New York Life Insurance Company, New York, has announced that it is ranked as the number one provider of guaranteed lifetime income annuities in the country according to an industry source.

"As sources of reliable retirement income such as corporate pensions decline and the average number of years spent in retirement expands, consumers are increasingly looking for ways to stretch their nest egg to ensure they have enough savings to last throughout retirement," said Paul Pasteris, senior vice president of New York Life. "Lifetime income annuities can help make this possible by providing a stable, guaranteed stream of retirement income together with immeasurable peace of mind. New York Life has focused on helping consumers build lifetime income annuities into their retirement plan by providing flexible, innovative products that address their needs and concerns. Our number one ranking is evidence that this approach is resonating with the public."

New York Life's guaranteed lifetime income annuity sales rose 45% in 2006 on the strength of its innovative product suite and strong distribution, and continued on that pace in first quarter 2007. Over the past two years, the company has introduced a number of new guaranteed lifetime income annuity options designed to address various consumer needs. In addition to the flexible cash access features that are part of all New York Life income annuity products, these offerings include an Income Enhancement Option that lets consumers take advantage of rising interest rates and a Changing Needs Option that allows policyholders to increase or decrease monthly payments to suit their unique preferences.