Our Research Methodology

Where our information comes from

Carrier product guides, disclosure statements, rate sheets and state filings for product details; the rating agencies for financial strength; the IRS, the Social Security Administration and state insurance departments for rules and taxes; and named industry publishers for statistics.

How we evaluate insurance companies

We lead with the independent financial strength ratings, then weigh ownership, history, products and fit. The full method is on how we rate annuity companies.

How we build "best" lists

Our best-of lists group products by the job they do, like growth, income or short-term safety. Within each, we look at the strength of the company, the guarantee, surrender terms, fees and flexibility. A product only makes a list if we would be comfortable explaining its weaknesses to you.

How we write product reviews

Every review covers the same points in the same order so contracts are easy to compare. The full checklist is on how we review annuity products.

Our independence

We are paid by insurance companies when a client buys, never by you and never to publish. Commissions play no part in what we write. See our editorial policy.

Updates and corrections

Company and product pages are reviewed at least twice a year and whenever something material changes. Found an error? Tell us and we will verify and fix it.