There is risk that this segment interim value could be less than the original premium payment even if the applicable Index has been performing positively. The buffer or floor rate provides limited protection. There is a possibility of a significant amount of loss of the total premium payment, credited interest and prior earnings. In the index-linked segment options it is possible that the total loss could be 100%. If clients choose to allocate amounts to an index-linked segment option subject to a cap rate, that rate limits the positive index change, if any, that may be credited to the annuity for a given segment term. The participation rate limits the positive index change, if any, that may be credited to the annuity for a given segment term. It is possible to receive less than the full protection of the buffer rate or floor rate. Once a segment lock-in is executed, it is irrevocable for that segment term. A lock-in will not be applied retroactively and can only be exercised for the entire segment option. A segment lock-in may only be exercised once per segment term for each index-linked segment option. There is no guarantee that any particular segment option or index will be available during the entire period., Annuities are a contract you purchase from an insurance company. They allow you to convert a portion of your retirement savings into a guaranteed stream of retirement income. Many retirees’ goal is to maintain—or even enhance—the standard of living they’re used to in retirement, annuities may be a part of a strategy. There are many types of annuities—including fixed, income, variable , In comprehensive retirement planning, pay attention to these focus areas: Tax Planning Annuities provide retirement income, but distributions are rarely, if ever, tax-free. Withdrawals are treated like taxable income. Financial advisors suggest coordinating distributions from multiple investment vehicles to optimize tax exposure..