Albert Einstein was ahead of his time. He revolutionized physics thinking, and his theory beginning with the breakout year of 1905, is still the basics of quantum physics today, over 100 years later. When Einstein is remembered for his work, it is almost always E = mc², the theory of relativity. However, I think a more interesting part of Einstein’s life was his view on compound interest.

Albert Einstein called compound interest “the greatest mathematical discovery of all time.”

Power of tax deferral

Compound interest allows the account to grow by earning interest on the original investment and any accumulated interest. Here is a generally accepted definition of compound interest.

The interest is calculated on the initial principal and the accumulated interest of prior periods. Compound interest differs from simple interest in that simple interest is calculated solely as a percentage of the principal sum.

Compound interest is offered by banks and savings institutions and is also referred to as Double Compounding. The interest is credited, but it is taxable. The downside is when the interest is credited to your account and comes with tax liability.

Insurance companies offer products that allow for tax deferral and compounding but, under certain situations, can also defer the tax liability. These products are called annuities and life insurance. If the accumulated funds are left untouched, the tax liability is deferred.

This concept is referred to as triple compounding

If some of your savings are placed in an annuity, the benefit of tax deferral provides for:

• Interest on your principal

• Interest on your interest and

• Interest on your tax saving, because your interest is free from current income tax in an annuity, can all continue to compound instead of being withdrawn for tax payments.

Is that all there is? No! There is also quantum compounding.

This is building on triple compounding by adding features only found on certain insurance company annuities.

• A bonus of 5% to 10% may be available on funds deposited immediate and guaranteed

• Long-term care benefit riders may be available

• Lifetime income provisions

• Annual moveable minimum guarantees

• Full guarantees against loss and risk based on the insurance company’s ability to pay.

• Probate avoidance using a named beneficiary

Consider the use of quantum annuities for added benefits and added value for yourself and your heirs.

Brad Rhodes lives in Lexington and is a member of Syndicated Columnists