Best MYGAs of 2026
Multi-year guaranteed annuities offer the simplest deal in retirement planning: a locked-in rate for a set number of years, with tax-deferred growth. Here are the carriers and products that consistently deliver the best combination of rates, financial strength, and contract terms.
The short version
If you want the highest rate from the strongest carrier with the cleanest contract, look at Athene and Global Atlantic for rate leadership, MassMutual for maximum financial strength (A++ rated), and North Americanfor term flexibility. But rates change weekly — the “best” MYGA today might not be the best next month. What doesn't change is the carrier's financial strength and contract quality.
Top MYGA Products Compared
| Carrier / Product | AM Best | Terms | Min Premium | Free Withdrawal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Athene Athene Agility | A | 3, 5, 7, 10 yr | $10,000 | 10% annually |
MassMutual MassMutual Stable Voyage | A++ | 3, 5, 7 yr | $10,000 | 10% annually |
Global Atlantic SecureKey | A | 3, 5, 7 yr | $10,000 | 10% annually |
North American (Sammons) Guarantee Choice | A+ | 3, 5, 7, 10 yr | $10,000 | 10% annually |
American Equity GuaranteeShield | A- | 3, 5, 7, 10 yr | $10,000 | 10% annually |
Rates not shown because they change weekly. Use our MYGA vs CD comparison tool or talk to an advisor for today's exact rates.
Notable MYGA Products
Athene
Athene Agility
Consistently top-tier rates across all terms. Strong financial backing from Apollo Global.
MassMutual
MassMutual Stable Voyage
Highest AM Best rating possible. Mutual company — policyholders come first, not shareholders.
Global Atlantic
SecureKey
Backed by KKR. Frequently among the top 3 rates in all terms. Clean contract language.
North American (Sammons)
Guarantee Choice
Sammons Financial subsidiary. Offers wide term flexibility and nursing home waiver in most states.
American Equity
GuaranteeShield
One of the largest fixed annuity writers in the US. Good rate consistency across terms.
What to Look for in a MYGA
Don't just chase the highest rate. Here are the six factors that actually determine whether a MYGA is right for you.
Guaranteed Rate
The annual interest rate locked in for the full surrender period. Higher is better — but only if the carrier behind it is strong.
AM Best Rating
The financial strength of the insurance company backing your annuity. Stick with A- or higher. Your money is only as safe as the carrier.
Surrender Period
How long your money is locked up. Shorter terms (3 years) give flexibility; longer terms (7–10 years) typically pay higher rates.
Free Withdrawal
Most MYGAs let you take 10% per year without penalty. Some offer more. This is your liquidity safety valve.
Minimum Premium
The least you can deposit. Most start at $10,000–$25,000. Higher minimums sometimes unlock bonus rates.
Tax Qualification
MYGAs work in both qualified (IRA/401k rollover) and non-qualified (after-tax) accounts. Non-qualified gets tax deferral — a real advantage over CDs.
MYGA vs CD: The 60-second version
Both guarantee a fixed rate. The difference: MYGAs grow tax-deferred (you don't pay taxes on interest until you withdraw), typically offer higher rates, and are backed by insurance carriers instead of banks. CDs offer FDIC insurance and shorter terms. For money you won't need for 3+ years, MYGAs usually win on after-tax return.
Run the MYGA vs CD comparisonWant the full breakdown? Read our comprehensive guide: What Is a MYGA? Everything You Need to Know →
Rates change weekly. Talk to someone who can pull live quotes for your specific situation.