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About Prudential
Prudential Financial is one of the largest financial services companies in the world, with over 150 years of history in retirement income planning. Pruco Life Insurance Company, their annuity subsidiary, is known for innovative registered index-linked annuities (RILAs), competitive fixed indexed annuities, fixed annuities, and variable annuities. They offer a broad product lineup designed for both accumulation and income strategies.
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How we scored them
Income Options86/100
Financial Strength92/100
Fees & Costs80/100
Flexibility88/100
Customer Service85/100
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The tradeoffs
What works
- Strong financial ratings (A from AM Best, AA- from S&P)
- Innovative FlexGuard RILA lineup with flexible mid-term features
- Wide range of product types (fixed, FIA, RILA, variable annuities)
- Competitive income rider options and spousal coverage features
- Brand recognition and 150+ year history in retirement planning
What to watch
- Variable annuity fees can be higher relative to FIA products
- Some products have longer surrender periods (7-10 years)
- Income rider fees on certain products can impact returns (up to 1.45% annually)
- Not all products available in all states (CA, NY, OR limitations on some RILAs)
- Accumulation-focused products lack income rider options on entry-level MYGA line
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Income rider fees
Disclosed charges for optional riders on Pruco Life products, live from Annuity Rate Watch. Product-level detail is on each review.
| Rider | Product | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Surepath Income Benefit | Prudential SurePath Income | 1.00% annually (2.50% max) |
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Best fit for these buyers
Investors wanting innovative RILA products with mid-term flexibility
Retirees seeking protected lifetime income with growth participation
Those who value brand recognition and 150+ year financial history
Ages 50-75 seeking accumulation, income, or hybrid strategies
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Frequently asked questions
Is Prudential a good annuity company?
Prudential earns an average rating of 4.1/5 across the 5 products we've reviewed, and A.M. Best rates the carrier A+ for financial strength. We describe its financial position as "Superior" with $650+ Billion in total assets.
What are the fees for Prudential annuities?
Fee structures vary by product. Optional income riders on Prudential products carry disclosed charges — for example Surepath Income Benefit (Prudential SurePath Income): 1.00% annually (2.50% max). See each product review for the full fee detail.
What is the surrender period for Prudential annuities?
Surrender periods on Prudential's current lineup run 5–10 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.