Growth & Income Protector Benefit - Death Benefit Enhancement

Available during accumulation phase. Upon death of annuitant, on contract date, benefit base is equal to initial purchase payment made. Prior to first withdrawal, benefit base is greater of - 1) contract value increased by purchase payment made, accumulated at the rate of 3% annually, or 2) highest contract value calculated on any contract anniversary; until earliest of - a) 10th contract anniversary, b) annuitant's age 80, or c) first withdrawal. On first withdrawal, benefit base is greatest of - 1) contract value, 2) contract value increased by purchase payment made, accumulated at the rate of 3% annually, or 3) highest contract value calculated on any contract anniversary; until earliest of - a) 10th contract anniversary, b) annuitant's age 80, or c) first withdrawal. Owner may elect to step-up benefit base equal to contract value on any contract anniversary after 5th contract anniversary or most recent step-up date. If withdrawals are not excess withdrawals Issuer will reduce benefit base by dollar amount; if withdrawals are excess withdrawal, benefit base will be reduced by dollar amount for portion of withdrawal not defined as an excess withdrawal and in same proportion by excess withdrawal.