Fixed Index Annuities - what's the catch? They can be a safety net for your retirement when preserving what you've accumulated starts to make more sense for you. You can gain when the market does well, but not lose when it doesn't.... Giving you principal protection. FIA's are safe money products that can offer several benefits, including bonuses for starting one or even lifetime guaranteed income. You can only roll over your 401(k) if you are no longer working for the employer who offered it to