About Variable Annuities

Think of a variable annuity as a long-term retirement strategy that can help your money grow faster today, and make it last longer when you retire. Your money has the opportunity to grow faster because you don't pay taxes on earnings until you actually withdraw them. Every dollar you earn is put to work for you. Keep in mind, as with all variable annuities, your withdrawals may be included in your taxable income, and prior to age 59 1/2 may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty.

With a variable annuity, you determine which investment options are most appropriate for you. Your money is then invested in professionally managed portfolios. Your variable annuity's value will vary over time, according to the performance of the investment options you choose.

At retirement, a variable annuity can also help your money last longer. If you choose to annuitize your contract, you can receive a steady stream of income. This income stream can be guaranteed for a certain period of time, for your life and the life of your spouse, or for a combination of the two. Income that you cannot outlive is a valuable benefit that variable annuities provide.

Variable annuities are complex investment vehicles. Before you invest, be sure to ask your financial professional about the variable annuity's features, benefits, risks and fees, and whether the variable annuity is appropriate for you, based on your financial situation and objective.

Variable products: Not FDIC insured. No financial institution guarantee. May lose value.