Ordinary Annuity vs. Annuity Due: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Updated on November 7, 2023
An Ordinary Annuity makes payments at the end of each period, while an Annuity Due requires payments at the beginning of each period.
Key Differences
In the world of finance, an Ordinary Annuity refers to a series of equal payments made at the end of consecutive periods, like months or years. Conversely, an Annuity Due designates payments that are made at the beginning of each of these periods. Both these annuities are tools of financial planning, but their timing distinction affects their value and utility.
For an individual receiving payments, an Ordinary Annuity will provide the funds at the close of each period. For instance, if it's a monthly scheme, the payout happens at the month's end. On the other hand, with an Annuity Due, one would receive the payment at the month's start. This slight shift in timing can affect the present value and future value of the annuity.
From an investment perspective, an Ordinary Annuity implies that the interest accrues for the full period before a payment is made. In contrast, an Annuity Due allows the interest to start accruing right after the payment, given that payments are made upfront. This leads to an Annuity Due having a higher future value than an Ordinary Annuity if all other factors remain constant.
For those who are looking to save or invest, choosing between an Ordinary Annuity and an Annuity Due can impact their financial planning. While an Ordinary Annuity can be seen as allowing more time before parting with funds, an Annuity Due requires upfront payments, which can be advantageous for those prioritizing immediate interest accrual.
Comparison Chart
Payment Timing
End of the period
Beginning of the period
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Interest Accrual Start
After payment
Immediately after payment
Future Value
Typically lower
Typically higher
Present Value
Typically higher
Typically lower
Typical Users
End-period investors
Upfront payment investors
Ordinary Annuity and Annuity Due Definitions
Ordinary Annuity
A financial tool offering payments at periods' end.
I prefer the Ordinary Annuity as it aligns with my end-of-month financial planning.
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Annuity Due
A financial mechanism where interest begins accruing immediately post payment.
With my Annuity Due, I benefit from immediate interest accumulation after each payment.
Ordinary Annuity
Represents a deferred payment system.
My Ordinary Annuity is structured to pay after my investment has earned interest.
Annuity Due
An annuity variant prioritizing early period payments.
I chose the Annuity Due to align with my early-month financial obligations.
Ordinary Annuity
A series of equal payments made at regular intervals, specifically at the end of each period.
I receive my retirement funds from an Ordinary Annuity at the end of every month.
Annuity Due
Represents an upfront payment system in annuities.
My Annuity Due is structured for upfront monthly payouts, aiding my early-month expenditures.
Ordinary Annuity
An annuity that provides consistent payouts at the close of designated intervals.
Through my Ordinary Annuity, I receive the same amount at the end of every year.
Annuity Due
A tool that offers consistent payouts at the commencement of set intervals.
Through my Annuity Due, I'm assured of a fixed sum at the start of every quarter.
Ordinary Annuity
An annuity where the interest starts accruing after the payment.
My Ordinary Annuity allows my money to grow after each payment cycle.
Annuity Due
An annuity that requires payments to be made at the start of each period.
My Annuity Due ensures I get my funds at the beginning of every month.
FAQs
Does an Annuity Due have a higher future value than an Ordinary Annuity?
Typically, an Annuity Due has a higher future value than an Ordinary Annuity due to immediate interest accrual.
Can I choose between receiving an Ordinary Annuity or an Annuity Due?
Yes, depending on the terms of the financial institution or agreement, you may have a choice.
Can an Ordinary Annuity be converted to an Annuity Due?
With specific financial adjustments and agreements, it's possible to convert from one annuity type to the other.
Are both Ordinary Annuities and Annuity Dues used for retirement plans?
Yes, both can be structured into retirement plans depending on individual preferences and financial planning.
How does an Annuity Due differ from an Ordinary Annuity?
An Annuity Due requires payments at the beginning of each period, unlike an Ordinary Annuity which pays at the end.
Why would someone opt for an Ordinary Annuity over an Annuity Due?
Someone might choose an Ordinary Annuity if they prefer payments at the end of periods or want higher present value.
What is an Ordinary Annuity?
An Ordinary Annuity is a series of equal payments made at the end of consecutive periods.
When do I get paid with an Annuity Due if it's a yearly scheme?
For a yearly scheme, an Annuity Due will pay you at the beginning of the year.
When does interest start accruing for an Ordinary Annuity?
Interest for an Ordinary Annuity starts accruing after the payment.
Which annuity type has a higher present value?
An Ordinary Annuity typically has a higher present value than an Annuity Due.
Are there tax implications for both Ordinary Annuities and Annuity Dues?
Yes, tax implications can vary based on location and specific annuity details, so consulting a tax professional is advisable.
Are there specific scenarios where an Annuity Due is more beneficial?
An Annuity Due can be beneficial for those needing upfront payments, such as for immediate expenses or investments.
Is an Annuity Due preferable for those wanting immediate payments?
Yes, an Annuity Due provides payments at the start of each period, making it ideal for those seeking immediate funds.
Can interest rates affect the choice between an Ordinary Annuity and an Annuity Due?
Yes, prevailing interest rates can influence the attractiveness of each annuity type.
Is the difference between the two annuities just about timing?
Primarily, yes; the main distinction lies in payment timing, which affects interest accrual and value.
How does payment timing impact the value of the annuity?
The timing affects interest accrual and consequently the present and future values of the annuity.
Do all financial institutions offer both types of annuities?
Not necessarily. Availability depends on the institution and their offered financial products.
Can I switch between the two annuities during the tenure of my investment?
Switching might be possible but typically involves certain terms, conditions, and potential penalties.
Which annuity type is more common in the market?
Both types are prevalent, but the choice often depends on individual needs, financial products, and institutional offerings.
Is there a significant difference in the returns between Ordinary Annuity and Annuity Due?
While the fundamental difference is timing, this can lead to variances in present and future values, affecting overall returns.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
