About American Equity
American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company is one of the largest issuers of fixed indexed annuities in the United States. With over 25 years of experience, they specialize in providing retirement solutions that offer both growth potential and downside protection. Their IncomeShield product line is particularly popular among retirees seeking guaranteed lifetime income.
The tradeoffs
What works
- Largest FIA issuer in the US by premium
- IncomeShield series offers competitive payouts
- Multiple index crediting strategies available
- Strong track record of rate competitiveness
- 10% annual free withdrawal provision
What to watch
- AM Best rating slightly lower than top competitors
- Limited MYGA product offerings
- Some products have complex fee structures
- Surrender periods up to 10 years
Income rider fees
Disclosed charges for optional riders on American Equity products, live from Annuity Rate Watch. Product-level detail is on each review.
| Rider | Product | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Enhanced Bonus and Liquidity | American Equity AssetShield BONUS 10 | 0.95% |
| IncomeShield CA LIBR Option 2 - 8.25% Rollup | California IncomeShield 7 | 1.10% annually |
| IncomeShield CA LIBR Option 3 - 6.50% Rollup | California IncomeShield 7 | 1.10% annually |
| IncomeShield LIBR Option 2 - 8.25% Rollup | California IncomeShield 7 | 1.10% annually |
| IncomeShield LIBR Option 3 - 6.50% Rollup | California IncomeShield 7 | 1.10% annually |
| IncomeShield LIBR Option 4 - 8.25% Rollup & Wellbeing Rider | California IncomeShield 7 | 1.20% annually |
| IncomeShield LIBR Option 5 - 6.50% Rollup & Wellbeing Rider | California IncomeShield 7 | 1.20% annually |
| CA IncomeShield 9 LIBR Option 1 | California IncomeShield 9 | 1.10% annually |
+6 more riders listed on individual product pages.
Best fit for these buyers
Investors seeking indexed annuity growth
Retirees wanting guaranteed lifetime income
Those comfortable with 10-year commitment
Ages 50-70 in accumulation or income phase
Frequently asked questions
Is American Equity a good annuity company?
We have reviewed 3 American Equity products, and A.M. Best rates the carrier A for financial strength. We describe its financial position as "Strong" with $70+ Billion in total assets.
What are the fees for American Equity annuities?
Fee structures vary by product. Optional income riders on American Equity products carry disclosed charges, for example Enhanced Bonus and Liquidity (American Equity AssetShield BONUS 10): 0.95% ; IncomeShield CA LIBR Option 2 - 8.25% Rollup (California IncomeShield 7): 1.10% annually ; IncomeShield CA LIBR Option 3 - 6.50% Rollup (California IncomeShield 7): 1.10% annually . See each product review for the full fee detail.
What is the surrender period for American Equity annuities?
Surrender periods on American Equity's current lineup run 3–10 years, depending on the product. Most products allow an annual free-withdrawal amount before charges apply. The product table above shows each product's surrender length, and each review covers the exact schedule.