[california dreamer]

thanks. lots of good information on those sites as to the different kinds of annuities. ok, so we know the sales pitch for annuities and to check for commissions, fees.
my question is, for having a fixed account and not being able to touch the account for at least 8 yrs due to IRS age penalties for early withdrawal, are annuities the way to go? or some other deferred account plan available out there? muni bonds, something like that, that would pay more than 1-2%????
we are adamant that it be a fixed account and principal cannot be touched.
Thank You!