When recommending an annuity purchase, which factor is NOT used to determine suitability?

When recommending an annuity purchase, the suitability of the product for a particular applicant typically hinges on their income level, financial goals, and age. These factors help assess the applicant's financial situation, objectives for using the annuity, and their potential longevity in relation to the investment.

The applicant's income level is crucial as it helps in understanding how much they can afford to invest and if the annuity aligns with their retirement plans. Similarly, financial goals are essential since they ensure that the annuity will meet the client’s objectives, whether it's for retirement, wealth preservation, or other financial targets. Age is another significant factor; it can indicate the time horizon for the investment and the retirement-related needs of the applicant.

However, the applicant's county of residence does not directly impact the suitability of an annuity. While geographic location might affect regulatory considerations or insurance product availability, it does not fundamentally influence the individual’s financial needs, circumstances, or objectives. Therefore, this factor is not considered when determining the appropriateness of an annuity purchase.