Retirement is one of the key financial goals for many people. Saving early and often is important. So is taking advantage of products and accounts designed specifically for retirement. Tax advantages are a key feature of annuities, IRAs and employer sponsored retirement savings plans, such as 401(k), 403(b) and 457(b) plans. Any earnings growth in these products is generally tax-deferred until you make withdrawals, generally when you are retired and may well be in a lower tax bracket.