ANNUITY GUIDE · 2025

The best annuities and top annuity companies for 2025

By David Racich, Owner and CEO of Brokers Alliance. Updated July 2025. A working look at annuity products that can deliver guaranteed income, tax-deferred growth, and flexible payout options.

01 · ANNUITY BASICS

What is an annuity?

An annuity is a financial product that provides a guaranteed income stream for a specified period or for life, in exchange for an upfront lump sum payment or a series of payments. There are several types available, each offering different benefits.

FX Fixed annuities
Provide guaranteed, fixed payments.
VA Variable annuities
Payments vary depending on the performance of the underlying investments.
IX Indexed annuities
Offer returns based on a stock market index with a guaranteed minimum return.
02 · WHY IT MATTERS

Why choose an annuity for retirement?

Annuities are often chosen for retirement planning because they build a stable financial foundation. Three benefits stand out.

GI Guaranteed income
A predictable, reliable income stream that can last for life.
TD Tax deferral
Money in the annuity grows tax-deferred, so taxes are not owed until withdrawals begin.
FL Flexibility
Choose how often payments arrive, whether monthly, quarterly, or annually.
03 · 2025 STANDOUTS

Standout annuities for 2025

These products are worth a close look for 2025, evaluated on guaranteed income, flexibility, and financial strength.

Guaranteed income Flexibility Financial strength
FG Fidelity & Guaranty Life ... IncomeShield 5-Year Fixed Indexed Annuity
Offers guaranteed income growth and competitive interest rates based on a market index. It provides tax-deferred growth, and payments can begin in as little as five years.
AL Allianz Life ... Allianz 222 Annuity
Offers fixed indexed returns with a 7% bonus on premiums, plus guaranteed income options, making it a strong choice for those seeking long-term growth.
NW Nationwide ... Peak 10 Fixed Indexed Annuity
Delivers high-growth potential tied to a stock market index with a 10-year surrender period, competitive rates, and guaranteed income options for retirees.
AE American Equity ... IncomeShield Annuity
American Equity's income-focused IncomeShield annuity, built around guaranteed income for retirement.

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