What a 401(k) match is really worth
The return on your first retirement contribution is hard to beat. Here is the math.
David KrugHead of ContentDavid KrugHead of ContentLife & Retirement
Retirement is less about one number and more about a series of decisions.
Top picks for 2026Independently ranked
01
Allianz LifeIndexed growth strategies
9.102
Pacific LifeCustomizable riders
9.103
APMEXCustodian choice
8.9See all 10 rankings Editor's take
By David Krug, Head of ContentThe short answer on life & retirement.
Retirement is less about one number and more about a series of decisions. We compared 135 options on value, features, ease of use, support and reputation. Allianz Life leads the 2026 ranking for indexed growth strategies. Pacific Life is the strongest alternative for customizable riders.
Start with the ranking, then read the full review of the provider that fits your priorities. Every score is weighted, dated and reviewed before publication.
Where are you in the retirement plan?
Choose the path that matches your decision. We will take you to the shortlist, the review or the guide that answers it.
01
Choose an account
Browse accounts · 4 02Start with the tax treatment, then compare providers.
Compare providers
Compare IRAs 03See fees, minimums and the withdrawal rules.
Plan withdrawals
Read the guides 04The account is only useful if the income plan works.
Check the fees
See the algorithm Small fee differences compound over a retirement.
Browse every ranking
Grouped by the decision, so you can go straight to the right shortlist.
Gold
4 rankings
17 Best Gold IRA Companies of 2026
APMEX: Custodian choice
8.9Rave score
Read the ranking
12 Best Gold IRA Companies for Beginners in 2026
Preserve Gold: Beginners
8.9Rave score
Read the ranking
12 Best Gold IRA Companies for Rollovers in 2026
American Bullion: IRA rollovers
8.9Rave score
Read the ranking12 Best Gold IRA Companies for Seniors in 2026
APMEX: Custodian choice
8.9Rave score
Read the rankingIRAs
4 rankings
17 Best IRA Providers of 2026
Vanguard: Low-cost index investing
8.7Rave score
Read the ranking
12 Best IRA Providers for Beginners in 2026
Charles Schwab: Research and support for new investors
8.7Rave score
Read the ranking12 Best IRA Providers for Low Fees in 2026
Vanguard: Low-cost index investing
8.7Rave score
Read the ranking12 Best IRA Providers for Self-Employed in 2026
Vanguard: Low-cost index investing
8.7Rave score
Read the rankingAnnuities
2 rankingsFrom shortlist to sign-up, in four steps.
01
Build the shortlist
Start with Annuity Companies and the top three picks.
Open the ranking 02Compare the trade-offs
Use the comparison table to weigh price, terms and the features you will actually use.
Compare the options 03Read the full review
Read the full Allianz Life review before you rely on the score alone.
Read a review 04Check the fine print
Confirm the current price, contract, cancellation terms and eligibility at the source.
See the methodReviews
Full reviews of the providers we track in this section.
9.1Best overall
8.4Best for Lifetime income stability
6.9Best for Fixed annuity rates
5.2Best for Customizable riders
4.8Best for Conservative, safety-first buyers
4.7Best for Inflation protection
Guides
Practical advice for the decisions in this section.
David KrugHead of Content