LIMRA: U.S. Annuity Sales Top $107 Billion in First Quarter 2026
6/11/2026
WINDSOR, Conn., June 11, 2026 — Total U.S. annuity sales were $107.4 billion in the first quarter of 2026, a 1% increase from the same period in 2025, according to results from LIMRA’s U.S. Individual Annuity Sales Survey, representing 84% of the total U.S. annuity market.
“While economic conditions remain uncertain, consumers continue to prioritize financial protection and guaranteed income solutions as they prepare for retirement,” said Bryan Hodgens, senior vice president and head of LIMRA research. “As investors navigate shifting market conditions and questions around the future path of interest rates, we expect demand for annuity products to remain elevated through 2026.”
Traditional Variable Annuities
First quarter traditional variable annuity (VA) sales increased year over year—building on stronger momentum seen in the second half of 2025. In the first quarter of 2026, traditional VA sales rose 17% to $17.2 billion, compared with first quarter 2025 results.
Registered Index-Linked Annuities
Registered index-linked annuity (RILA) sales continued to outpace traditional variable annuity sales growth in the first quarter of 2026. RILA sales increased 20% year over year to $21.1 billion.
“RILA products continue to resonate with clients and financial professionals. The ability to offer significant protected growth with the potential for guaranteed income is a strong value proposition.” said Keith Golembiewski, assistant vice president and head of LIMRA Annuity Research.
Fixed-Rate Deferred
Total fixed-rate deferred annuity (FRD) sales were $35.6 billion in the first quarter, down 12% from first quarter 2025 sales. Despite the decline, FRD annuities remained a significant contributor to total annuity sales.
“FRD rates continue to be higher than historical norms. There are many older clients looking for peace of mind and the ability to outpace inflation,” said Golembiewski.
Fixed Indexed Annuities
Fixed indexed annuity (FIA) sales totaled $26.8 billion in the first quarter of 2026, 4% lower than prior year results.
“The slight decline in FIA sales could be attributed to a drop in cap rates along with some cannibalization from RILA sales,” added Golembiewski.
Income Annuities
Income annuity sales increased in the first quarter as demand for protection continued to drive consumer interest. Single premium immediate annuity (SPIA) sales reached $3.7 billion, a 22% increase from prior year results, while deferred income annuity (DIA) sales totaled $950 million, up 5% year over year.
With more than 100 years of expertise, LIMRA conducts over 80 benchmark studies — producing nearly 500 reports annually — for our members and the industry as a whole. These studies provide trusted insights and a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics, trends, and behaviors.
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