MassMutual Annuity Review (2026)

Written by Jason Caudill, MBA | Reviewed by My Annuity Store Editorial Team
Published February 28, 2026 · Updated March 3, 2026

MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company carries the highest possible AM Best rating — A++ (Superior) — shared by fewer than 2% of all U.S. insurers. Known for financial conservatism and long-term stability, MassMutual is a top choice for savers who prioritize safety and want rates that are consistently competitive across a full range of MYGA terms.

This review covers MassMutual Ascend’s financial ratings, full MYGA product lineup with live rates, fixed index annuity products, and how to reach them directly.

MassMutual Ascend at a Glance

Detail Information
Full Legal Name MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company
Parent Company Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual)
Headquarters Cincinnati, Ohio
AM Best Rating A++ (Superior) — highest possible
S&P Rating AA+ (Very Strong)
Moody’s Rating Aa3
Comdex Score 98 out of 100
Total Assets (MassMutual) $350+ billion
Products Offered MYGAs, Fixed Index Annuities
States Available 49 states + D.C. (not available in New York)
Minimum Premium $10,000 (most products)

MassMutual’s Financial Strength

MassMutual is one of only a handful of U.S. life insurers to hold an A++ from AM Best — the very top of the scale. Its parent, Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co., has been in continuous operation since 1851 and remains a mutual company, meaning it’s owned by policyholders, not shareholders.

The company’s Comdex score of 98 out of 100 places it among the top-rated carriers in the country. S&P’s AA+ rating is one notch below its highest possible, while Moody’s Aa3 reflects equally strong long-term financial durability.

For a client putting $250,000 into an annuity for seven years, carrier stability matters as much as rate. MassMutual Ascend’s balance sheet and parent company resources have historically been among the most conservative and well-capitalized in the industry.

What Types of Annuities Does MassMutual Ascend Offer?

  • Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities (MYGAs) — Locked guaranteed interest rates from 2 to 7 years. MassMutual Ascend offers one of the deepest MYGA lineups in the market, with multiple products and premium tiers.
  • Fixed Index Annuities (FIAs) — Growth linked to market indexes with a zero-loss floor. MassMutual Ascend’s FIA lineup includes income rider options for guaranteed lifetime withdrawals.

MassMutual Ascend MYGA Products and Current Rates

Live rates from AnnuityRateWatch · Rates updated March 23, 2026

Product Term Rate (APY) Min Premium Last Rate Change
Premier Voyage 2
AM Best A++ 		2 Years 3.45% $1,000,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 2
AM Best A++ 		2 Years 3.4% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 2
AM Best A++ 		2 Years 3.25% $50,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 2
AM Best A++ 		2 Years 3.15% $10,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 2
AM Best A++ 		2 Years 3.15% $25,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 3
AM Best A++ 		3 Years 4.4% $1,000,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 3
AM Best A++ 		3 Years 4.35% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Stable Voyage 3
AM Best A++ 		3 Years 4.3% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 3
AM Best A++ 		3 Years 4.2% $50,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 3
AM Best A++ 		3 Years 4.1% $10,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 3
AM Best A++ 		3 Years 4.1% $25,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Stable Voyage 3
AM Best A++ 		3 Years 4.05% $10,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
SecureGain 3 2025
AM Best A++ 		3 Years 3.95% $100,000+ Mar 2, 2026 View Details →
SecureGain 3 2025
AM Best A++ 		3 Years 3.6% $25,000+ Mar 2, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 4
AM Best A++ 		4 Years 4.4% $1,000,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 4
AM Best A++ 		4 Years 4.35% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Stable Voyage 4
AM Best A++ 		4 Years 4.3% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 4
AM Best A++ 		4 Years 4.2% $50,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 4
AM Best A++ 		4 Years 4.1% $10,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 4
AM Best A++ 		4 Years 4.1% $25,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Stable Voyage 4
AM Best A++ 		4 Years 4.05% $10,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 5
AM Best A++ 		5 Years 4.7% $1,000,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 5
AM Best A++ 		5 Years 4.65% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
SecureGain 5 2025
AM Best A++ 		5 Years 4.65% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Stable Voyage 5
AM Best A++ 		5 Years 4.6% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 5
AM Best A++ 		5 Years 4.5% $50,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 5
AM Best A++ 		5 Years 4.4% $10,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 5
AM Best A++ 		5 Years 4.4% $25,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Stable Voyage 5
AM Best A++ 		5 Years 4.35% $10,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
SecureGain 5 2025
AM Best A++ 		5 Years 4.35% $25,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 6
AM Best A++ 		6 Years 4.7% $1,000,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 6
AM Best A++ 		6 Years 4.65% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 6
AM Best A++ 		6 Years 4.5% $50,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 6
AM Best A++ 		6 Years 4.4% $10,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 6
AM Best A++ 		6 Years 4.4% $25,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 7
AM Best A++ 		7 Years 4.75% $1,000,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 7
AM Best A++ 		7 Years 4.7% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
SecureGain 7 2025
AM Best A++ 		7 Years 4.7% $100,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 7
AM Best A++ 		7 Years 4.55% $50,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 7
AM Best A++ 		7 Years 4.45% $10,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
Premier Voyage 7
AM Best A++ 		7 Years 4.45% $25,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →
SecureGain 7 2025
AM Best A++ 		7 Years 4.4% $25,000+ Mar 23, 2026 View Details →

Rates apply to standard products. State availability varies. Not an offer or solicitation. Always verify current rates before purchasing.

MassMutual Ascend offers three distinct MYGA product families, each designed for a slightly different customer profile:

Premier Voyage Series

Available in 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7-year terms — one of the most flexible MYGA lineups available. Minimum premium of $10,000, with rate tiers at $25K, $50K, $100K, and $1 million+. Ideal for clients who want flexibility in term length. Download the MYGA Brochure (PDF)

Stable Voyage Series

A simpler two-tier structure (standard and $100K+) with 3, 4, and 5-year terms. Best for clients who want straightforward terms and a highly rated carrier. Minimum premium $10,000.

SecureGain Series

Offered in 3, 5, and 7-year terms with minimum premium of $25,000. Competitive rates with a $100K+ tier. Download the SecureGain Brochure (PDF)

MassMutual Ascend Fixed Index Annuity Products

MassMutual Ascend offers several FIA products with index crediting strategies and optional income riders:

American Legend 7

A 7-year FIA with multiple index options and an optional guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit rider. Popular with clients planning for retirement income 7–10 years out. Read our full American Legend 7 review or download the brochure (PDF).

Who Is MassMutual Ascend Best For?

  • Safety-first savers who want the absolute highest rated carrier available. An A++ from AM Best is as good as it gets.
  • Clients with $25,000 or more who want access to MassMutual’s competitive rate tiers. The $25K and $100K thresholds unlock meaningfully higher rates.
  • Long-term accumulators who can commit to 5–7 year terms and want to maximize tax-deferred growth.
  • Conservative retirees rolling over CDs or savings who want a household-name carrier with 170+ years of history.

MassMutual Ascend is not available in New York state. New York residents should see our full carrier directory for NY-approved alternatives.

Contact MassMutual Ascend

Contact Method Details
Website www.massmutualascend.com
Customer Service 1-800-272-2216
Mailing Address MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company
P.O. Box 5056
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Hours Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET

Work with My Annuity Store: We compare MassMutual Ascend products alongside 20+ other top carriers. Request a free quote or call 855-583-1104.

More MassMutual Ascend Product Reviews

We have published a deep-dive review of one of MassMutual Ascend’s most popular fixed index annuity products:

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Editorial Disclosure: Our editorial team independently reviews and rates annuity products. We may earn commissions when you request a quote through our partner links. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Learn more.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Annuity products vary by state and carrier. Always consult a licensed financial professional before making any financial decisions. My Annuity Store is an independent marketplace and does not provide investment advice.

Pros and Cons of Fixed Annuities

Before you commit to a fixed annuity, weigh the advantages and drawbacks for your retirement situation.

✓  Pros

  • ✓ Guaranteed rate locked in for the full term — no surprises
  • ✓ Principal is 100% protected from market losses
  • ✓ Often pays significantly more than CDs or savings accounts
  • ✓ Tax-deferred growth — no annual tax bill until withdrawal
  • ✓ Up to 10% annual free withdrawal without surrender charge
  • ✓ State guaranty association coverage (typically up to $250,000)
  • ✓ Simple to understand — no moving parts or index tracking

✗  Cons

  • ✗ Surrender charges apply if you withdraw more than 10% early
  • ✗ Not FDIC insured — backed by the insurance company, not the government
  • ✗ Earnings taxed as ordinary income (not capital gains rates)
  • ✗ 10% IRS early-withdrawal penalty before age 59½
  • ✗ Rate is fixed — you won't benefit if market rates rise
  • ✗ Less liquidity than a savings account or money market

Learn more: Are annuities safe?

Compare Top MYGA Rates by Term

See today's highest guaranteed rate from an A-rated carrier for each term length.

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3-Year MYGA
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5-Year MYGA
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7-Year MYGA
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Rates sourced from AnnuityRateWatch. A-rated carriers (AM Best) only. Not a solicitation. Rates vary by state. Verify before purchasing.

Types of Annuities

Insurance companies offer several types of annuities to fit different financial goals. Here's how they compare.

A MYGA (Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity) is the simplest fixed annuity. Your rate is guaranteed for the entire term — 3, 5, or 7 years. No market exposure, no index tracking. What you see is what you earn.

Best for: Savers who want a predictable, guaranteed return and are comfortable locking funds for a set term. Often compared to CDs but frequently pays more.

Learn more about MYGAs →

A Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA) links your interest credits to a market index (like the S&P 500) with a floor of 0% — so you can never lose principal. Upside is capped via participation rates or caps.

Best for: Investors who want some market participation with a safety net. More complex than MYGAs but potentially higher returns in strong market years.

Learn more about FIAs →

A SPIA (Single Premium Immediate Annuity) converts a lump sum into a guaranteed income stream — monthly checks that start within 30 days and continue for life or a set period.

Best for: Retirees who need guaranteed income immediately and want to eliminate the risk of outliving their money. The "pension replacement" product.

Learn more about SPIAs →

A Variable Annuity invests your premium in sub-accounts (similar to mutual funds). Returns fluctuate with the market — you can earn more but can also lose principal.

Best for: Long-term investors who want market exposure inside a tax-deferred wrapper and are comfortable with investment risk. Higher fees than fixed products.

Learn more about variable annuities →

A RILA (Registered Index-Linked Annuity) offers partial market participation with a defined buffer against losses (e.g., 10% or 20%). Unlike FIAs, RILAs can lose money — but losses are limited.

Best for: Investors willing to accept limited downside in exchange for higher upside potential than a traditional FIA. A middle ground between fixed and variable.

Learn more about RILAs →

Rate Methodology

My Annuity Store monitors MYGA rates from over 50 A-rated insurance carriers via AnnuityRateWatch. Our rate data refreshes every 6 hours.

To make our list, a carrier must be rated A− or better by AM Best — a financial strength rating that indicates the insurer's ability to meet obligations. Carriers with ratings of B++ or lower are excluded regardless of how attractive their rate appears.

Rates are sorted by highest guaranteed APY within each term group. Products using simple interest (SI) are labeled — the effective compound yield is lower than the stated rate. Minimum premiums shown are for non-qualified (after-tax) purchases.

Athene Annuity & Life
MassMutual
Corebridge Financial
Global Atlantic
North American Company
Midland National
American Equity
New York Life
Gainbridge Life
American National
Nassau Life
Sentinel Security Life
Protective Life
Pacific Life
Nationwide
Equitrust Life
F&G Annuities & Life
Oceanview Life
Oxford Life
Puritan Life
American General (Corebridge)
Delaware Life
Guggenheim Life
Integrity Life
Kansas City Life
Lafayette Life
Ibexis Life
American Fidelity
Security Benefit
Standard Insurance Company
📊 Data: AnnuityRateWatch · A-rated carriers only · Updated daily

Frequently Asked Questions

The best MYGA rate available today is shown in the rate table above. Rates change daily — the table reflects current data updated every 6 hours from AnnuityRateWatch.
Yes. The interest rate shown at the time of purchase is contractually locked in for the entire term — whether 3, 5, or 7 years. Unlike CDs at banks, MYGA rates cannot be changed by the insurance company during the guaranteed period, regardless of what happens to market interest rates.
Fixed annuities are not FDIC insured, but they are protected by your state's guaranty association — typically up to $250,000 per insurance company. Beyond that, the financial strength of the carrier matters. We only list carriers rated A− or better by AM Best, which indicates strong ability to meet policyholder obligations.
Most MYGAs allow a free annual withdrawal of 10% of your account value without a surrender charge. Withdrawals beyond 10% trigger surrender charges, which typically start around 7% and decline by one percentage point per year until they reach zero. At maturity, you can withdraw your full balance with no penalty.
Growth inside a non-qualified (after-tax funded) annuity is tax-deferred — you owe no taxes until you withdraw. When you do withdraw, earnings are taxed as ordinary income, not at the lower capital gains rate. Withdrawals before age 59½ also incur a 10% IRS early-withdrawal penalty on the earnings portion.
At maturity, most carriers give you a free-look window (typically 30 days) during which you can withdraw your full balance, roll it into a new annuity (tax-free via a 1035 exchange), or annuitize for lifetime income. If you do nothing, the contract typically renews at a new rate — which may be lower than your original rate.
For most people with a 3–7 year time horizon, MYGAs currently pay significantly more than CDs. Top 5-year MYGAs are paying competitively above 5%, while the best 5-year CDs are around 4.50%. The tradeoff: MYGAs have larger surrender charges for early withdrawal than CDs typically impose.

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