Unrated — no longer offered by My Annuity Store
In November 2024, AM Best downgraded Upstream Life to C++ (Marginal) and then withdrew its rating at the company’s request, leaving Upstream Life effectively unrated (this followed an August 2024 Texas Department of Insurance consent order). My Annuity Store no longer offers Upstream Life annuities. This page remains for reference only. Always verify a carrier’s current status at ambest.com.
Consider instead: Athene, MassMutual Ascend, or compare current A-rated options on our live rate table.
Upstream Life Insurance Company is a Louisiana-domiciled fixed annuity carrier that has built a presence in the independent agent marketplace through competitive MYGA rates. While Upstream Life is smaller and less recognized than national carriers, it previously attracted rate-focused buyers willing to consider B-range carriers in exchange for higher guaranteed yields.
This review covers Upstream Life’s financial profile, product offerings, and how it fits into a diversified annuity strategy.
Upstream Life at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Legal Name | Upstream Life Insurance Company |
| Headquarters | Baton Rouge, Louisiana |
| AM Best Rating | Unrated – AM Best downgraded to C++ (Marginal), then withdrew the rating at the company’s request (Nov 2024) |
| Primary Products | Fixed annuities, MYGAs |
| Distribution | Independent agent channel |
| States Available | Select states, verify availability for your state |
| Minimum Premium | $5,000 (most products) |
| Guaranty Protection | State guaranty association coverage applies; limits vary by state (see NOLHGA.com) |
Upstream Life’s Financial Strength and Background
Upstream Life Insurance Company operates as a specialty fixed annuity carrier focused on the MYGA distribution channel. As a Louisiana-domiciled carrier, it is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Insurance. State guaranty associations provide backstop protection up to state-specific limits; see NOLHGA.com for details.
In November 2024, AM Best downgraded Upstream Life to C++ (Marginal) and then withdrew its rating at the company’s request, leaving Upstream Life effectively unrated. Buyers should verify the current rating directly at www.ambest.com before any transaction, as ratings can change.
Following the loss of its AM Best rating, My Annuity Store no longer offers Upstream Life for new annuity contracts. This page remains for reference only.
What Types of Annuities Does Upstream Life Offer?
Upstream Life’s product lineup is focused on the fixed annuity and MYGA space:
- Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities (MYGAs), Fixed guaranteed rates locked in for the full contract term, typically available in 3, 5, and 7-year terms. No market exposure, predictable growth.
- Traditional Fixed Annuities, Annual reset products where the declared rate may change each year within a guaranteed minimum floor.
No rate data found for this carrier at this time.
Upstream Life MYGA contracts typically include standard provisions: up to 10% free annual withdrawal after year one, a return-of-premium death benefit, and a guaranteed minimum interest rate floor for the contract term.
Who Is Upstream Life Best For?
- Reference only: AM Best withdrew Upstream Life’s rating in November 2024; My Annuity Store no longer offers it for new annuity contracts.
Upstream Life is not appropriate for buyers who require A-rated minimum financial strength, or for anyone allocating more than $250,000 to a single B-range carrier. Compare Upstream Life against top-rated MYGA carriers using our live rate table to see whether the yield premium justifies the rating trade-off for your situation.
Upstream Life Pros and Cons
Here is a balanced look at Upstream Life’s strengths and limitations for annuity buyers:
Pros
- May offer competitive rates to attract new business
- Offers MYGA products with guaranteed rates and predictable returns
- Available through independent agents, allowing side-by-side comparisons with other carriers
Cons
- Below A-range AM Best rating, which many independent agents consider the minimum for new annuity purchases
- Product availability varies by state, so not all products may be offered where you live
- Surrender charges apply during the contract term, which limits liquidity
Frequently Asked Questions About Upstream Life
Is Upstream Life a safe company for annuities?
AM Best downgraded Upstream Life to C++ (Marginal) and then withdrew its rating in November 2024 at the company’s request, leaving it effectively unrated – which is why My Annuity Store no longer offers it. State guaranty associations provide backstop protection up to state-specific limits (see NOLHGA.com); that coverage is a safety net, not a substitute for carrier strength.
What types of annuities does Upstream Life offer?
Upstream Life offers MYGAs through independent agents and financial professionals. Product availability, rates, and features vary by state. Use our rate comparison tool to see what’s currently available from Upstream Life and competing carriers.
How do I buy an annuity from Upstream Life?
Upstream Life annuities are sold through licensed insurance agents. My Annuity Store is an independent platform that can quote Upstream Life alongside 20+ other carriers so you can compare rates, terms, and financial strength ratings in one place. Request a free quote or call 855-583-1104 to get started.
Contact Upstream Life Insurance Company
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Website | www.upstreamlife.com |
| Customer Service | Contact via independent agent or company website |
| Domicile | Baton Rouge, Louisiana |
Working with My Annuity Store: We compare Upstream Life against 20+ competing carriers, including A-rated alternatives, so you can make an informed decision. Request a free comparison or call 855-583-1104.
Other Annuity Companies to Consider
Comparing carriers is an important part of finding the right annuity. Each company offers different rate guarantees, financial strength ratings, and product features. Here are a few other carriers worth reviewing:
- Nationwide Annuity Review
- American Equity Annuity Review
- Jackson National Life Annuity Review
- Northwestern Mutual Annuity Review
- Browse All Annuity Insurance Companies
Want help choosing? Use our live rate comparison tool to see which carriers offer the best rates today, or request a personalized quote.
