What is Athene MaxRate?
Athene MaxRate is a multi-year guarantee fixed annuity. Athene describes an interest rate guaranteed for the initial premium over the selected term. Additional premiums follow a separately renewed annual rate. Ask which contract version is available to you; the initial guarantee does not describe every dollar or every future year. Athene product resources.
Put these answers next to the rate
| Decision | Ask for this in writing |
|---|---|
| Rate guarantee | Exact product, term, premium, state, offer date and guarantee period. |
| Access | Free-withdrawal provision, withdrawal charges and any applicable market value adjustment. |
| End of the term | How interest crediting changes after the term and what access is available at that point. |
| Existing contract | Current surrender value, benefits you would give up and the complete replacement comparison. |
The April 2026 MaxRate brochure describes three-, five- and seven-year terms. At the selected term’s end, the multi-year strategy value moves into the one-year fixed strategy; the full accumulated value becomes available without a withdrawal charge or market value adjustment. That does not promise the original interest rate forever. Turning the contract into scheduled income is a separate choice on the contract’s Annuity Date. Ask for both dates and the proposed payout election. Athene MaxRate consumer brochure.
Growth first, income now, or more access?
Write down what this money needs to do before choosing a contract. If you need payments soon, ask for an income comparison. If you are saving for later, compare the rate guarantee against how long you can leave the money committed. If you may need substantial cash soon, make that the first question.
An annuity is an insurance contract, and its guarantees depend on the issuing insurer’s financial strength and claims-paying ability. An early exit can involve charges and taxes. Replacing an existing annuity can mean paying an old surrender charge and starting a new surrender period. The comparison should explain what you gain and what you give up. Investor.gov explains annuity costs and exchanges.
For other Athene product categories, see our Athene annuity comparison. This MaxRate page focuses on a fixed-rate product family; it does not replace that broader guide.
Bring the offer you are considering
Use the inquiry above to tell us your state, the approximate amount, whether the money is in an IRA or another account, and when you might need it. If you already have a quote or contract, have it available for the conversation. Product access depends on current producer appointment, training, state availability and suitability. First Freedom Life is an independent insurance brokerage, separate from Athene.
Athene MaxRate questions
What is the current Athene MaxRate rate?
This page does not publish a rate. Request the current carrier-approved offer for your state, premium and chosen term, including its effective date. Confirm which premium receives that guarantee and what happens after the term. An older rate screenshot is not a current offer.
Is MaxRate a fixed indexed annuity?
Athene lists MaxRate among its fixed annuities. It is a different product choice from an annuity that credits interest using an index formula. Compare the specific contract rather than assuming all Athene products work the same way.
Can I withdraw money before the term ends?
The April 2026 brochure links the annual free-withdrawal allowance to the multi-year fixed strategy rate and accumulated value at the most recent contract anniversary. An applicable RMD counts as part of that allowance; do not simply add another free withdrawal to it. Request the carrier’s calculation before withdrawing. Excess withdrawals can face charges and a market value adjustment, with possible loss of principal.
Does putting IRA money in an annuity create extra tax deferral?
No. A traditional IRA already provides tax deferral. An annuity inside it should be evaluated for its contract benefits, limitations and costs rather than an additional tax-deferral benefit. Review your funding method and any required distributions with a qualified tax professional.