Where to Buy Annuities: A Complete Guide to Your Options Annuities are only issued by , but you can purchase them through several different channels. Choosing where to buy is just as important as choosing the product itself, as the channel can affect the fees you pay and the range of options available to you. 1. Insurance Companies (Direct or Captive Agents)

Top-rated companies include New York Life (rated A++ for financial strength) and Allianz Life (a leader in fixed index annuities). MassMutual and Nationwide also offer robust direct options.

Your local bank likely has a partnership with one or more insurance carriers to sell annuities to their customers.