Fixed-Rate Deferred Annuity Sales Jump to $44.7B in Q2 2026
Fixed-Rate Deferred Annuity Sales Jump to $44.7B in Q2 2026
MYGA-style fixed-rate deferred annuity sales rose 26% quarter over quarter, a signal that savers are locking in guaranteed rates rather than waiting.
A demand signal, not just a rate story
Fixed-rate deferred annuities, commonly sold as MYGAs (multi-year guaranteed annuities), brought in $44.7 billion in sales during the second quarter of 2026. That is a 26% increase from the first quarter (LIMRA, 2026). The jump came inside LIMRA's broader report of a record $123.9 billion in total U.S. annuity sales for the quarter, the industry's 11th consecutive quarter above $100 billion.
Fixed-rate deferred annuities pay a set interest rate for a defined term, then usually convert to a lower renewal rate unless the contract is renewed or moved. The appeal is simple: the rate is locked in on day one, with no market exposure and no guesswork about where rates go next. See current MYGA rate levels for September 2026 for the numbers behind that decision.
Rate environments shift. The safest approach is not chasing the highest number, but understanding the term length, the surrender schedule, and the renewal rate before signing anything. A fixed-rate deferred annuity is a contract, not a bank account. Early withdrawals before the surrender period ends can carry a penalty.
- The rate is locked for the full contract term, then typically renews lower.
- Principal and stated rate are backed by the issuing carrier's financial strength.
- Withdrawing before the surrender period ends can trigger a penalty.
- Terms and availability vary by carrier and state.
Why savers are locking in now
A 26% jump in one quarter is a demand signal. Rates on top MYGA products have stayed near 15-year highs through most of 2026.
Savers who have watched top MYGA rates hold near 15-year highs, and worried they might not last, appear to be moving before that changes. This is different from earlier 2026 coverage that focused purely on the rate spread between MYGAs and bank CDs.
This quarter's sales data shows people are not just comparing rate sheets. They are acting on the comparison. The behavior shift shows up in the sales numbers, not just the rate charts.
Fixed-rate annuities vs. bonds and CDs
The mechanics differ even though all three offer some form of fixed, predictable return.
Locked rate, insurance contract
Pays a guaranteed rate for a set term with tax-deferred growth. Principal and rate are backed by the issuing carrier. See how the spread compares in MYGA vs. CD: Which Pays More in Retirement?
Different guarantees, different risks
MYGA rates have consistently outpaced average bank CD rates by several points through 2026. Bonds carry interest rate risk if sold before maturity; a MYGA held to term does not. None of this makes a fixed-rate annuity superior for every saver. It means more people are weighing the tradeoff and choosing the guarantee.
Common questions
1What is a fixed-rate deferred annuity?▾
2Why did fixed-rate deferred annuity sales jump 26% in Q2 2026?▾
3Is a MYGA the same as a CD?▾
4Can I lose money in a fixed-rate deferred annuity?▾
5How long is a typical MYGA term?▾
6Where can I compare current fixed-rate deferred annuity rates?▾
See where fixed rates stand today
Compare current MYGA rates and connect with a vetted advisor to see how a fixed-rate annuity fits your plan.
Compare Annuity Rates →This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Annuity products vary by carrier and state. Consult a licensed financial professional before making any financial decisions. AnnuitiesHQ.com does not sell annuities or provide investment advice.