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Best 5 Year Fixed Annuity Rates for January 2026

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Top 5 Year Fixed Annuity Rates Preview

  • Knighthead Life Staysail 5*6.30% Simple
  • American Gulf Anchor MYGA*6.30%
  • Wichita National Security 5*6.25%
Example: $100,000 at 6.45% simple interest earns $6,450 annually (before taxes). Actual credited method & compounding may vary by contract.

*Illustrative snapshot. Click below for live updates & full comparison including carrier strength, liquidity, and renewal options.

Rates subject to change without notice. Availability & features vary by state and insurer. Guarantees are backed by the claims‑paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Not a bank product. Not FDIC insured. State guaranty association limits apply (vary by state).

5 Year MYGA Rates

Use the table below to compare live 5 year fixed annuity rates.
We recommend you use the state and age filters to see only annuity rates available to you.

Why We Don’t Recommend Atlantic Coast Life

The Atlantic Coast Life Safe Harbor Bonus Guarantee 6.45% annuity rate is a first-year teaser and the subsequent years drop, dragging the average down.

This carrier was recently forced to pause sales by regulators” and “If you pass away during the term, your heirs may not receive the full account value due to the lack of a standard death benefit.”

“Teaser Rate vs. Effective Yield” Table

Carrier

Advertised Rate

Real Effective Yield (YTM)

Death Benefit?

Liquidity?

Knighthead Life

6.30%

~5.58% (Compound)

✅ Yes

❌ None

Atlantic Coast Life

6.45%*

5.89%

❌ NO

❌ NO

“Warning: Some websites display the ‘Year 1’ bonus rate (6.45%) as the annual rate. The actual return over 5 years is significantly lower. Additionally, this product strips out standard protections like death benefits.”

Best 5 Year Fixed Annuity Rates Today

As of January 4, 2026, the best 5 year fixed annuity rate is 6.30% available in the American Gulf Anchor MYGA. For a detailed review, a downloadable brochure, and product calculators, click the product name in the table below.

You will notice in the table below that most of the best 5 year fixed annuity rates are offered by lesser rated insurance companies, and have little or no free withdrawals available. Note that Knighthead Life credits simple interest which means interest does not compound, so it’s effective yield is lower.

Try our simple vs. compounding interest calculator.

Carrier /
Product Name
AM Best
Rating
Rate
(Fixed)
Free Withdrawal
Yr 1 | Yr 2+
Action
 
KIGHTHEAD LIFE - Staysail 5 (simple interest) A- 6.30% None Apply
AMERICAN GULF - Anchor MYGA 5 B++ 6.30% None Apply
WICHITA NATIONAL LIFE - Security 5 MVA B+ 6.25% None Apply
AMERICAN GULF - Anchor MYGA 5 (with 10% free w/d) B++ 6.15% 10% | 10% Apply
REVOL-ONE - DirectGrowth 5 B++ 5.85% None Apply
REVOL-ONE - DirectGrowth 5 (with interest withdrawals) B++ 5.75% Interest Apply
KIGHTHEAD LIFE - Staysail 5 (simple interest) A- 5.85% 10% | 10% Apply
January 4, 2026. Rates subject to change; availability varies by state. Verify current rates and features before applying.

Fixed Annuity Calculator

Use our fixed annuity calculator to see how much interest you would earn in a fixed annuity. You only need to input a few pieces of information:

  • Your Investment amount
  • Annuity rate you have chosen from a table above
  • The annuity term (number of years)
  • Select compounding or simple interest; all rates listed on this page are compounding unless specified otherwise.
  • For compounding interest you can select how often interest compounds (we suggest annually if you are not sure).
Fixed Annuity Calculator
Initial Investment: $0.00
Maturity Value: $0.00
Total Interest Earned: $0.00

Results are estimates for informational purposes only.

Key Factors to Consider

After comparing fixed annuity rates and quotes, carefully consider these criteria to make sure a 5 year fixed annuity is the best option to meet your individual goals and objectives.

The best 5 year fixed annuity rate is currently 6.30% from carriers like Knighthead Life (A-) and American Gulf (B++); note there is no liquidity included at these rates.

Financial Strength Ratings

Annuity company financial ratings are important because annuity contracts are guaranteed by the claims paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Prioritize carriers with strong AM Best ratings (A- or higher) for claim-paying reliability:

  • A+ or A: North American, Reliance Standard, Nationwide (rates ~4.45-4.85%).
  • A-: Knighthead Life (6.30%), Brighthouse (4.80%).
  • B++ or B+: American Gulf (6.30%), Atlantic Coast Life (6.45%), Wichita National (6.25%). Lower ratings like B++ carry slightly higher risk but often yield top rates; balance with your risk tolerance.

Liquidity and Free Withdrawals

Fixed annuities limit early access via surrender charges (typically 5-7% year 1, declining over term), but many offer 10% annual free withdrawals after year 1:

  • Knighthead Life Staysail 5: 10% option at 5.75% simple (vs. 6.30% simple interest no withdrawal).
  • American Gulf Anchor MYGA 5: 10% option at 6.15% (vs. 6.30% no withdrawal).
  • Revol-One DirectGrowth 5: Interest-only or none.

An MVA adjusts the value of an early withdrawal based on changes in a specific interest rate index. If interest rates have risen since the annuity was purchased, the MVA will likely be a negative adjustment, decreasing your payout; if rates have fallen, it will be positive, increasing it. 

The MVA is typically only applied to withdrawals that exceed any penalty-free limits or to the entire contract if surrendered before the end of a surrender period.

Death Benefits

Full contract value almost always passes to beneficiaries upon death, often with interest credited to date. There are a few companies that do not provide full account value at death unless you add it as an option in exchange for a lower interest rate.

Best Fixed Annuity Rates by Term

Longer terms yield higher rates but lock funds longer. Use this table for quick comparison:

TermTop RateTop Provider (Rating)Best For
3 Years6.00%Mountain Life (B+)Short-term needs, high flexibility.
5 Years6.30%American Gulf Anchor MYGA (B++)Balanced growth/liquidity; current sweet spot.
7 Years5.85%Revol One Finacial (B++)Mid-retirees seeking max yield without decade commitment.
10 Years5.85%Revol One Finacial (B++)Long-horizon savers (e.g., under 60); highest ceiling but least liquidity.

What Is a 5 Year Fixed Annuity (MYGA)?

5-year fixed annuity is a financial contract between you and an insurance company that guarantees a fixed interest rate on your investment for exactly five years. Think of it as a longer-term CD with insurance company backing—your principal is protected, your rate is locked in, and your interest grows tax-deferred.

5 year fixed annuity illustration showing owner paying money to insurance company who then pays him interest and his investment back at the end.

How do Fixed Annuities Work?

The process is straightforward:

  • You deposit a lump sum with an insurance company
  • They guarantee a specific interest rate for the full 5-year term
  • Interest compounds over time (you earn interest on interest)
  • Your money grows tax-deferred until withdrawal
  • At the end of 5 years, you can withdraw, roll over, or convert to income payments

✓ Key Benefits

  • Guaranteed returns – No market risk
  • Principal protection – Your initial investment is safe
  • Tax-deferred growth – Pay taxes only when you withdraw
  • Predictable income – Know exactly what you’ll have in 5 years
  • Insurance backing – Protected by state guaranty associations

⚠ Important Considerations

  • Surrender charges – Penalties for early withdrawal (typically 5-10%)
  • Limited liquidity – Money is tied up for 5 years
  • Lower potential returns – Compared to stocks or equities
  • Ordinary income tax – Withdrawals taxed as income, not capital gains
  • Inflation risk – Fixed rate may not keep pace with inflation

Who Should Consider a 5 Year Fixed Annuity?

A five year annuity may be right for you if:

  • Have a medium-term savings goal (5+ years away)
  • Want guaranteed returns without market volatility
  • Are seeking portfolio diversification with a safe component
  • Need tax-deferred growth for retirement savings
  • Are risk-averse or approaching retirement
  • Won’t need access to these funds during the 5-year term

💡Note: When looking at any financial product, compare rates from different insurance companies. Understand all fees and surrender charges. Think about how a fixed annuity fits into your overall financial plan. We recommend you consult with a financial professional before making any decisions.

Are Annuity Rates Going Down?

5 year fixed annuity rates and fed rates historical trends line graph from 2020 to 2025.

📊 Understanding Historical Rate Trends: The “Lag” Effect

To understand where annuity rates are going, you have to look at where the Federal Reserve has been. There is a distinct relationship between the Federal Funds Rate (the red dashed line) and Fixed Annuity/MYGA rates (the blue solid line), as shown in the chart above.

The “Follow the Leader” Relationship

When the Federal Reserve raises interest rates, new bonds issued pay higher yields. Insurance companies invest in high-quality corporate and government bonds. So when these rates are higher they pass on some of those higher yields to you with higher annuity rates.

However, this doesn’t happen overnight. As the chart illustrates, there is a “Lagging Correlation.”

  • The Fed moves first: Notice how the red line spikes sharply in 2022.
  • Annuities follow: The blue line follows the same upward trajectory but at a smoother, slightly delayed pace.

The Rise (2021–2024) and the Shift (2025)

From the lows of 2021, where rates hovered near 2%, we witnessed a historic climb. As the Fed battled inflation with aggressive hikes, annuity buyers entered a “Golden Age” of safe accumulation. By late 2024, MYGA rates had more than tripled.

However, the tide is beginning to turn. As we move through 2025, the chart shows the Federal Funds Rate (red line) beginning to drop. While annuity rates (blue line) held strong at their peak for a while, we are now seeing them start to inch downward. The “lag” that worked in your favor on the way up is now signaling that the peak may be behind us.

Experts’ Predictions for Annuity Rates in 2026

Looking ahead to 2026, most reputable financial institutions and the Federal Reserve’s own projections (the “dot plot”) suggest a continued cooling of rates.

What does this mean for you? If the Fed continues to cut rates into 2026, annuity rates will almost certainly follow suit.

  • The Window of Opportunity: If you are holding cash and waiting for rates to rise, you might have missed the highest point. However, you are still in a historically high range.
  • The Risk of Waiting: If the trend keeps going, waiting until 2026 could mean getting a rate that is 1% to 1.5% lower than the rates today.

The Bottom Line: If you see a rate that meets your accumulation goals today, it is generally wiser to lock it in rather than gambling on a market that is trending downward.

Fixed Annuity vs. Bonds vs. CD Comparison

Two tablets with a graph comparing annuity rates vs. Cds.

Bonds, CDs, and fixed annuities are all conservative investments commonly used in the fixed income portion of a portfolio. It just happens that right now fixed annuity rates are higher than CD rates and most bond yields.

A fixed annuity is more of a long-term commitment than bonds or CD and they grow tax-deferred like other retirement accounts. If you would like you can quickly and easily compare the after tax returns for each using our CD vs Fixed Annuity Calculator.

Feature
Fixed Annuity (MYGA)
CDs
Bonds
Safety of Principal
Insurer guarantees; state guaranty association limits (not FDIC)
FDIC insured up to limits
Market/issuer risk; value fluctuates
Rate Type
Guaranteed for the selected term
Fixed for term
Fixed coupon; price varies
Typical Yield
Often higher than comparable CDs
Generally lower than top MYGAs
Varies by duration/credit and market rates
Taxes on Growth
Tax-deferred until withdrawn
Interest taxed annually
Coupon taxed annually (except munis)
Liquidity
Surrender period; typically 10% free withdrawals/yr
Early withdrawal penalties
Tradable; may sell at gain/loss
Income Options
Optional lifetime income (annuitization/riders)
None
Interest income only

Types of Annuity Rates

Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA):  A Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA) offers a fixed interest rate. This rate is guaranteed for the entire length of your contract.

Variable Annuities: Variable annuities provide an opportunity to invest your contributions in various sub-accounts tied to the performance of the stock market. This flexibility allows for potentially higher returns, but it also comes with increased risk.

Single Premium Immediate Annuity: Provides regular income payments soon after the investor purchases the contract. This usually happens within 30 days and always within 13 months.

Traditional Fixed Annuity Rates: Traditional fixed annuity rates do not promise a fixed interest rate for the whole contract. The first year’s rate is specified, and a new rate is set on each anniversary.

Fixed Index Annuity Rates: Fixed index annuity rates combine fixe annuities and variable annuities. They provide the chance for extra earnings based on how a stock market index performs with downside protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens at the end of the 5-year term?

At maturity, you typically have several options: renew into a new term (often with a renewal rate), transfer to another annuity, take a full or partial withdrawal, or annuitize for income. Most carriers provide a 30-day window to choose before defaulting to a renewal or fixed account option per the contract.

Can I access my money early?

Yes, but early withdrawals during the surrender period may incur surrender charges and market value adjustments (if applicable). Many contracts allow up to 10% penalty-free withdrawals annually, and most offer waivers for qualifying events like terminal illness or nursing care—subject to contract terms.

Are annuities taxed differently?

Earnings grow tax-deferred. Withdrawals are generally taxed as ordinary income, and if you’re under 59½, a 10% IRS penalty may apply to taxable amounts. In non-qualified contracts, taxes apply only to the earnings portion; qualified annuities are taxed based on plan rules. Consult a tax professional for your situation.

What if the insurance company fails?

State guaranty associations provide protection up to statutory limits that vary by state and are not a substitute for an insurer’s financial strength. Coverage is not FDIC insurance. Always review carrier ratings and diversification. For specifics, contact your state guaranty association.

How do rates compare to current market conditions?

5-year fixed annuity rates generally move with intermediate-term bond yields and insurer portfolio returns. They may out-yield CDs of similar terms, with tax-deferred growth as an added benefit. Always compare net of surrender terms, liquidity features, and your time horizon.

Trusted Annuity Insight

Jason has distributed more than $1.5 billion in annuities over his 20 year career. His mission is to democratize access to annuities for all Americans and provide a safe and simple way to purchase an annuity.

Fixed MYGA Indexed Income Planning

We regularly update this page and cite primary sources, carrier filings, and regulator guidance:

  1. National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Buyer's Guide for Deferred Annuities
  2. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). Investor Education: Annuities
  3. Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Deposit Insurance: Know Your Risk
  4. Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Publication 575 (2024): Pension and Annuity Income
  5. National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Consumer Resources
  6. Northwestern Mutual. How is an Annuity Taxed?
  7. Bankrate. Did You Inherit an Annuity? Beware of the 5-Year Rule
  8. Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Publication 939 (12/2024): General Rule for Pensions and Annuities
Last updated: • Questions? Call 855-583-1104 or email info@myannuitystore.com.
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🎯 Annuity Buyers Checklist

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Conclusion

Buying an annuity is a smart way to secure guaranteed income, but it requires careful planning and consideration. By following this step-by-step guide and using the checklist, you can confidently choose the right annuity for your retirement needs.

Remember, an annuity is a long-term commitment, so take your time to understand the product, shop around, and consult with professionals to ensure your decision is the right one for your financial future.

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Customer Reviews

Timothy Moloney
Would give 6 stars if possible for the professional service I received from Kiara.She went above and beyond my expectations. Great to know that there still are businesses out there that still pride themselves on customer service.
Chris Lehmann
It has been a complete pleasure to deal with Kiara on several occasions opening new annuities. She has a wonderful personality and most importantly has my best interests in mind. She makes sound and knowledgeable investments.
Brian Robertson
My experience working with My Annuity Store was always very positive. I was able to reach my representative easily and consistently. She was always able to answer my questions and provided clear direction on every step of the process. I am very happy with the outcome and would recommend My Annuity Store to anyone who may be considering an annuity.
Antonette McCaul
Great experience! Excellent customer service!
Paula Ohalloran
I would highly recommend My Annuity Store and Kiara for your annuity investment needs. They are very helpful and knowledgeable.
Doug Nichols
These guys are awesome. As l was buying my annuity rates were going up so I cancelled 2 annuities Kiara had already completed and submitted applications for and bought a third annuity at a higher rate. They were more than happy to do whatever I wanted and always put my needs first. I highly recommend them.
Richard Miles
I worked with Jason and Kiara setting up an annuity. They went over and above expectations. They got me the best deal and were very fast getting all the papers in order via 2 day ups. I will be working with them in the near future. Exellent service! Like

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Important Disclosure:

The rates displayed in this comparison table are for informational purposes only and are subject to change without notice. Actual rates may vary based on individual circumstances, including age, state of residence, premium amount, and product availability. Rates are current as of [DATE] and should be verified at the time of application.

This comparison is not intended as a recommendation or endorsement of any specific insurance company or product. My Annuity Store, Inc. is an independent insurance agency and is not affiliated with or acting as a fiduciary for any insurance carrier listed. We receive compensation from insurance companies for the sale of annuity products in the form of commissions, which may vary by carrier and product.

Annuities are long-term financial products designed for retirement purposes. Early withdrawals may be subject to surrender charges, tax penalties, and other fees. Before purchasing an annuity, carefully review the product prospectus or disclosure documents and consult with a qualified financial or tax professional to determine if an annuity is appropriate for your specific situation.

Past performance and current rates are not guarantees of future results. All guarantees are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.

For questions or to discuss which annuity option may be right for you, contact My Annuity Store at 855-583-1104 or info@myannuitystore.com.

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