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American Equity Annuity Review (2026)

Jason Caudill, MBA
Updated April 11, 2026 | 4 min read

American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company has been one of the top fixed index annuity providers in the United States since 1995, with an A- (Excellent) rating from AM Best and over $75 billion in assets. Now part of Brookfield Reinsurance, American Equity is known for its income-focused FIA products, competitive crediting strategies, and a distribution model built around independent insurance agents and financial advisors.

This review covers American Equity’s financial strength, MYGA and FIA product lineup with live rates, and contact information.

American Equity at a Glance

Detail Information
Full Legal Name American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company
Parent Company Brookfield Reinsurance Ltd.
Headquarters West Des Moines, Iowa
Founded 1995
AM Best Rating A- (Excellent)
S&P Rating BBB+ (Good)
Total Assets $75+ billion
Products Offered Fixed Index Annuities, MYGAs
States Available All 50 states + D.C.
Minimum Premium $10,000 (most products)

American Equity’s Financial Strength

American Equity carries an A- (Excellent) from AM Best. While A- is one notch below the A held by carriers like Athene and Corebridge, it remains within AM Best’s “Excellent” tier. The company’s $75+ billion in assets reflect its standing as a top-5 FIA issuer nationally.

In 2023, Brookfield Reinsurance completed its acquisition of American Equity, bringing Brookfield’s institutional investment management capabilities to the carrier’s balance sheet. For clients primarily focused on FIA income products, American Equity’s track record and product design remain strong selling points regardless of the ownership change.

What Types of Annuities Does American Equity Offer?

  • Fixed Index Annuities (FIAs), American Equity’s AssetShield, IncomeShield, and FlexShield products are among the most widely distributed FIA products in the country, offering index-linked growth with optional income riders.
  • Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities (MYGAs), American Equity offers fixed rate annuity products for clients seeking simple guaranteed accumulation.

American Equity MYGA Products and Current Rates

Live rates from AnnuityRateWatch · Rates updated May 13, 2026

Product Term Rate (APY) Min Premium Last Rate Change
GuaranteeShield 3
AM Best A
3 Years 3.75% $100,000+ Nov 12, 2025 View Details →
GuaranteeShield 3
AM Best A
3 Years 3.75% $250,000+ Nov 12, 2025 View Details →
GuaranteeShield 3
AM Best A
3 Years 3.5% $10,000+ Nov 12, 2025 View Details →
GuaranteeShield 5
AM Best A
5 Years 3.75% $100,000+ Nov 12, 2025 View Details →
GuaranteeShield 5
AM Best A
5 Years 3.75% $250,000+ Nov 12, 2025 View Details →
GuaranteeShield 5
AM Best A
5 Years 3.5% $10,000+ Nov 12, 2025 View Details →

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

American Equity Fixed Index Annuity Products

AssetShield

American Equity’s flagship accumulation-focused FIA, offering multiple index crediting strategies with a guaranteed zero floor. Designed for clients who want to build value over time without the risk of market losses. Multiple term options available through independent agents.

IncomeShield

An income-focused FIA with an integrated guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit. Provides index growth potential alongside a guaranteed income floor that clients cannot outlive. A popular choice for clients 5–15 years from retirement who want to build guaranteed income.

American Equity Retirement Gold Annuity

An FIA with a premium bonus and enhanced income rider structure. Designed for clients who want upfront accumulation incentives alongside long-term income guarantees. Download the Retirement Gold brochure (PDF).

Who Is American Equity Best For?

  • FIA income buyers who want a carrier with decades of FIA-specific expertise and some of the most broadly distributed income rider products in the market.
  • Clients comparing FIA income riders, American Equity’s IncomeShield and similar products are frequently in the top tier for guaranteed income per dollar of premium in side-by-side comparisons.
  • Agents and advisors who have built client relationships around American Equity products and want to continue with a trusted, well-distributed platform.
  • Rate-sensitive MYGA buyers who also want to compare FIA options from the same carrier in a single quote.

Contact American Equity

Contact Method Details
Website www.americanequity.com
Customer Service 1-888-221-1234
Mailing Address American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company
6000 Westown Pkwy
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Hours Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. CT

Compare American Equity Against Other FIA Carriers: My Annuity Store compares American Equity alongside Allianz, Nationwide, North American, and 20+ other carriers. Get a free comparison quote or call 855-583-1104.

Related: FIA Sales Leaders: Complete Indexed Annuity Market Data (2015-2025)

Related: FIA Sales Leaders: Complete Indexed Annuity Market Data (2015-2025)

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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.
Live Data · Updated Daily

Featured Retirement Savings Products for May 13, 2026

3-Year MYGA Rates Top 3 carriers
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Term: 3 yr Min: $10,000 Withdrawal: 0% AM Best B++
5.65% Guaranteed APY
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Rates updated: May 13, 2026, 3:51 pm ET · Source: AnnuityRateWatch. Rates shown are for informational purposes only and subject to change without notice. Products marked SI use simple interest, effective compound yield is lower than the stated rate. Minimum premiums shown are for non-qualified (after-tax) funds. Always verify current rates with a licensed annuity professional before purchasing.

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Term: 5 yr Min: $10,000 Withdrawal: 0% AM Best B++
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Term: 5 yr Min: $100,000 Withdrawal: 0% AM Best A-
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Term: 5 yr Min: $100,000 Withdrawal: 0% AM Best A-
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Rates updated: May 13, 2026, 3:51 pm ET · Source: AnnuityRateWatch. Rates shown are for informational purposes only and subject to change without notice. Products marked SI use simple interest, effective compound yield is lower than the stated rate. Minimum premiums shown are for non-qualified (after-tax) funds. Always verify current rates with a licensed annuity professional before purchasing.

7-Year MYGA Rates Top 3 carriers
Knighthead Life Best Rate
Staysail 7 (Simple Interest) SI
Term: 7 yr Min: $100,000 Withdrawal: 0% AM Best A-
6.50% Guaranteed APY
Knighthead Life
Staysail 7 CA (Simple Interest) SI
Term: 7 yr Min: $100,000 Withdrawal: 0% AM Best A-
6.40% Guaranteed APY
American Gulf
Anchor MYGA 7
Term: 7 yr Min: $10,000 Withdrawal: 0% AM Best B++
6.30% Guaranteed APY

Rates updated: May 13, 2026, 3:51 pm ET · Source: AnnuityRateWatch. Rates shown are for informational purposes only and subject to change without notice. Products marked SI use simple interest, effective compound yield is lower than the stated rate. Minimum premiums shown are for non-qualified (after-tax) funds. Always verify current rates with a licensed annuity professional before purchasing.

5-Year MYGA Rates Top 3 carriers
Protective Life Best Rate
Secure Saver 5
Term: 5 yr Min: $75,000 Withdrawal: 10% AM Best A+
5.25% Guaranteed APY
Athene IA
Athene Max Rate 5
Term: 5 yr Min: $100,000 Withdrawal: Interest Only AM Best A+
5.20% Guaranteed APY
Nationwide Life Insurance Company
Secure Growth 5 MVA
Term: 5 yr Min: $100,000 Withdrawal: 10% AM Best A+
5.20% Guaranteed APY

Rates updated: May 13, 2026, 3:51 pm ET · Source: AnnuityRateWatch. Rates shown are for informational purposes only and subject to change without notice. Products marked SI use simple interest, effective compound yield is lower than the stated rate. Minimum premiums shown are for non-qualified (after-tax) funds. Always verify current rates with a licensed annuity professional before purchasing.

Rates sourced from AnnuityRateWatch. A-rated carriers (AM Best A− or better) only. Not a solicitation. Rates vary by state and deposit size. Verify current rates before purchasing.

Jason Caudill, MBA
Written by
Jason Caudill, MBA

Jason Caudill, MBA is the founder of My Annuity Store and has spent over 20 years helping clients protect retirement savings with annuities from top annuity companies. He is an independent licensed insurance agent, not affiliated with any single carrier, which means you always get unbiased guidance.

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