at all?
Not always, and I'll tell you honestly. It depends on your fees, investment options, income needs, and how much market risk you want. If your current plan is serving you well, I'll say so. Where a rollover helps is moving money you can't afford to lose out of full market exposure.
What does a rollover protect me from?
Sequence-of-returns risk, the danger of a market crash early in retirement when you're withdrawing income. Moving a portion into a protected annuity means that money can't lose value to a downturn, and can be turned into guaranteed income you can't outlive.
Do I lose access to my money after a rollover?
No, but access has rules. Most annuities allow penalty-free withdrawals of around 10% per year, with the rest available after the surrender period. Withdrawals before age 59 and a half may face a 10% IRS penalty. We size the transfer so you keep enough liquid elsewhere.
Can I roll over only part of my account?
Yes. Many people protect a portion, enough to cover essential income, and leave the rest invested for growth. We decide together how much belongs in protected money versus market money based on your goals.

Ready to protect what you've built?

Get your retirement strategy online, or book a free call first. Whichever feels right.

Prefer to talk? Call or text (561) 287-3456