Top 20 Life/Annuity Insurance Companies by Direct Premiums Written in 2025
Top 20 Life/Annuity Insurance Companies by Direct Premiums Written in 2025: Top 20 Life/Annuity Insurance Companies by Direct Premiums Written in 2025, the life and annuity insurance industry continues to play a crucial role in the financial security and long-term planning strategies of millions of individuals and families across the United States. As we navigate through 2025, this sector is not only growing in value but also evolving in complexity. With aging populations, fluctuating market conditions, and increased demand for retirement-focused solutions, insurers are being pushed to innovate, diversify, and refine their product offerings.
In this competitive landscape, direct premiums written serve as a reliable metric for gauging the performance, reach, and consumer trust in insurance providers. Direct premiums reflect the total amount of new and renewal business generated before reinsurance arrangements—making it a clear indicator of a company’s success in the marketplace.
The following list ranks the top 20 writers of life and annuity insurance in 2025 by the volume of direct premiums written. These companies represent a blend of long-established giants and rising players who have demonstrated strong financial performance, customer loyalty, and robust risk management.
Examining rates and features of the best annuity companies of 2025
Their success is not only rooted in scale but also in their ability to adapt to a shifting regulatory environment, increased digitization, and the evolving expectations of policyholders.
Understanding which insurers lead the market offers valuable insights for investors, regulators, agents, and consumers alike. It highlights who is setting the standard in product innovation, service delivery, and long-term financial strength.
1. MetLife Inc.
MetLife continues to dominate the life and annuity insurance market, leveraging its extensive group benefits programs to offer lifetime income products. With a strong presence in workplace retirement plans, MetLife’s focus on stability and customer satisfaction has solidified its top position. Forbes
2. Equitable Holdings
Equitable Holdings has maintained a significant market share, offering a range of life insurance and annuity products. Their commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions has contributed to their continued success in the industry.III+1III+1
3. Athene Holding Ltd.
Athene has emerged as a leader in the annuities sector, with substantial growth in recent years. Their diverse product offerings, including fixed and indexed annuities, cater to a broad spectrum of retirement planning needs. III+2Lyricschords+2S&P Global+2
4. Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. (MassMutual)
MassMutual’s robust portfolio of annuity products and strong financial ratings have positioned them as a key player in the industry. Their emphasis on customer service and financial strength continues to attract a loyal client base. Lyricschords
5. New York Life Insurance Group
New York Life’s reputation for financial stability and a wide range of annuity products has secured their place among the top insurers. Their focus on guaranteed income solutions resonates with customers seeking long-term financial security. Lyricschords
6. Prudential Financial Inc.
Prudential offers a comprehensive suite of life insurance and annuity products, emphasizing retirement planning and wealth transfer solutions. Their commitment to innovation and customer education supports their strong market presence.III
7. Nationwide
Nationwide’s diverse product offerings and commitment to customer service have contributed to their significant share in the life and annuity market. Their focus on personalized financial solutions appeals to a broad customer base.
8. Western & Southern Financial Group
Western & Southern Financial Group has demonstrated consistent growth through strategic product development and a focus on financial strength. Their annuity offerings cater to various retirement planning needs.III+1InvestmentNews+1Forbes
9. Corebridge Financial
Formerly part of AIG, Corebridge Financial has established itself as a prominent provider of annuities and life insurance products. Their emphasis on retirement solutions and wealth management has driven their market growth. Wikipedia+1III+1
10. Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Company
Great-West Life continues to expand its footprint in the annuity market, offering a range of retirement income products tailored to individual needs. Their commitment to customer service and financial stability underpins their success.
11. Lincoln National Corporation
Lincoln National provides a variety of life insurance and annuity products, focusing on retirement income planning and wealth protection. Their innovative solutions and financial strength appeal to a diverse clientele.
12. Pacific Life
Pacific Life’s comprehensive annuity offerings and strong financial ratings have solidified their position in the market. Their focus on customer-centric solutions supports their continued growth.
13. Jackson National Life Insurance Company
Jackson National specializes in retirement income products, particularly fixed and variable annuities. Their emphasis on financial education and advisor support contributes to their market presence.
14. Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America
Allianz Life offers a range of annuity products, including fixed index and registered index-linked annuities. Their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction drives their success. Lyricschords
15. Brighthouse Financial
Spun off from MetLife, Brighthouse Financial focuses on annuity and life insurance products designed for retirement planning. Their product offerings cater to individuals seeking long-term financial security.Forbes+1III+1
16. Sammons Financial Group
Sammons Financial Group provides a variety of life insurance and annuity products, emphasizing financial strength and customer service. Their offerings support diverse retirement planning strategies.Lyricschords
17. Protective Life Corporation
Protective Life offers a broad range of life insurance and annuity products, focusing on affordability and flexibility to meet customer needs. Their commitment to financial strength supports their market position.
18. Transamerica
Transamerica provides life insurance and annuity products aimed at helping customers achieve financial security. Their focus on innovation and customer education enhances their market appeal.
19. Principal Financial Group
Principal Financial Group offers a suite of retirement and insurance products, emphasizing personalized solutions and financial wellness. Their commitment to customer success drives their growth.
20. American International Group (AIG)
AIG continues to be a significant player in the life and annuity insurance market, offering a range of products designed to meet diverse financial needs. Their global presence and financial expertise support their enduring success.
Conclusion
Top 20 Life/Annuity Insurance Companies by Direct Premiums Written in 2025, as we conclude this examination of the top 20 writers of life and annuity insurance by direct premiums written in 2025, one thing is abundantly clear: the industry is being shaped by a unique blend of tradition, transformation, and technology. The companies that have secured their positions on this list are not merely those with the largest portfolios, but those that continue to demonstrate strategic foresight, operational efficiency, and a deep understanding of consumer needs.
In an environment where financial uncertainty and retirement preparedness remain top-of-mind for many Americans, life and annuity insurance products are more than just financial tools—they are foundational elements of a secure future. The insurers leading the market in direct premiums are responding to this reality with personalized offerings, digital engagement platforms, and a focus on transparency and value.
Furthermore, regulatory pressures, inflationary trends, and the demand for ESG-aligned investments are compelling insurers to innovate not just in product design but in their core business models. The top performers are those that strike the right balance between risk and reward while fostering lasting relationships with policyholders.
Looking ahead, these companies are expected to remain at the forefront of the industry, guiding consumers through increasingly complex financial landscapes and helping them achieve long-term stability. Whether you’re a policyholder, stakeholder, or industry analyst, watching how these firms evolve will offer a powerful window into the future of life and annuity insurance.