Annuity Due

Definition

An annuity due is a series of equal payments made at the beginning of each period over a specified duration. This payment structure contrasts with an ordinary annuity, where payments are made at the end of each period. Annuity due is crucial for understanding cash flow timing and its effect on the present and future value of money.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In an annuity due, payments are made at the start of each period, which results in higher present and future values compared to ordinary annuities.
2. To calculate the present value of an annuity due, you can use the formula for ordinary annuities and then multiply by (1 + r), where r is the interest rate.
3. Annuity due is commonly used in lease agreements and insurance policies, where payments are often made upfront.
4. Understanding the timing of cash flows in an annuity due is critical for effective financial planning and analysis.
5. An annuity due offers less risk over time compared to other payment structures because receiving payments earlier allows for investment opportunities.

Review Questions

• How does the timing of payments in an annuity due impact its present value compared to an ordinary annuity?
  • The timing of payments significantly impacts the present value of an annuity due. Since payments are received at the beginning of each period, they are discounted for one less period compared to an ordinary annuity, resulting in a higher present value. This means that when considering investment decisions or financing options, recognizing that earlier cash flows can be more valuable is essential.
• Calculate the present value of an annuity due with annual payments of $1,000 for 5 years at an interest rate of 5%. What does this reveal about the value of early cash flow?
  • To calculate the present value of an annuity due, first find the present value of an ordinary annuity using the formula: PV = Pmt × [(1 - (1 + r)^{-n}) / r], which gives you $4,329.48. Then multiply this by (1 + r), resulting in a present value of approximately $4,556.95. This calculation shows that receiving cash earlier enhances its total value due to the reduced discounting effect.
• Evaluate how annuities due might affect long-term financial strategies and investment decisions.
  • In long-term financial strategies, using annuities due can provide a more favorable cash flow situation by ensuring that funds are available sooner for reinvestment or expenses. This earlier access to money allows individuals or businesses to leverage investments effectively, generating returns that can compound over time. Understanding the benefits of cash flow timing helps in structuring financing options to maximize overall financial health.

Related terms

Present Value: The current worth of a future sum of money or stream of cash flows given a specified rate of return.

Future Value: The value of a current asset at a specified date in the future based on an assumed rate of growth.

Ordinary Annuity: A series of equal payments made at the end of each period, as opposed to at the beginning, like an annuity due.