Michael Sams Helps Couple Earn 5.10% on $200,000 with a Safe, No-Risk Option

When a local couple walked into Michael Sams’ office for a routine Medicare review, they had no idea they were about to make a major financial move—one that could earn them more than $30,000 in interest over the next three years.

Let’s take a look at how it all came together.

The Situation: A Lot of Savings, But Not Much Growth

As we always do here at Sams/Hockaday, Michael went beyond the standard Medicare checklist. During their client needs assessment, he took a step back to look at the couple’s broader financial picture, and that’s when something caught his eye.

They had a large sum of money sitting in the bank, not losing money, but definitely not growing either.

Like many retirees, this couple was concerned about risk. They’d weathered their fair share of market ups and downs and were understandably cautious. Their goal wasn’t to chase high returns—it was to keep their money safe while still getting a reasonable return.

And Michael knew exactly how to help.

Their Choices: 3 Viable Options

Together, they discussed three main directions they could take:

1. Invest in the stock market: There’s potential for high gains, but it comes with real risk. One downturn could erase years of growth overnight.
2. They were considering a 9-month CD at around 4% interest. Not bad, but not great. And in 9 months, they'd be back to rate shopping with no guarantee that similar rates will be available. The short term and hassle didn’t appeal to them.
3. A contract offered by a reputable insurance company that provides a fixed annual interest rate for a set number of years. It’s for people who want predictable, low-risk growth, without the market volatility or short-term headaches.

The Solution: A Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA)

After reviewing their options, Michael introduced them to a 3-year MYGA that would guarantee them an interest rate of 5.10% annually.

This type of annuity is often overlooked, but for conservative investors, it can be a smart and simple solution. You invest a lump sum, and in return, you get a guaranteed return, no strings attached.

Here’s what made it stand out:

• ‍No fees
• No market exposure
• No surprises

“They know to the penny what their annual statement will say,” Michael explains.

The Outcome: Peace of Mind and Competitive Returns

By the end of the appointment, the couple decided to move forward. They wrote a check for $200,000 on the spot.

Thanks to Michael’s guidance, they now have:

• A guaranteed 5.10% return‍
• No need to monitor the account or shop for new rates every few months
• Complete confidence that their money is protected

This wasn’t about taking on big risks or chasing flashy returns.

It was about finding a solid, long-term solution for money they didn’t need to live on, but still wanted to grow in a safe place, earning the most competitive interest available.

Is an Annuity Right for You?

This strategy won’t be right for everyone. But if you’re:

• Sitting on extra savings you don’t need right away
• Wanting better returns than what your bank is offering
• Not interested in stock market risk

...it may be worth having a conversation.

At Sams/Hockaday, our job is to help you make the most of what you’ve worked hard to save.

Whether it’s Medicare, life insurance, retirement planning, or finding safe, smart options for your money, we’re here to help every step of the way.