The choice between an IRA and an annuity can be tricky, especially in today's unusual economic landscape. Getty Images

The retirement landscape has shifted dramatically over the past few decades. Gone are the days when most retirees could count on a generous company pension to carry them through their golden years. Today's seniors are largely on their own, left to navigate a complex web of savings vehicles , investment options and tax strategies to build the financial security they'll need for retirement. This reality has created tremendous pressure in terms of making smart choices about where and how to invest their retirement dollars.

As a result, retirement planning can feel a lot like assembling a puzzle. You have the pieces, but the picture isn't clear until everything

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