Basic Death Benefit

Available during accumulation phase. Upon death of annuitant, Benefit is greatest of 1) contract value; 2) net purchase payments adjusted for withdrawals; or 3) stepped-up death benefit amount if the contract has been in effect for at least 3 years. For 3-year period beginning on third contract anniversary, stepped-up death benefit will be the greater of - i) Contract Value as of the third anniversary or ii) net purchase payments adjusted for withdrawals made on or before third anniversary. At the beginning of each later 3-year period prior to annuitant age 90, the stepped up Death Benefit will be the greater of - 1) Contract Value on that date or 2) the death benefit as of the last day of the preceding 3-year period adjusted for withdrawals. During Income phase, Death benefit is equal to contract value.