Optimum Selection Annuity
Corebridge Financial
15%
Free W/D
13
States
American Pathway Fixed 5 and Fixed 7 annuities are single-premium fixed annuities that provide guaranteed interest earnings, tax-deferred growth, and protection from market volatility. They're designed for retirees and near-retirees seeking predictable income and principal protection.
Free Withdrawal
15%/yr
Available In
13 states
Min Premium
$25,000
Surrender
7 years
Key Features
Guaranteed Fixed Interest Rates
Varies by term (1, 3, 5, or 7 years); subject to change before contract issuancePrincipal and interest earn a guaranteed fixed rate that does not fluctuate with market conditions. Interest is credited daily to achieve an annual yield equal to the declared rate.
Tax-Deferred Growth
No annual tax on earnings during accumulation phaseAll interest and earnings compound without current federal income tax liability until you withdraw funds, allowing faster accumulation than taxable accounts.
Penalty-Free Withdrawals
15% annually, up to 20% with carryoverAfter 30 days from contract date, withdraw up to 15% of the previous anniversary contract value each year without surrender charges. Unused portion (up to 5%) can carry over to next year for 20% annual access.
Decreasing Surrender Charges
Fixed 5: 9%-0% over 5 years; Fixed 7: 9%-0% over 7 yearsWithdrawals exceeding penalty-free amounts incur declining surrender charges during the initial rate guarantee period, declining to zero after 5 or 7 years.
Market Value Adjustment Option
Higher initial rate in exchange for potential MVA on excess withdrawalsOptional higher interest rate available on 5-year and 7-year terms. Excess withdrawals during the guarantee period are adjusted based on current interest rates—potentially increasing or decreasing the withdrawal amount.
Return-of-Premium Guarantee
Slightly reduces initial interest rateOptional rider ensures you receive at least your original premium upon cancellation, minus prior withdrawals, even if contract value is lower.
Death Benefit
100% of contract value without surrender chargesSpecified beneficiary receives the greater of the annuity value or minimum withdrawal value, without withdrawal charges or MVA, avoiding probate.
Lifetime Income Options
Multiple payout structures availableUpon annuitization, choose from life-only, life with guaranteed period, fixed-period, or fixed-amount payout options for guaranteed lifetime or term-certain income.
Withdrawal Charge Waivers
Available in most statesNo surrender charge for qualified withdrawals due to extended care, terminal illness, or inability to perform activities of daily living. No charge for these riders.
Low Minimums and Wide Age Range
$2,000-$5,000 minimum; ages 18-90Minimum premium of $5,000 (after-tax) or $2,000 (pre-tax). Available to ages 18-90, allowing broader access to fixed annuity benefits.
Highlights
Guaranteed fixed interest rates with no market volatility risk to your principal
Tax-deferred growth allowing earnings to compound without annual tax burden
Flexible access with up to 15% penalty-free withdrawals each year plus carryover option
Multiple customization options including 5 or 7-year terms with optional market value adjustment for higher rates
Guaranteed lifetime income options available through annuitization
Surrender Schedule
Yr 1
8%
Yr 2
8%
Yr 3
7%
Yr 4
6%
Yr 5
5%
Yr 6
4%
Yr 7
3%
After
0%
Nursing home waiver, RMD waiver, Terminal illness waiver
Best For
Conservative investors near or in retirement who prioritize principal protection, guaranteed income, and tax-deferred growth over market participation and liquidity.
Consider Alternatives If
Investors needing immediate full access to funds, those in high tax brackets who can benefit from tax-loss harvesting, or those with long time horizons who can tolerate market volatility for growth potential.
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