What You Need to Know Before Buying
Company Background and Reliability
- Founded: 2014 (Empower brand), with parent company Great-West Lifeco tracing back to 1891
- Years in Business: 11 years (as of 2026) under the Empower brand; 134 years of legacy experience through Great-West
- Headquarters: Greenwood Village, Colorado
- Company Overview: Empower Annuity Insurance Company (formerly Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Company of America) operates under Empower, one of the largest retirement service providers in the United States. It specializes in annuities and retirement solutions distributed through financial professionals and institutions.
- Why It Matters: Empower offers the strength of a global parent company combined with the modern branding and innovation of one of the largest U.S. retirement plan providers.
Financial Strength and Ratings (2026)
- A.M. Best: A+ (Superior)
- S&P: AA
- Moody’s: Aa3
- Fitch: AA
- Comdex Score: 95
- Why It Matters: Empower Annuity Insurance Company holds top-tier financial ratings across all major agencies. Its high Comdex ranking places it among the most financially secure and reliable annuity issuers in the industry.
Fixed Annuity Interest Rates
Empower is a leader in retirement services, but when moving to a fixed contract, comparing their rates with current fixed annuity rates from other insurers can yield significant long-term growth differences.
Fixed Income Payout Rates
These are the highest fixed income payout rates for November 2026 among all annuity companies. Since lifetime income payouts vary significantly from one company to another, you’ll want to compare Empower’s payout options with other insurers to make sure you’re getting the highest guaranteed income for life. The same deposit amount can generate very different results depending on the company chosen.
How to Compare Empower with Other Companies
- Scale and Stability: Empower’s large size and strong financial backing make it highly secure.
- Product Variety: Offers MYGAs, fixed indexed annuities, and income solutions—compare riders and features for best fit.
- Liquidity Terms: Understand surrender schedules and free withdrawal provisions before committing.
- Independent Review: Even with top ratings, always compare Empower against other top-tier carriers to ensure the best balance of safety, growth, and payouts.
Why Use an Independent Annuity Broker
- Empower only shows its own products if you go direct.
- An independent broker compares Empower with dozens of insurers.
- This ensures you get the best mix of financial safety and competitive rates.
- Broker services are free to you—commissions are paid by insurance companies.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Get a Quote: Review Empower’s annuity rates alongside competitors.
- Select a Product: Choose between fixed growth or lifetime income.
- Submit an Application: Provide your personal and beneficiary details.
- Funding Options: Use non-qualified funds, IRAs, Roth IRAs, or 401(k) rollovers.
- Contract Issuance: Once approved and funded, your annuity starts earning interest or paying income.
Other Insurance to Consider
- Life Insurance: Protects loved ones and can restore lost funds if you annuitize.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: Covers nursing home or in-home care costs.
- Disability Insurance: Secures income for working individuals before retirement.
Final Advice
Empower Annuity Insurance Company combines the legacy of Great-West with modern branding and top-tier financial strength. Its strong ratings and large scale make it one of the most reliable providers available. Still, it’s essential to compare Empower’s rates with other highly rated carriers to secure the best outcomes for your retirement.
Why Choose The Annuity Expert
- Our service is free of charge, with no obligation.
- Access the largest selection of annuity products in the United States.
- Advisors guide you through every step for a stress-free experience.
Contact The Annuity Expert today for free quotes. We’ll help you find the highest fixed annuity interest rates to grow your savings or the strongest guaranteed income payouts for retirement.
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