Our Professional Opinion on Equitable Annuities
Equitable is a good insurance company, but we do not like many of its annuities. Its life insurance companies have an A (Excellent) financial strength rating from AM Best. The ratings are under review with developing implications because of a proposed merger; that is not a downgrade.
Our biggest problem is Equitable’s reliance on registered index-linked annuities, or RILAs. We think RILAs are stupid. Why take the risk of losing retirement savings in a market downturn while accepting limits on how much you can earn? A buffer may absorb part of a loss, but it is not the same as protecting your account from negative index credits.
Some of Equitable’s variable annuities add another layer of complications with investment expenses, contract charges, and income benefits that can be difficult to understand. A large income benefit base can look great on paper, but the number that matters is the guaranteed paycheck you will actually receive and what happens to your money when you start taking it.
If you want market growth, we would rather compare direct investments. If you want to protect retirement savings or create lifetime income, we would start by comparing fixed annuities and fixed indexed annuities from financially strong companies. Equitable does offer a fixed annuity, but the rate and features still need to compete.
Contact The Annuity Expert for a free comparison. You can find links to our individual Equitable annuity reviews below.
What to know: Annuity rates don’t move in sync across products; some improve while others lag, depending on insurer strategy.
How Long Has Equitable Financial Been Around?
Equitable Financial has been operating since 1859, making it one of the oldest life insurance and annuity providers in the United States. Originally known as AXA Equitable, it rebranded to Equitable in 2020. With over 160 years in the business, the company has deep roots and a long history of managing long-term financial products.
Financial Ratings & Company Strength
These ratings show that Equitable has strong claims-paying ability, a long operating history, and above-average financial standing—key factors when purchasing long-term insurance or income guarantees.
Our Equitable Annuity Reviews
- Equitable Guaranteed Growth Strategies
- Equitable Investment Edge Variable Annuity
- Equitable Retirement Cornerstone
- Equitable Structured Capital Strategies Income
- Equitable Structured Capital Strategies PLUS and Premier
What Products Does Equitable Financial Offer?
- Term Life Insurance – Basic, time-limited life insurance coverage.
- Permanent Life Insurance – Includes whole life and indexed universal life (IUL), designed to provide lifelong coverage and build cash value.
- Variable Life Insurance – Offers investment options with higher risk and reward potential.
- Fixed and Variable Annuities – Designed for long-term growth or lifetime income.
- Indexed Annuities – Tied to market performance with downside protection.
- Retirement Plans – 403(b), 401(k), and IRAs tailored to individual and group retirement needs.
- Investment Advisory Services – Through affiliated firms and advisors.
These products target long-term financial security, combining insurance protection with growth or income features.
Compare Equitable Life Insurance Quotes With 25+ Companies
Why Comparing Premium Rates, Interest Rates, and Income Payouts Matters
When purchasing life insurance or annuities, never assume the first offer is the best. Rates and income guarantees can vary significantly between carriers—even among reputable companies like Equitable.
- Premium Rates: Premiums can be higher than competitors’, especially for permanent life insurance. Always compare costs for the same coverage amount and policy type.
- Interest Rates on Annuities: Equitable’s fixed and indexed annuity rates may not always be the most competitive. Review declared fixed rates, cap rates, and participation rates against other carriers.
- Income Payouts: Lifetime income options (such as GLWBs) vary by provider. The amount of guaranteed monthly income you receive in retirement depends on the annuity contract terms. Comparing payout rates can increase your retirement income by thousands over time.
You can fund Equitable annuities using qualified accounts (like IRAs, 401(k) rollovers, and 403(b)s) or non-qualified money (like after-tax savings or brokerage assets).
Compare Annuity Income
Pros and Cons of Equitable Financial
Pros:
- 160+ Years of Experience: Long-standing financial strength and experience.
- Diverse Product Options: Especially strong in employer-sponsored retirement plans and variable life insurance.
- Customizable Annuity Options: Including indexed, variable, and lifetime income riders.
Cons:
- Customer Service Complaints: Reports of poor service responsiveness.
- Higher Fees: Variable life and annuities can come with layered fees and complex structures.
- Overemphasis on Investment-Linked Products: Many policies shift risk to the customer.
Compared to other companies, Equitable may lack the simplicity and transparent pricing found with competitors that specialize in lower-cost fixed annuities or no-load life insurance.
Who Needs Equitable Financial and Who Doesn’t
You May Need Equitable If:
- You’re a schoolteacher or nonprofit employee looking for a 403(b) provider.
- You want life insurance with investment options (like VUL or IUL).
- You prefer brand recognition and a long-standing financial institution.
You May Not Need Equitable If:
- You want simple, low-fee life insurance or annuities with guaranteed interest rates.
- You prioritize responsive, personalized service from a smaller or more nimble carrier.
- You want maximum retirement income and are comparing annuity income quotes across multiple companies.
Other Insurance Options to Consider
- Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs): These allow you to grow money safely with no market losses and offer guaranteed income for life through a Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit (GLWB). Most also offer up to 10% liquidity each year, even during the surrender period. If your goal is predictable, long-term income with control over your funds, an FIA may be better than a variable or complex annuity.
- Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities (MYGAs): Think of these as CDs issued by life insurance companies. They provide a guaranteed interest rate for a set period (3–10 years). They’re ideal for conservative savers and retirees.
- Life Insurance with Long-Term Care Benefits: Instead of traditional long-term care insurance, consider hybrid policies that offer chronic illness or LTC riders. They allow you to use your death benefit while you’re still alive if you need care.
Annuities Can Help Fill Gaps Left by Equitable Products
If Equitable’s income payouts, rates, or contract terms aren’t competitive, a fixed indexed annuity or MYGA from another carrier may provide stronger guarantees, higher growth potential, or simpler liquidity features. For example, some FIAs provide income that increases over time to help keep up with inflation—something not always offered by Equitable.
Final Word
Equitable Financial is a credible, long-established insurance provider with broad product offerings. But reputation alone doesn’t guarantee the best deal. Compare premium costs, growth rates, and income payouts before you buy. The same coverage or income stream might cost less—or pay you more—when sourced through another company.
Contact The Annuity Expert for personalized quotes and guidance from a licensed broker. We’ll help you compare rates, review income options, and find the product that offers the most value for your situation.
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