Is the carrier strong enough? Check its ratings

Rating agencies give opinions on an issuing insurer's financial strength. Check the legal issuer, agency, rating date and outlook. Ratings can change.

1. 1.

   Ask for the ratings of the carriers behind your products. This is free.

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   Using Annuities Genius: show me the ratings of [carrier 1] and [carrier 2]. I want AM Best, S&P, Fitch, Moody's and Comdex. Only look them up, with no quote.

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2. 2.

   Read the ratings. AM Best grades start at A++, the top grade. Not every carrier has all five.

   A gap means no rating on file. A rating shows strength, not whether the product fits.

3. 3.

   Set a minimum only if you want one, for example A. Then ask for a quote, which spends credits.

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   Using Annuities Genius: quote a MYGA (a fixed-rate annuity) for my client. She is 65, lives in Texas and has $100,000 in a Traditional IRA, a retirement account. Show only carriers rated [your minimum] or better by AM Best.

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   Each carrier shown should be at your minimum or better.