Updated 2026-03-30
Merrill vs Prudential 401(k) Comparison
Compare Merrill Lynch (#8, 8.0/10) and Prudential Financial (#12, 7.4/10) side by side across fees, ratings, features, and investment options.
Overall Comparison
| Feature | Merrill | Prudential |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 8.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
| Rank | #8 | #12 |
| AUM | $3.0 trillion | $1.4 trillion |
| Participants | 5 million | 5 million |
| Plan Sponsors | 2,500+ | 25,000+ |
| Founded | 1914 | 1875 |
Ratings Comparison
| Category | Merrill | Prudential |
|---|---|---|
| Fees & Costs | 3.3/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Investment Options | 4.5/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.1/5 | 3.9/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.2/5 | 3.6/5 |
Fee Comparison
| Fee Type | Merrill | Prudential |
|---|---|---|
| Admin Fees | Varies by plan size | $1,000 - $4,000/year |
| Expense Ratios | 0.03% - 1.5% | 0.20% - 1.1% |
| Trading Fees | $0 - $6.95 | Plan dependent |
| Advisory Fees | 0.45% - 1.5% | 0.40% - 0.90% |
Merrill Strengths
- Bank of America Preferred Rewards benefits
- Strong advisory and guidance services
- complete financial planning
- Wide investment selection
Prudential Strengths
- Strong guaranteed income options
- complete financial wellness programs
- Insurance product integration
- Long track record and stability
Rollover, Loans & Withdrawals
| Feature | Merrill | Prudential |
|---|---|---|
| Rollover Platform | Benefits OnLine | Prudential via Empower |
| Loans Available | Yes | Yes |
| Withdrawal Methods | Online via Benefits OnLine, Phone (888-968-4015), Bank of America branches | Online via Empower platform, Phone (877-778-2100) |
| Distribution Options | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Rollover to IRA | Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Guaranteed lifetime income (IncomeFlex), Rollover to IRA |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Merrill if you want:
- BofA customers
- Advice seekers
- Large employers
- Full-service needs
Choose Prudential if you want:
- Guaranteed income seekers
- Large employers
- Insurance-focused planning
Our Verdict: Merrill vs Prudential
Merrill Lynch wins this comparison with a score of 8.0/10 vs 7.4/10. Merrill excels with bank of america preferred rewards benefits, making it the stronger choice for most investors in this matchup. However, the best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, employer plan availability, and investment preferences.
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Merrill vs Prudential: Complete 401(k) Comparison for 2026
Choosing between Merrill Lynch and Prudential Financial for your 401(k) is an important decision that affects your retirement savings. Merrill offers bofa integration while Prudential is known for guaranteed income. In terms of fees, Merrill charges 0.03% - 1.5% expense ratios compared to Prudential's 0.20% - 1.1%. Merrill manages $3.0 trillion in assets and serves 5 million participants, while Prudential has $1.4 trillion AUM and 5 million participants.
Key Differences: Merrill vs Prudential
When comparing Merrill and Prudential, consider their core strengths: Merrill excels with bank of america preferred rewards benefits, while Prudential stands out for strong guaranteed income options. Both providers offer a wide range of investment options including target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Merrill's customer service rating is 4.1/5 compared to Prudential's 3.9/5. For mobile experience, Merrill scores 4.2/5 while Prudential scores 3.6/5.
Which Provider is Right for You?
Choose Merrill if you prioritize bofa customers. Choose Prudential if you're looking for guaranteed income seekers. Your decision should also consider your employer's plan availability, fee sensitivity, desired investment options, and customer service expectations. For detailed reviews, visit our individual Merrill and Prudential provider pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Merrill Lynch scores higher in our 2026 rankings with 8.0/10. Merrill is best for bofa customers, while Prudential is best for guaranteed income seekers. The right choice depends on your employer's plan and your priorities.
Merrill charges expense ratios of 0.03% - 1.5% with admin fees of Varies by plan size. Prudential charges 0.20% - 1.1% expense ratios with admin fees of $1,000 - $4,000/year. Merrill's fees rating is 3.3/5 compared to Prudential's 3.5/5.
Yes, you can roll over between Merrill and Prudential. Merrill uses Benefits OnLine for rollovers, while Prudential uses Prudential via Empower. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact your new provider to initiate the transfer.
Merrill offers 401(k) loans. Prudential offers 401(k) loans. Both providers typically allow loans up to 50% of your vested balance or $50,000, whichever is less.
Merrill scores 4.5/5 for investment options, while Prudential scores 3.7/5. Both offer target-date funds, index funds, and managed accounts. Merrill's investment options include Mutual Funds, ETFs, Stocks. Prudential offers Mutual Funds, Target Date Funds, Guaranteed Income.
For small businesses, consider plan minimums and per-participant costs. Merrill is best for bofa customers, advice seekers, large employers, full-service needs. Prudential is best for guaranteed income seekers, large employers, insurance-focused planning. Compare admin fees: Merrill charges Varies by plan size vs Prudential's $1,000 - $4,000/year.
Pavlo Pyskunov
Managing Director & Investment Fund Director
Pavlo Pyskunov analyzes employer-sponsored retirement plans using IRS publications and DOL Form 5500 filings, helping workers maximize their 401(k) savings through data-driven guidance.
Last updated: 2026-03-30