A whole life annuity due is an insurance financial product that provides a steady income to the annuitant (receiver of the annuity) for the rest of their life. This type of annuity is available for purchase at any age and usually pays out monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually, beginning at a specified age. The annuity payments are guaranteed for the lifetime of the annuitant, provided that the insurance company issuing the annuity remains solvent.

The amount of money an individual would receive from an annuity due is determined by different factors such as age, plan type, single or joint purchase, tax status and the annuity rate. Also, the rate of return may be based on the interest rates available when the annuity was purchased or on the performance of an underlying investment vehicle, such as the stock market.

Unlike a standard life annuity, payments for a whole life annuity due are due immediately the moment the policy is purchased. This provides more flexibility for annuitants, as the payments can be received as soon as the annuity is purchased. Furthermore, if the annuitant dies, the remaining payments are in most cases shared with a beneficiary, as the annuity pays out until the whole annuity contract is extinguished.

Whole life annuities can provide a substantial source of retirement income for individuals in need of a predetermined lump sum on a regular basis. They are an ideal way of protecting the purchasing power of retirees and reducing their dependency on government issued programs like Social Security. Furthermore, due to the product's guaranteed life long pay-out, annuity due’s can be a great way to preserve wealth and serve as a hedge against inflation.

Before making a purchase, it is imperative to carefully consider all potential scenarios, be well informed of the available options and always consult a financial expert before making a decision. This is especially important with annuity due’s, as they take away the annuitant’s liquidity, meaning that the money paid can’t be easily accessed if unexpected circumstances arise.