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About Nationwide
Nationwide is one of the largest and most diversified insurance and financial services companies in the world. Their annuity division offers a comprehensive range of products including variable, fixed, and indexed annuities. With nearly a century of experience, Nationwide combines financial strength with product innovation.
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How we scored them
Income Options88/100
Financial Strength95/100
Fees & Costs82/100
Flexibility90/100
Customer Service88/100
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The tradeoffs
What works
- Superior financial strength ratings
- Wide range of annuity types (variable, fixed, indexed)
- Strong brand recognition and trust
- Robust online tools and account management
- Nationwide network of financial advisors
What to watch
- Variable annuity fees can be higher than average
- Some products have complex structures
- Fixed rates not always the most competitive
- Minimum investments can be higher
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Income rider fees
Disclosed charges for optional riders on Nationwide products, live from Annuity Rate Watch. Product-level detail is on each review.
| Rider | Product | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Peak 10 Bonus Income+ Rider | Nationwide Peak 10 | 1.00% annually (1.20% max) |
| High Point Select Enhanced Death Benefit | Nationwide New Heights Select 12 | 0.50% |
| High Point Select Enhanced Death Benefit with Purchase Payment Bonus | Nationwide New Heights Select 12 | 0.95% |
| NHS 10 High Point 365 Lifetime Income Benefit Rider | Nationwide New Heights Select 12 | 0.95% annually |
| NHS 12 High Point 365 Lifetime Income Benefit Rider | Nationwide New Heights Select 12 | 0.95% annually |
| NHS 8 High Point 365 Lifetime Income Benefit Rider | Nationwide New Heights Select 8 | 0.95% annually |
| NHS 9 High Point 365 Lifetime Income Benefit Rider | Nationwide New Heights Select 9 | 0.95% annually |
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Best fit for these buyers
Investors wanting a well-known, trusted brand
Those seeking variable annuity options
Retirees who value advisor access
Ages 50-70 with diversified retirement needs
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Frequently asked questions
Is Nationwide a good annuity company?
Nationwide earns an average rating of 4.0/5 across the 19 products we've reviewed, and A.M. Best rates the carrier A+ for financial strength. We describe its financial position as "Superior" with $280+ Billion in total assets.
What are the fees for Nationwide annuities?
Fee structures vary by product. Optional income riders on Nationwide products carry disclosed charges — for example Peak 10 Bonus Income+ Rider (Nationwide Peak 10): 1.00% annually (1.20% max); High Point Select Enhanced Death Benefit (Nationwide New Heights Select 12): 0.50% ; High Point Select Enhanced Death Benefit with Purchase Payment Bonus (Nationwide New Heights Select 12): 0.95% . See each product review for the full fee detail.
What is the surrender period for Nationwide annuities?
Surrender periods on Nationwide's current lineup run 3–12 years, depending on the product. Most products allow an annual free-withdrawal amount before charges apply — the product table above shows each product's surrender length, and each review covers the exact schedule.