Annual Step-Up Death Benefit

Available during accumulation phase only. Upon death of annuitant, benefit will be greater of - 1) contract value; or 2) annual step-up death benefit. Annual Step-Up Death Benefit is equal to highest contract value calculated on any contract anniversary prior to annuitant's 81st birthday; increased by purchase payments and reduced for adjusted withdrawals. Adjusted partial withdrawal = (amount of the gross partial withdrawal * value of the current death benefit proceeds immediately prior to the gross partial withdrawal)/contract value immediately prior to the gross partial withdrawals.