Annuities are financial products that provide a steady stream of income over a specified period of time. They are typically offered by insurance companies, which act as the guarantors of annuities. Insurance companies are responsible for ensuring that the annuity payments are made to the annuitant as promised. In the event that the insurance company becomes insolvent or is unable to fulfill its obligations, there are state guaranty associations in place to provide a safety net for annuity holders. These associations are established by state laws and are designed to protect policyholders in the event of an insurance company's failure. Each state has its own guaranty association, and the coverage limits may vary. It's important to note that the guarantees provided by insurance companies and state guaranty associations are subject to certain limitations and conditions, so it's always a good idea to carefully review the terms and conditions of an annuity contract before making a purchase.