# EDGAR Filing Document

**Accession Number:** 0000723258
**File Stem:** 0001193125-23-076528
**Filing Date:** 2023-3
**Character Count:** 838487
**Document Hash:** 1fe0fe22715a6d8271e42b1e50a0233e
**Contains OCR:** False
**Source Format:** 

## Filing Content

## Filing Summary
**0001193125-23-076528.hdr.sgml**: 20230626

**ACCESSION NUMBER**: 0001193125-23-076528

**CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE**: S-1

**PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT**: 48

**FILED AS OF DATE**: 20230322

**DATE AS OF CHANGE**: 20230501

**FILER**: 

**COMPANY DATA:**
- **COMPANY CONFORMED NAME:** MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE INSURANCE CO
- **CENTRAL INDEX KEY:** 0000723258
- **STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION:** LIFE INSURANCE [6311]
- **IRS NUMBER:** 131935920
- **STATE OF INCORPORATION:** OH
- **FISCAL YEAR END:** 1231

**FILING VALUES:**
- **FORM TYPE:** S-1
- **SEC ACT:** 1933 Act
- **SEC FILE NUMBER:** 333-270740
- **FILM NUMBER:** 23752484

**BUSINESS ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 191 ROSA PARKS STREET
- **CITY:** CINCINNATI
- **STATE:** OH
- **ZIP:** 45202
- **BUSINESS PHONE:** 513-361-9462

**MAIL ADDRESS:**
- **STREET 1:** 191 ROSA PARKS STREET
- **CITY:** CINCINNATI
- **STATE:** OH
- **ZIP:** 45202

**FORMER COMPANY:**
- **FORMER CONFORMED NAME:** GREAT AMERICAN LIFE INSURANCE CO
- **DATE OF NAME CHANGE:** 19830712

##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 22, 2023** 

**Registration No. 333-[ ]** 

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**UNITED STATES** 

**SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION** 

**Washington, D.C. 20549** 

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**FORM S-1** 

**REGISTRATION STATEMENT** 

***UNDER***

***THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933***

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![LOGO](g473116g0316062340619.jpg)

## MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company
**(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Ohio** | **6311** | **13-1935920** |
| **(State or other jurisdiction of**<br> **incorporation or organization)** | **(Primary Standard Industrial**<br> **Classification Code Number)** | **(I.R.S. Employer**<br> **Identification Number)** |

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**191 Rosa Parks Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202** 

**(513) 361-9000** 

**(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of registrant's principal executive offices)** 

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**John P. Gruber** 

**MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company** 

**191 Rosa Parks Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202** 

**(513) 361-9000** 

**(Name and Address of Agent of Service)** 

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**Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public:** As soon as practicable after this registration statement becomes effective.

If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, check the following box. ☑

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Large accelerated filer | ☐ | Accelerated filer | ☐ |
| Non-accelerated filer | ☑ | Smaller reporting company | ☐ |
|  |  | Emerging growth company | ☐ |

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**The Registrant hereby amends this registration statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this registration statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the registration statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.** 

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY** 

Administrative Office: P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati OH 45201-5423

Street Address: 191 Rosa Parks Street, Cincinnati OH 45202

Policy Administration: 1-800-789-6771

**INDEX FRONTIER<sup>®</sup> 7 ANNUITY** 

**PROSPECTUS Dated [ ], 2023** 

The Index Frontier**<sup>®</sup>** 7 annuity is an Individual Index-linked Modified Single Premium Deferred Annuity (the "Contract") issued by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company<sup>®</sup> ("MassMutual Ascend Life," "we" or "us"). It provides that we will pay annuity payout benefits to you in exchange for your purchase payments. The Contract offers you the opportunity to allocate funds to indexed strategies for one-year periods (a "Term") and a declared rate strategy (together with the indexed strategies, the "Crediting Strategies"). Indexed strategies provide returns based, in part, on the change in the value of a market index or the share price of an exchange-traded fund (an "Index"). The returns of an Index do not include reinvestment of any dividends.

**The Contract is a modified single premium deferred annuity. This means we will accept Purchase Payments only during the purchase payment period, which ends two months after the Contract Effective Date.** 

A glossary of defined terms used herein can be found in the Special Terms section starting on page 5 of this prospectus.

The Contract currently offers four Conserve Strategies, four Growth Strategies, and one Buffer Strategy.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Conserve/0% Floor Strategies** | **Index** | **Maximum Loss/Floor of 0% Per Term** |
| S&P 500 0% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| SPDR Gold Shares 0% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares U.S. Real Estate 0% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares MSCI EAFE 0% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| **Growth/-10% Floor Strategies** | **Index** | **Maximum Loss/Floor of 10% Per Term** |
| S&P 500 -10% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| SPDR Gold Shares -10% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares U.S. Real Estate -10% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares MSCI EAFE -10% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| **10% Buffer Strategy** | **Index** | **End of Term Buffer of 10% Per Term** |
| S&P 500 10% Buffer | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Buffer Strategy, at the end of the Term you can lose up to 90% of that money due to a negative change in the Index. At the end of the Term, 10% of the money you allocated is protected from loss. You can lose more than 90% of that money if you withdraw it before the end of the Term. |

---

At the end of a Term, we may stop offering any particular Indexed Strategy, but we will always offer at least one Indexed Strategy. Consequently, any Indexed Strategy listed above may not be available after the end of the initial Term. Indexed Strategies that may be available in the future may earn a return that is lower than the return your investments would have earned if they had been invested in the other Indexed Strategies listed above. In addition, if we reduce the available number of Index Strategies to just one Indexed Strategy, your ability to increase your Account Value could be significantly reduced.

In general, we will set a higher Maximum Gain for a Growth Strategy than the Maximum Gain for a Conserve Strategy that uses the same Index, and we will set a higher Maximum Gain for the Buffer Strategy than for the Growth Strategy that uses the same Index.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of an indexed strategy will increase if there is a positive change in the applicable Index value during
a Term. Any increase during a Term is subject to an upper limit called the Maximum Gain. At least 10 days before a Term starts, we will post the Maximum Gain that will apply to an Indexed Strategy for that Term on our website. We can change the
Maximum Gain for each new Term of an indexed strategy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Before the end of a Term, any increase in the value of an indexed strategy is also subject to a vesting factor.
The vesting factor limits the portion of the positive change in the Index that we take into account when we calculate the increase in the strategy value. The vesting factor varies depending on the day of the Term. It is 25% for any date within the
first half of a Term, 50% for any date within the second half of a Term, and 100% at the end of a Term.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy will not decrease even if there is a negative change in the applicable
Index value during a Term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy will decrease if there is a
negative change in the applicable Index value during a Term. Any decrease during a Term for a Growth Strategy is subject to a lower limit called the Maximum Loss. The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Growth Strategy is 10%. **Each Growth Strategy includes a risk of potential loss of up to 10% of principal and any prior earnings each Term**.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a 10% Buffer Strategy will decrease if there is a negative change in the applicable Index Value that
is larger than the Buffer during a Term. The Buffer is the portion of a negative Index Change for a Term that is disregarded when calculating Buffer Strategy losses. The Buffer varies depending on the day of the Term. The Buffer at the end of a Term
is 10%. Before the end of the Term, the Buffer is calculated daily as a prorated share of the annual 10% Buffer. **Each Buffer Strategy includes a risk of potential loss of principal and any prior earnings. At maximum, the Buffer protects 10% of principal and any prior earnings from loss each Term.** 

<u>Note: The S&P 500 Buffer strategy is not available for Contracts issued prior to May 2020.</u> 

The Contract also offers a declared rate strategy, which earns interest during a Term at a fixed rate we set before that Term begins. The fixed interest rate varies from Term to Term, but will never be less than 1%. <u>Note: The declared rate strategy is not available for Contracts issued in Missouri.</u>

**The Contract is intended for long-term investment purposes and may not be appropriate for investors who plan to take withdrawals (including systematic withdrawals and required minimum distributions) during the first seven Contract Years.** An early withdrawal charge may apply if you take a withdrawal or Surrender the Contract during the first seven Contract Years. That charge will reduce strategy values, including the value of a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy. The early withdrawal charge is 8% for withdrawals and Surrenders of the Contract in the first Contract Year, and falls each Contract Year during the seven-year period. Withdrawals and Surrenders may also be subject to income tax, and withdrawals and Surrenders before age 59<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub> may also be subject to an additional 10% penalty tax.

**Risk Factors for this Contract appear on pages 12-16 and pages A6-A10.** Indexed annuity contracts are complex insurance and investment vehicles. You should speak with a financial advisor about the Index Frontier 7 and its features, benefits, risks, and fees, and whether the Contract is appropriate for you based upon your financial situation and objectives.

Please read this prospectus before investing and keep it for future reference. It contains important information about your annuity and MassMutual Ascend Life that you ought to know before investing. It describes all material rights and obligations under the Contract including material state variations.

**\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*** 

**NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**•** **The Contract is not insured by the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) or the NCUSIF (National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund).** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**•** **Although the Contract may be sold through relationships with banks or other financial institutions, the Contract is not a deposit or obligation of, or guaranteed by, such institutions or any federal regulatory agency.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**•** **The Contract is a security. It involves investment risk and may lose value. There is a risk of loss of principal under the Contract and that loss can become greater due to Early Withdrawal Charges.** 

**All guarantees under the Contract are the obligations of MassMutual Ascend Life and are subject to the credit worthiness and claims-paying ability of MassMutual Ascend Life.** 

The Contract doesn't invest in any equity, debt or other investments. If you buy this Contract, you aren't investing directly in an Index, the stocks included in an Index, or the underlying investments or other assets held by an Index.

The "S&P 500 Index" is a product of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC or its affiliates ("SPDJI") and has been licensed for use by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company. S&P<sup>®</sup>, S&P 500<sup>®</sup>, US 500, The 500, iBoxx<sup>®</sup>, iTraxx<sup>®</sup> and CDX<sup>®</sup> are trademarks of S&P Global, Inc. or its affiliates ("S&P"); Dow Jones<sup>®</sup> is a registered trademark of Dow Jones Trademark Holdings LLC ("Dow Jones"); MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company's Products is not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by SPDJI, Dow Jones, S&P, their respective affiliates, and none of such parties make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in such product(s) nor do they have any liability for any errors, omissions, or interruptions of the S&P 500 Index.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
The iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF and the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC. iShares<sup>®</sup>, BLACKROCK<sup>®</sup>, and the corresponding logos are registered and unregistered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates ("BlackRock"), and these trademarks have been licensed for certain purposes by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company. MassMutual Ascend Life annuity products are not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by BlackRock, and purchasers of an annuity from MassMutual Ascend Life do not acquire any interest in the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF or the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF nor enter into any relationship of any kind with BlackRock. BlackRock makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, to the owners of any MassMutual Ascend Life annuity product or any member of the public regarding the advisability of purchasing an annuity, nor does it have any liability for any errors, omissions, interruptions or use of the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF or the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF or any data related thereto.

**\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*** 

The principal underwriter of the Contract is MM Ascend Life Investor Services, LLC. The offering of the Contract is intended to be continuous. The underwriter will use its best efforts to sell the Contract.

This prospectus is not an offering in any state, country, or jurisdiction in which we are not authorized to sell the Contract.

If you purchase a Contract, you may cancel it within 20 days after you receive it. If you purchase a Contract to replace an existing annuity contract or insurance policy, you have 30 days to cancel the Contract. The right to cancel period may be longer in some states. In many states, you will bear the risk of investment gain or loss before cancellation. The right to cancel is described more fully in the Right to Cancel section of this prospectus.

Our form number for the Contract is P1822317NW. Our form numbers for the strategy endorsements to the Contract are E1322417NW, E1322517NW, E1322617NW, E1322717NW, E1322817NW, E1322917NW, E1323017NW, E1829620NW, E1829720NW, and E1829820NW. The form numbers may vary by state. The Securities and Exchange Commission file number for the Contract is 333-[ ].

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Table of Contents** 

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  [INDEX FRONTIER**<sup>®</sup>** 7 ANNUITY INFORMATION](#txa473116_1) | 5 |
|  [Special Terms](#txa473116_2) | 5 |
|  [Summary](#txa473116_3) | 7 |
|  [Risk Factors](#txa473116_4) | 12 |
|  [Purchase](#txa473116_5) | 16 |
|  [Initial Strategy Selections](#txa473116_6) | 18 |
|  [Declared Rate Strategy](#txa473116_7) | 18 |
|  [Indexed Strategies](#txa473116_8) | 19 |
|  [Vested Gains and Losses](#txa473116_9) | 22 |
|  [Asymmetrical Impact of Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategies Using the Same Index](#txa473116_10) | 26 |
|  [Examples—Impact of Withdrawals on Indexed Strategy Values](#txa473116_11) | 28 |
|  [Strategy Renewals and Reallocations at Term End](#txa473116_12) | 40 |
|  [Cash Benefit](#txa473116_13) | 41 |
|  [Examples - Amount Available for Withdrawal](#txa473116_14) | 43 |
|  [Early Withdrawal Charge](#txa473116_15) | 49 |
|  [Annuity Payout Benefit](#txa473116_16) | 51 |
|  [Death Benefit](#txa473116_17) | 53 |
|  [Payout Options](#txa473116_18) | 55 |
|  [Processing Applications and Requests](#txa473116_19) | 58 |
|  [Right to Cancel (Free Look)](#txa473116_20) | 60 |
|  [Annual Statement and Confirmations](#txa473116_21) | 60 |
|  [Electronic Delivery](#txa473116_22) | 60 |
|  [Abandoned Property Requirements](#txa473116_23) | 61 |
|  [Owner](#txa473116_24) | 61 |
|  [Annuitant](#txa473116_25) | 62 |
|  [Beneficiary](#txa473116_26) | 62 |
|  [Other Contract Provisions](#txa473116_27) | 63 |
|  [Previous Notice Methods](#txa473116_28) | 63 |
|  [State Variations](#txa473116_29) | 63 |
|  [Index Replacement](#txa473116_30) | 66 |
|  [Federal Tax Considerations](#txa473116_31) | 67 |
|  [Premium and Other Taxes](#txa473116_32) | 71 |
|  [Distribution of the Contracts](#txa473116_33) | 71 |
|  [MassMutual Ascend Life's General Account](#txa473116_34) | 72 |
|  [Legal Matters](#txa473116_35) | 73 |
|  [Experts](#txa473116_36) | 73 |
|  [The Registration Statement](#txa473116_37) | 74 |
|  [MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE INFORMATION](#txa473116_38) | A-74 |

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**INDEX FRONTIER<sup>®</sup> 7 ANNUITY INFORMATION** 

**Special Terms** 

In this prospectus, the following capitalized terms have the meanings set out below.

ACCOUNT VALUE. The sum of the values of each Crediting Strategy, plus the value of the Purchase Payment Account, if any.

ANNUITANT. The natural person or persons on whose life Annuity Payout Benefit is based.

ANNUITY PAYOUT BENEFIT. A series of periodic payments made under a Payout Option. The terms and conditions are described in the Annuity Payout Benefit section of this prospectus.

ANNUITY PAYOUT INITIATION DATE. The first day of the first payment interval for which payment of an Annuity Payout Benefit is to be made.

BAILOUT TRIGGER. The Maximum Gain for the next Term of an Indexed Strategy that triggers a waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges under the Bailout right of an Indexed Strategy.

BENEFICIARY. A person entitled to receive all or part of a Death Benefit that is to be paid under the Contract on account of a death before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.

BUFFER. The portion of a negative Index Change for a Term that is disregarded when determining a Vested Loss for a Buffer Strategy. The Buffer varies depending on the day of the Term. Once the final Market Day of the Term has been reached, the Buffer is 10%. Before the final Market Day, the Buffer is equal to: 10% x ((365 – N) / 365), where N is equal to the number of days remaining until the final Market Day of the Term.

CONTRACT. The legally binding agreement between you and MassMutual Ascend Life, including applicable endorsements and riders.

CONTRACT ANNIVERSARY. The date in each year that is the annual anniversary of the Contract Effective Date. That date is set out on your Contract Specifications Page.

CONTRACT EFFECTIVE DATE. The date as of which the initial Purchase Payment is applied to the Contract. That date is set out on your Contract Specifications Page.

CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS PAGE. The page in your Contract that contains details unique to your Contract.

CONTRACT YEAR. A 12-month period that starts on the Contract Effective Date or on a Contract Anniversary.

CREDITING STRATEGY. A specified method by which interest or gain or loss is calculated for a Term. The Crediting Strategies that are currently available are set out on the first page of this prospectus.

DEATH BENEFIT. An amount that becomes payable if you die before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date and before the date that the Contract is Surrendered. The terms and conditions are described in the Death Benefit section of this prospectus.

DECLARED RATE. A fixed interest rate set by us for a Term of the Declared Rate Strategy.

DECLARED RATE STRATEGY. A Crediting Strategy that credits interest at a Declared Rate.

EARLY WITHDRAWAL CHARGE. A charge deducted from the Account Value of your Contract if, during the first seven Contract Years, you Surrender your Contract or you take a withdrawal in excess of the Free Withdrawal Allowance (including systematic withdrawals and required minimum distributions). The Early Withdrawal Charge does not apply to a withdrawal that qualifies for the Free Withdrawal Allowance or the amount, if any, that qualifies for another waiver. The Early Withdrawal Charge does not apply to an Annuity Payout Benefit or Death Benefit.

FREE WITHDRAWAL ALLOWANCE. The total amount that may be taken as a withdrawal or Surrendered during a Contract Year without an Early Withdrawal Charge that would otherwise apply. This amount is described in the Free Withdrawal Allowance section of this prospectus. Like any other withdrawal, an amount withdrawn that is covered by the Free Withdrawal Allowance will reduce the value of an Indexed Strategy on a dollar-for dollar basis, and will proportionally reduce the Investment Base of a Strategy.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
INDEX. A stock market index or an exchange-traded fund.

INDEX CHANGE. The increase or decrease, if any, in the applicable Index Value over a Term of an Indexed Strategy.

INDEX VALUE. For Indexed Strategies that use the S&P 500 Index, the Index Value is the closing value of the Index. For Indexed Strategies that use the SPDR Gold Shares ETF, the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF, or the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF, the Index Value is the fund's closing share price on the NYSE Arca.

INDEXED STRATEGY. A Crediting Strategy that provides a return based, in part, on changes in an Index Value.

INVESTMENT BASE. The amount applied to an Indexed Strategy at the start of a current Term. A withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge reduces the Investment Base proportionally to the reduction in the value of that Indexed Strategy due to the withdrawal or charge. For example, if a withdrawal reduces the value of an Indexed Strategy by 15%, then it will reduce the Investment Base of that Strategy by 15%.

MARKET CLOSE. The close of the regular or core trading session on the market used to measure a given Indexed Strategy.

MARKET DAY. Each day that all markets that are used to measure available Indexed Strategies are open for regular trading.

MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE ("WE," "US," "OUR," "MMALIC"). MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company.

MAXIMUM GAIN. The largest positive Index Change for a Term that is taken into account to determine the Vested Gain for a given Indexed Strategy. We set the Maximum Gain for each Term of an Indexed Strategy before the first day of that Term. For a given Term, we may set a different Maximum Gain for amounts attributable to Purchase Payments received on different dates. The Maximum Gain can also be called a "Cap".

MAXIMUM LOSS. The most negative Index Change for a Term that is taken into account to determine a Vested Loss for a given Conserve Strategy or Growth Strategy. The Maximum Loss for a Growth Strategy is a loss of 10% and will apply to all Terms of that Growth Strategy. The Maximum Loss for a Conserve Strategy is 0% and will apply to all Terms of that Conserve Strategy. The Maximum Loss can also be called a "Floor".

OWNER ("YOU," "YOURS"). The person(s) who possesses the ownership rights under the Contract. If there is more than one Owner, each Owner will be a joint owner of the Contract and each reference to Owner means joint owners.

PAYOUT OPTION. The form in which an Annuity Payout Benefit or Death Benefit may be paid. Standard options are described in the Payout Options section of this prospectus.

PURCHASE PAYMENT. An amount received by us for the Contract. This amount is after the deduction of any fee charged by the person remitting payment and any taxes withheld from the payment.

PURCHASE PAYMENT ACCOUNT. An account where a Purchase Payment is held from the date it is applied to the Contract until the first Strategy Application Date on or after that date.

REQUEST IN GOOD ORDER. Information provided or a request made that is:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• complete and satisfactory to us;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• sent to us on our form or in a manner satisfactory to us, which may, at our discretion, be by telephone or
electronic means; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• received at our administrative office.

Information provided or a request made is complete and satisfactory when we have received: (1) all the information and legal documentation that we require to process the information or the request; and (2) instructions that are sufficiently clear that we do not need to exercise any discretion to process the information or the request. If you have any questions, you should contact us or your registered representative before submitting your request.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
STRATEGY APPLICATION DATE. The 6th and 20th days of each month.

SURRENDER. The termination of your Contract in exchange for its Surrender Value.

SURRENDER VALUE. The Account Value minus the Early Withdrawal Charge that would apply on a Surrender of the Contract.

TAX-QUALIFIED CONTRACT. An annuity contract that is intended to qualify for special tax treatment for retirement savings. If your Contract is a Tax-Qualified Contract, the cover page of your Contract includes information about its tax qualification. If your Contract is not a Tax-Qualified Contract, the cover page of your Contract will identify it as a "Nonqualified Annuity."

TERM. The period for which Contract values are allocated to a given Crediting Strategy, and over which interest or gain or loss is calculated. Each Term is one year long, and will start and end on a Strategy Application Date. A new Term will start on the date that the preceding Term ends.

VESTED GAIN. The portion of any positive Index Change for the Term of an Indexed Strategy that is taken into account when determining the value of that Indexed Strategy. For any day of a Term, the Vested Gain is equal to: (1) any positive Index Change for the Term, but not exceeding the Maximum Gain set for that Term; multiplied by (2) the applicable Vesting Factor for that day; and then multiplied by (3) the remaining Investment Base for that Term.

VESTED LOSS. The portion of any negative Index Change for the Term of an Indexed Strategy that is taken into account when determining the value of that Indexed Strategy. For any day of a Term, the Vested Loss is equal to: (1) any negative Index Change for the Term, after taking into account either the Maximum Loss for each Term of that Indexed Strategy or the Buffer; multiplied by (2) the remaining Investment Base for that Term.

VESTING FACTOR. A factor used to determine a Vested Gain. Vesting Factors are described in the Vested Gains and Losses section of this prospectus.

**Summary** 

The MassMutual Ascend Life Index Frontier**<sup>®</sup>** 7 annuity is a modified single premium deferred annuity contract that may help you accumulate retirement savings. The Contract is intended for long term investment purposes. The Contract is a legal agreement between you as the Owner and MassMutual Ascend Life as the issuing insurance company. In the Contract, you agree to make one or more Purchase Payments to us and we agree to pay the Annuity Payout Benefit to you.

Like all deferred annuities, the Contract has two periods. During the period prior to the Annuity Payout Initiation Date, your Contract may accumulate earnings on a tax-deferred basis. During the period that begins on the Annuity Payout Initiation Date, we will make payments under the selected Payout Option.

The following chart describes the key features of the Contract. Read this prospectus for more detailed information about the Contract.

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| Benefits | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The **Annuity Payout Benefit** is a series of periodic payments made under a Payout Option. This benefit can provide you with income for a fixed period of time or for life. It is based on the Account Value on the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The **Cash Benefit** lets you take out all of your Account Value (surrender) or take out part of it (withdrawal). An Early Withdrawal Charge generally applies if you take money out during the first seven Contract Years. You can Surrender your Contract or take a withdrawal before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The **Death Benefit** is payable if you die before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date. This benefit is paid to your beneficiaries. It is based on the Death Benefit Value, which will never be less than your Purchase Payments, reduced proportionately for withdrawals.<br>Please see the Annuity Payout Benefit, Cash Benefit, and Death Benefit sections on pages [ ] for more information |

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| Purchase Payments | The Contract is a modified single premium annuity. This means we will accept Purchase Payments only during the purchase payment period, which ends two months after the Contract Effective Date. The initial Purchase Payment must be at least $25,000. Each additional Purchase Payment must be at least $10,000. You will need our prior approval if:<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you are age 80 or younger and want to make a Purchase Payment(s) of more than $1,000,000; or<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you are over age 80 and want to make a Purchase Payment(s) of more than $750,000.<br>Please see the Purchase section on page [ ] for more information. | The Contract is a modified single premium annuity. This means we will accept Purchase Payments only during the purchase payment period, which ends two months after the Contract Effective Date. The initial Purchase Payment must be at least $25,000. Each additional Purchase Payment must be at least $10,000. You will need our prior approval if:<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you are age 80 or younger and want to make a Purchase Payment(s) of more than $1,000,000; or<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you are over age 80 and want to make a Purchase Payment(s) of more than $750,000.<br>Please see the Purchase section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Issue Age | Each Owner must be age 80 or younger on the Contract Effective Date. Please see the Purchase section on page [ ] for more information. | Each Owner must be age 80 or younger on the Contract Effective Date. Please see the Purchase section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Indexed Strategies | We currently offer nine Indexed Strategies. | We currently offer nine Indexed Strategies. |
|  | **Conserve/0% Floor Strategies** | **Index** |
|  | S&P 500 0% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index |
|  | SPDR Gold Shares 0% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF |
|  | iShares U.S. Real Estate 0% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF |
|  | iShares MSCI EAFE 0% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF |
|  | **Growth/-10% Floor Strategies** | **Index** |
|  | S&P 500 -10% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index |
|  | SPDR Gold Shares -10% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF |
|  | iShares U.S. Real Estate -10% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF |
|  | iShares MSCI EAFE -10% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF |
|  | **10% Buffer Strategy** | **Index** |
|  | S&P 500 10% Buffer | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index |
|  | **Conserve/0% Floor Strategies**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Conserve Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Conserve Strategy will never decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term.<br>**Growth/-10% Floor Strategies**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Growth Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Growth Strategy will decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term. If you allocate money to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative Index Change.<br>**10% Buffer Strategy**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of the Buffer Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of the Buffer Strategy will decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term. If you allocate money to the Buffer Strategy, at the end of the Term you can lose up to 90% of that money due to a negative Index Change. At the end of the Term, 10% of the money you allocated is protected from loss. You can lose more than 90% of that money if you withdraw it before the end of the Term.<br><u>Note: The S&P 500 Buffer strategy is not available for Contracts issued prior to May 2020.</u><br>Please see the Indexed Strategies section on page [ ] for more information. | **Conserve/0% Floor Strategies**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Conserve Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Conserve Strategy will never decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term.<br>**Growth/-10% Floor Strategies**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Growth Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Growth Strategy will decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term. If you allocate money to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative Index Change.<br>**10% Buffer Strategy**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of the Buffer Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of the Buffer Strategy will decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term. If you allocate money to the Buffer Strategy, at the end of the Term you can lose up to 90% of that money due to a negative Index Change. At the end of the Term, 10% of the money you allocated is protected from loss. You can lose more than 90% of that money if you withdraw it before the end of the Term.<br><u>Note: The S&P 500 Buffer strategy is not available for Contracts issued prior to May 2020.</u><br>Please see the Indexed Strategies section on page [ ] for more information. |

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| Indexed Strategy Value and Investment Base | At the start of a Term, the value of an Indexed Strategy is equal to the Investment Base for that Term, which is the amount applied to that Strategy for that Term.<br>During a Term, a Vested Gain increases the Strategy value or a Vested Loss reduces the Strategy value.<br>A withdrawal reduces the Strategy value, including the value of any Conserve/0% Floor Strategy, by the amount of the withdrawal and related Early Withdrawal Charge.<br>A withdrawal reduces the Investment Base by the portion of the Investment Base needed to pay for the withdrawal and related Early Withdrawal Charge. The reduction in the Investment Base is proportional to the reduction in the Strategy value. This means that we calculate the percentage of Strategy Value that is being withdrawn and we reduce your Investment Base by the same percentage. If you take a withdrawal when your Strategy Value is less than your Investment Base, the amount of Investment Base reduction will exceed the dollar amount of your withdrawal. For example, if your Strategy Value is $30,000 and you withdraw $12,000, you have withdrawn 40% of Strategy Value. If your Investment Base was $40,000 before the withdrawal, it would be reduced by $16,000 ($40,000 x .40) and your new Investment Base after the withdrawal would be $24,000 ($40,000 – $16,000). If your Strategy Value is greater than your Investment Base, the amount of the Investment Base reduction will be less than the dollar amount of the withdrawal.<br>Please see the Indexed Strategies section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Vested Gains and Losses | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Each day of a Term, the value of an Indexed Strategy is adjusted for the Vested Gain or Loss since the start of that Term. We use the following formulas to calculate Vested Gains and Losses.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Vested Gain = any positive Index Change for the Term (but not exceeding the Maximum Gain set for the Term) x applicable Vesting Factor for that day x remaining Investment Base for the current Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Vested Loss = any negative Index Change for the Term (after taking into account either the Maximum Loss for the Term or the Buffer, as applicable) x remaining Investment Base for the current Term.<br>Please see the Vested Gains and Losses section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Maximum Gains | We set a Maximum Gain for each Indexed Strategy prior to the start of each Term. This means the Maximum Gain for an Indexed Strategy may change for each Term. At least 10 days before the next Term starts, we will post the Maximum Gain that will apply to an Indexed Strategy for that next Term on our website. The Previous Notice Methods section of this prospectus describes a different process used to provide notice of the Maximum Gain for each Indexed Strategy that will apply to Contracts issued prior to May 1, 2019. In general, we will set a higher Maximum Gain for a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy than the Maximum Gain for a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy that uses the same Index. In general, we will set a higher Maximum Gain for a 10% Buffer Strategy than the Maximum Gain for a Growth Strategy that uses the same Index.<br>Please see the Vested Gains and Losses section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Maximum Losses | The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Conserve Strategy is 0%.<br> The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Growth Strategy is a loss of 10%.<br> The Maximum Loss for each Term of the Buffer Strategy is a loss of 90%, or more than 90% if a withdrawal is taken before the end of the Term. In addition, your cumulative loss over Multiple Terms could exceed 90% of your investment.<br>Please see the Vested Gains and Losses section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Buffer | The Buffer at the end of each Term of a Buffer Strategy is 10%. Before the end of each Term, the Buffer is calculated daily as a prorated share of the annual 10% Buffer. Please see the Vested Gains and Losses section on page [ ] for more information. |

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| Vesting Factors | Vesting Factors for the Indexed Strategies are fixed and are applied as follows:<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For a positive Index Change during a Term, the Vesting Factors are 25% for any date within the first six months of a Term; 50% for any date within the final six months of a Term but before the final Market Date of the Term; and 100% on or after the final Market Date of the Term. A Vesting Factor below 100% limits any positive increase during a Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **For a negative Index Change during a Term, there is no Vesting Factor.**<br>Please see the Vested Gains and Losses section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Declared Rate Strategy | Amounts held under the Declared Rate Strategy are credited with interest daily throughout a Term at a rate we set before that Term begins. This means the interest rate for the Declared Rate Strategy may change for each Term. A Declared Rate will never be less than 1%. At least 10 days before the next Term starts, we will post the Declared Rate that will apply to the Declared Rate Strategy for that next Term on our website. The Previous Notice Methods section of this prospectus describes a different process used to provide notice of the Declared Rate that will apply to Contracts issued prior to May 1, 2019.<br>Please see the Declared Rate Strategy section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Strategy Renewals | At the end of each Term of a given Crediting Strategy, we will apply the ending value of that Strategy to a new Term of that same Strategy. The amount applied to a new Term will not include any amount that is moved as part of a reallocation at the Term end.<br>Please see the Strategy Renewals and Reallocations at Term End section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Strategy Reallocations | At the end of a Term, you may reallocate the ending values of the Crediting Strategies for that Term among the Strategies. Please see the Strategy Renewals and Reallocations at Term End section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Access to Your Money Through Withdrawals | You may take a withdrawal from your Contract at any time prior to the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• During the first seven Contract Years, unless you qualify for the Free Withdrawal Allowance or the bailout right as described below, an Early Withdrawal Charge will apply.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy will reduce the value of that Strategy on a dollar-for-dollar basis. A withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy during a Term will proportionally reduce the Investment Base used to calculate any subsequent Vested Gain or Loss in that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• In addition to any applicable Early Withdrawal Charge, a withdrawal may be subject to income tax, and a withdrawal before age 59<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub> may also be subject to an additional 10% penalty tax.<br>Please see the Early Withdrawal Charge section on page [ ] for more information. |

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| Early Withdrawal Charge | An Early Withdrawal Charge applies during the first seven Contract Years if you Surrender your Contract or withdraw an amount in excess of the Free Withdrawal Allowance. The charge is equal to the amount subject to the charge multiplied by the applicable rate set out below. |

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| Contract Year | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8+ |
|  Early Withdrawal Charge Rate | 8% | 7% | 6% | 5% | 4% | 3% | 2% | 0% |

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|  | If you take a withdrawal from your Contract, the amount subject to the charge is the amount you withdraw plus any amount needed to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge. If you Surrender your Contract, the amount subject to the charge is your Account Value.<br>When you request a withdrawal, we will reduce the amount we pay you by the amount of the Early Withdrawal Charge. If you instruct us to pay you the specific withdrawal amount, we will instead reduce your Account Value by both the requested specific withdrawal amount, as well as the amount of the Early Withdrawal Charge. In this case, since you opted not to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge out of your withdrawal proceeds, we treat the Early Withdrawal Charge as an additional requested withdrawal. We will apply the Early Withdrawal Charge to both the specified withdrawal amount, as well as any amounts we withdraw to cover your Early Withdrawal Charges. The Early Withdrawal Charge does not apply to (1) a withdrawal that qualifies for the Free Withdrawal Allowance; (2) to any withdrawal under the Bailout right; or (3) the amount, if any, that qualifies for another waiver. Please see the Early Withdrawal Charge section below for more information.<br>For example, if after using their Free Withdrawal Allowance a contractholder requested that an additional $10,000 be withdrawn from their Account Value when a 9% Early Withdrawal Charge was in effect, a $900 Early Withdrawal Charge would apply (9% of $10,000 withdrawn). The contractholder would receive $9,100 ($10,000 - $900), minus any income tax withholding.<br>Similarly, if a contractholder instead requested that they receive a net amount of $10,000 from their account in the same circumstances, we would treat the Early Withdrawal Charge amount as an additional requested withdrawal subject to an Early Withdrawal Charge. This means that we will "gross up" your requested withdrawal to cover applicable Early Withdrawal Charges (and any income tax withholding). If we assume that no income tax withholding applies, the withdrawal would be grossed up to $10,989, calculated by dividing the net amount requested by 1 minus the Early Withdrawal Charge rate ($10,000 / (1 – 0.09)). The Early Withdrawal Charge would be $989 (9% of the $10,989 withdrawal), and the contractholder would receive $10,000 ($10,989 - $989). |
| Free Withdrawal Allowance | The Free Withdrawal Allowance lets you withdraw some money from your Contract without the imposition of the Early Withdrawal Charge. For the first Contract Year, the Free Withdrawal Allowance is an amount equal to 10% of the total Purchase Payments received by us. For each subsequent Contract Year, the Free Withdrawal Allowance is equal to 10% of the Account Value as of the most recent Contract Anniversary. The Free Withdrawal Allowance is non-cumulative and you may not carry over any unused portion to other Contract Years. Like any other withdrawal, an amount withdrawn that is covered by the Free Withdrawal Allowance will reduce the value of a Crediting Strategy on a dollar-for dollar basis, and will proportionally reduce the Investment Base of a Strategy. Please see the Early Withdrawal Charge section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Bailout Right | We will waive the Early Withdrawal Charge on an amount you withdraw if: (1) you withdraw it at the end of a Term from an Indexed Strategy; and (2) either the Maximum Gain for such Indexed Strategy for the next Term is less than the Bailout Trigger for the current Term, or such Indexed Strategy will not be available for the next Term. If the Bailout right will apply at the end of a Term, we will notify you at least 30 days before the end of that Term. The Bailout right does not apply to your initial Term. Please see the Early Withdrawal Charge section on page [ ] for more information. |

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| Payout Options | Like all annuity contracts, the Contract offers a range of Payout Options, which provide payments for your lifetime or for a fixed period. After payments begin, you cannot change the Payout Option or any fixed period you selected. The standard Payout Options are listed below.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Fixed Period Payout<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Life Payout<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Life Payout with Payments for at Least a Fixed Period<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Joint and One-half Survivor Payout<br>Please see the Payout Options section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Death Benefit | A Death Benefit is payable under the Contract if you die before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date. If the Owner is a non-natural person, such as a trust or a corporation, then a Death Benefit is payable under the Contract if an Annuitant dies before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.<br>The Death Benefit Value is the greater of: (1) the Account Value as of the applicable date; or (2) your Purchase Payment(s) reduced proportionally for all withdrawals, but not including amounts applied to pay Early Withdrawal Charges.<br>Please see the Death Benefit section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Tax Deferral | The Contract is generally tax deferred, which means that you are not taxed on the earnings in your Contract until the money is paid to you. Contracts owned by non-natural owners, such as trusts and corporations, are subject to special rules.<br>A tax-qualified retirement plan such as an IRA also provides tax deferral. Buying the Contract within a tax-qualified retirement plan does not give you any extra tax benefits. There should be reasons other than tax deferral for buying the Contract within a tax-qualified retirement plan.<br>Please see the Federal Tax Considerations section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Right to Cancel | If you purchase a Contract, you may cancel it within 20 days after you receive it. If you purchase a Contract to replace an existing annuity contract or insurance policy, you have 30 days to cancel the Contract. The right to cancel period may be longer in some states. In many states, you will bear the risk of investment gain or loss before cancellation.<br>Please see the Right to Cancel (Free Look) section on page [ ] for more information. |

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**Risk Factors** 

The Contract involves certain risks that you should understand before purchasing it. You should carefully consider your income needs and risk tolerance to determine whether the Contract or a particular Indexed Strategy is appropriate for you. The level of risk you bear and your potential investment performance will differ depending on the Crediting Strategies you choose.

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| Loss of Principal Related to Growth Strategy and Buffer Strategy due to Negative Index Changes | There is a significant risk of loss of principal and related earnings due to negative Index Changes if you allocate your Purchase Payment(s) to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy or 10% Buffer Strategy. Such a loss may be substantial.<br>This risk exists for each Growth Strategy because you agree to absorb any loss in the Index during the Term up to the Maximum Loss of 10%. This risk exists for each Buffer Strategy because you agree to absorb any loss in the Index that exceeds the Buffer. This risk of loss does not exist if you allocate your Purchase Payment(s) to the Declared Rate Strategy or to a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy.<br>If you allocate money to a Growth Strategy, you may lose up to 10% at the end of each Term. If you allocate money to a Growth Strategy over multiple Terms, you may lose up to 10% each Term, which may result in a cumulative loss that is greater than 10%.<br>If you allocate money to a Buffer Strategy, you may lose up to 90% at the end of each Term. If you allocate money to a Buffer Strategy and withdraw it before the end of the Term, you may lose more than 90% because the Buffer is less than 10% until the end of the Term. If you allocate money to a Buffer Strategy over multiple Terms, you may lose up to 90% at the end of each Term, which may result in a cumulative loss that is greater than 90%. |

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| Loss of Principal Related to Early Withdrawal Charge | There is also a risk of loss of principal and related earnings if you take a withdrawal from your Contract or Surrender it during the first seven Contract Years. This risk exists for each Strategy because an Early Withdrawal Charge may apply. A withdrawal from any Strategy, including any Conserve/0% Floor Strategy, when an Early Withdrawal Charge applies, will reduce the value of the Strategy. This reduction will occur even if there is a Vested Gain on the date of the withdrawal. An Early Withdrawal Charge may reduce the value of an Indexed Strategy by more than increases in the value of the Indexed Strategy resulting from Vested Gains in the current and prior Terms. |
| Long-Term Nature of Contract | The Contract is a deferred annuity, which means the Annuity Payout Benefit will begin on a future date. We designed the Contract to be a long-term investment that you can use to help build a retirement nest egg and provide income for retirement. The limitations and charges included in the Contract reflect its long-term nature. |
| Limits on Investment Return | Any increase in the value of an Indexed Strategy over a Term is limited by a Maximum Gain. Any increase in the value of an Indexed Strategy before the end of a Term is also limited by a Vesting Factor, which will be less than 100%. Due to these limitations, in many cases the return on money allocated to an Indexed Strategy will not fully reflect the corresponding positive Index Change for a Term.<br>The value of an Indexed Strategy only captures an Index Value at the applicable Market Close. You will bear the risk that an Index Value might be significantly lower at that Market Close than at another point during the Term.<br>We measure the Index Change by comparing the Index Value on the first day of the Term to the Index Value on the last day of the Term. This means that if the Index Value is lower on the last day of the Term, you may experience negative or flat performance even if the Index experienced gains through some, or most, of the Term. |
| Limits on Reallocations | You cannot reallocate money among the Crediting Strategies prior to the end of a Term. If you want to take money out of Strategy during a Term, you must take a withdrawal from that Strategy or Surrender your Contract. |
| Early Withdrawal Charge | If you withdraw money from or Surrender the Contract during the first seven Contract Years, we will deduct an Early Withdrawal Charge unless the Free Withdrawal Allowance or Bailout right applies. Deduction of the Early Withdrawal Charge may result in loss of principal and any prior earnings. An Early Withdrawal Charge will reduce Strategy values, including Conserve/0% Floor Strategy values. |
| Timing of Withdrawals, Surrender, Annuity Payout Initiation Date, or Death Benefit Claim | You should take into consideration the dates on which the Term(s) of your Indexed Strategies end relative to the timing of a withdrawal or Surrender, the Annuity Payout Initiation Date, or the submission of a Death Benefit claim.<br>For example, a withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy before the end of a Term will lock in the existing Vested Gain or Loss. In addition, due to the Vesting Factors that we use to calculate Vested Gains, increase in the value of an Indexed Strategy before the end of a Term will be less than the corresponding positive Index Change. |
| No Ability to Determine Strategy Values in Advance | If you request a withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy, we will process the withdrawal at the first Market Close after receipt of your Request in Good Order. This means you will not be able to determine in advance the value of an Indexed Strategy or the amount of any Vested Gain or Vested Loss. Likewise, you will not be able to determine in advance the amount payable upon Surrender, applied to the Annuity Payout Benefit, or payable as the Death Benefit. |
| Changes in Declared Rates | We set a Declared Rate for each new Term of the Declared Rate Strategy. The Declared Rate may be as low as 1%. You risk the possibility that the Declared Rate for a new Term may be lower than you would find acceptable. |
| Changes in Maximum Gains | We set a Maximum Gain for each new Term of an Indexed Strategy. The Maximum Gain for a new Term of an Indexed Strategy may be lower than its Maximum Gain for the current Term and may be as low as 1%. You risk the possibility that the Maximum Gain for a new Term may be lower than you would find acceptable. |

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| Unavailable Indexed Strategies | At the end of a Term, we may stop offering any Indexed Strategy and, consequently, an Indexed Strategy you selected may not be available after the end of a Term. An Indexed Strategy you selected also may not be available after the end of a Term due to minimums and maximums that we set. In that case, if you do not withdraw the funds pursuant to your Bailout Right or reallocate them to another Crediting Strategy, then we will reallocate the applicable funds to a default Strategy. The funds allocated to a default Strategy may earn a return that is lower than the return they would have earned if there had been no reallocation, but will not increase the risk of loss of principal and any prior earnings. |
| Unavailable Declared Rate Strategy | At the end of a Term, we may stop offering the Declared Rate Strategy and, consequently, only Indexed Strategies, which may earn 0% for any Term, will be available after the end of the Term. In this case, we will offer at least one Indexed Strategy with a Maximum Loss of 0%. Unlike a Declared Rate Strategy, no earnings are guaranteed for an Indexed Strategy. |
| Replacement of an Index | We have the right to replace an Index if it is discontinued or we are no longer able to use it, its calculation changes substantially, or we determine that hedging instruments are difficult to acquire or the cost of hedging becomes excessive. We may do so at the end of a Term or during a Term. If we replace an Index during a Term, we will calculate Vested Gains and Losses using the old Index up until the replacement date. After the replacement date, we will calculate Vested Gains and Losses using the new Index. The performance of the new Index may not be as good as the performance of the old Index. As a result, funds allocated to an Indexed Strategy may earn a return that is lower than the return they would have earned if there had been no replacement. |
| Involuntary Termination of Contract | If your Account Value falls below the minimum value of $5,000 for any reason, we may terminate your Contract. For example, we may terminate your Contract if a loss on a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy or a 10% Buffer Strategy causes your Account Value to fall below $5,000. |
| No Direct Investment in the Market | When you allocate money to an Indexed Strategy that uses the S&P 500 Index, you will not be investing in that Index, or in any stock included in that Index. Index Changes for these Strategies are calculated without taking into account dividends paid on stocks that make up the S&P 500 Index.<br>When you allocate money to an Indexed Strategy that uses the SPDR Gold Shares ETF, you will not be investing in that exchange-traded fund or in gold. Index Changes for these Strategies are calculated without taking into account dividends paid by the SPDR Gold Shares ETF.<br>When you allocate money to an Indexed Strategy that uses the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF, you will not be investing in that exchange-traded fund, in the securities or other assets that it holds, or in any real estate investment trust. Index Changes for these Strategies are calculated without taking into account dividends paid by the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF.<br>When you allocate money to an Indexed Strategy that uses the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF, you will not be investing in that exchange-traded fund or in the securities or other assets that it holds, or in any stock included in the MSCI EAFE Index. Index Changes for these Strategies are calculated without taking into account dividends paid by the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF.<br>Because changes in the value of an Indexed Strategy are subject to Maximum Gains and either Maximum Losses or a Buffer, as applicable, and may be subject to a Vesting Factor, the performance of an Indexed Strategy may diverge from the performance of the Index. |

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| Market Risk | Money allocated to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy or 10% Buffer Strategy that uses the S&P 500 Index is subject to the risk that the market value of the underlying securities that comprise the S&P 500 Index may decline. For a Growth Strategy, you will absorb any such market loss up to the amount of the Maximum Loss of 10%. For a Buffer Strategy, you will absorb any such market loss to the extent it exceeds the Buffer. In addition, any positive change in the Index Value over a Term will be lower than the total return on an investment in the stocks that comprise the S&P 500 Index because the total return will reflect dividend payments on those stocks and the Index Values will not reflect those dividend payments. Because the return on an Indexed Strategy that uses the S&P 500 Index will be subject to limitations and will be linked to its performance and not the performance of the underlying stocks, your return may be less than that of a direct investment in such stocks. In addition, due to the same limitations, your return may be less than that of a direct investment in a fund that tracks the S&P 500 Index.<br>Money allocated to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy that uses the SPDR Gold Shares ETF is subject to the risk that its share price may decline. You will absorb any such market loss up to the amount of the Maximum Loss of 10%. The share price of the SPDR Gold Shares ETF is tied to the price of gold, which has fluctuated widely over the past several years. The share price may not replicate the performance of gold. In addition, because the return on any indexed strategy that uses the SPDR Gold Shares ETF will be subject to limitations and will be linked to the performance of the SPDR Gold Shares ETF and not the performance of the price of gold, your return may be less than that of another investment linked directly to the fund's performance or the price of gold. In addition, due to the same limitations, your return may be less than that of a direct investment in the SPDR Gold Shares ETF.<br>Money allocated to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy that uses the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF is subject to the risk that its share price may decline. You will absorb any such market loss up to the amount of the Maximum Loss of 10%. The share price of the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF is tied to the performance of the real estate sector, which is highly sensitive to general and local economic conditions and developments, characterized by intense competition and periodic overbuilding, and subject to risks associated with leverage. The share price may not replicate the performance of the fund, its underlying index, or the components of that index. In addition, because the return on any indexed strategy that uses the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF will be subject to limitations and will be linked to the performance of the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF and not the performance of its underlying index or the components of that index, your return may be less than that of another investment linked directly to the performance of the fund, its underlying index, or a direct investment in such components. In addition, due to the same limitations, your return may be less than that of a direct investment in the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF.<br>Money allocated to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy that uses the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF is subject to the risk that its share price may decline. You will absorb any such market loss up to the amount of the Maximum Loss of 10%. The share price of the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF is tied to the performance of large- and mid-capitalization developed market equities, excluding the U.S. and Canada. The share price may not replicate the performance of the fund, its underlying index, or the components of that index. In addition, because the return on any indexed strategy that uses the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF will be subject to limitations and will be linked to the performance of the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF and not the performance of its underlying index or the components of that index, your return may be less than that of another investment linked directly to the performance of the fund, its underlying index, or a direct investment in such components. In addition, due to the same limitations, your return may be less than that of a direct investment in the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF.<br>[The outbreak of the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. As of the date of this prospectus, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant volatility and negative returns in the financial markets. These market conditions have impacted the performance of the Indexes to which the Growth/-10% Floor Strategies and 10% Buffer Strategies are linked. If these market conditions continue, and depending on your individual circumstances (e.g., your selected Crediting Strategies and the timing of any Purchase Payments, transfers, or withdrawals), you may experience (perhaps significant) negative returns under the Contract. The duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the future impact that the pandemic may have on the financial markets and global economy, cannot be foreseen, however. You should consult with a Financial Professional about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent market conditions may impact your future investment decisions related to the Contract, such as purchasing the Contract or making Purchase Payments, transfers, or withdrawals, based on your individual circumstances.<br>The historical performance of an Index does not guarantee future results.] |

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|:---|:---|
| Regulatory Risk | MassMutual Ascend Life is not an investment company and is not registered as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. The protections provided to investors by that Act are not applicable to the Contract. |
| Reliance on Our Claims-Paying Ability | No company other than MassMutual ascend Life has any legal responsibility to pay amounts owed under the Contract. You should look to the financial strength of MassMutual Ascend Life for its claims- paying ability.<br>Various factors, such as those listed below, could materially affect our business, financial condition, cash flows or future results and, in turn, our financial strength and claims-paying ability. A more complete discussion of these factors appears on pages A6-A10.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Adverse developments in financial markets and deterioration in global economic conditions<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unfavorable interest rate environments<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Losses on our investment portfolio<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Loss of market share due to intense competition<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Ineffectiveness of risk management policies<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Changes in applicable law and regulations<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Inability to obtain reinsurance or to collect on reinsurance<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Downgrade or potential downgrade in our financial strength rating<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Variations from actual experience and management's estimates and assumptions<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The amount of capital we must hold to meet our statutory requirements can vary significantly from time to time<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Legal actions and regulatory proceedings<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Difficulties with technology or data security<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Failure to protect the confidentiality of customer information<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Failure to maintain effective and efficient information systems<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Occurrence of catastrophic events, terrorism or military actions<br>[The economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic may negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations. The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic impacts financial markets, the global economy, and our financial strength and claims-paying ability will depend on future developments that cannot be predicted with certainty. We continue to be subject to significant state solvency regulations that require us to reserve amounts to pay our contractual guarantees. Please see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," "Risk Factors Related to MMALIC's Business," and "Financial Statements", and "Regulation" for additional financial information about the company and the state solvency regulations to which we are subject. ] |

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**Purchase** 

You may purchase a Contract only through a registered representative of a broker-dealer that has a selling agreement with our affiliated underwriter, MM Ascend Life Investor Services, LLC.

Any Owner or Annuitant must be age 80 or younger on the Contract Effective Date. To determine eligibility, we will use the person's age on his/her last birthday. We may make exceptions with respect to the maximum issue age in our discretion.

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The Contract is not available in all states. To find out if it is available in the state where you live, ask your registered representative. The Contract may not be available for purchase during certain periods. There are a number of reasons why the Contract periodically may not be available, including that we want to limit the volume of sales of the Contract. You may wish to speak to your registered representative about how this may affect your purchase. For example, in order to purchase the Contract, you may be required to submit your application prior to a specific date. In that case, if there is a delay because your application is incomplete or otherwise not in good order, you might not be able to purchase the Contract. Your broker-dealer may impose conditions on the purchase of the Contract, such as a lower maximum issue age, than we or other selling firms impose. We reserve the right to reject any application in our discretion.

**Purchase Payments** 

The Contract is a modified single premium annuity contract. This means you may make one or more Purchase Payments during the purchase payment period. The purchase payment period begins on the Contract Effective Date. It will end two months after the Contract Effective Date.

We must receive your initial Purchase Payment on or before the Contract Effective Date. We must receive each additional Purchase Payment before the last day of the purchase payment period. We will not accept any Purchase Payment that we receive after the date that the Contract is cancelled or Surrendered or after a death for which a Death Benefit is payable.

The initial Purchase Payment must be at least $25,000. Each additional Purchase Payment must be at least $10,000. You will need our prior approval if you are age 80 or younger and want to make a Purchase Payment(s) of more than $1,000,000; or you are over age 80 and want to make a Purchase Payment(s) of more than $750,000.

We reserve the right to refuse a Purchase Payment made in the form of a personal check in excess of $100,000. We may accept a Purchase Payment over $100,000 made in other forms, such as EFT/wire transfers, or certified checks or other checks written by financial institutions. We will not accept a Purchase Payment made with cash, money orders, or traveler's checks.

**Exchanges, Transfers, or Rollovers** 

If you own an annuity or tax-qualified account, you may be able to exchange it for an Index Frontier annuity, directly transfer it to an Index Frontier annuity, or roll it over to an Index Frontier annuity without paying taxes. Before you do, compare the benefits, features, and costs of each annuity or account. You may pay an early withdrawal charge under the old annuity or account. You may also pay a sales charge under the new annuity or account, or you may pay an early withdrawal charge if you later take withdrawals from the new annuity or account. Please note that some financial professionals may have a financial incentive to offer this Contract in place of the one the investor already owns. Ask your registered representative whether an exchange, transfer, or rollover would be advantageous, based on the features, benefits, and charges of the Index Frontier annuity.

If you purchase your Contract with an exchange, transfer, or rollover, a delay in processing the exchange, transfer, or rollover may delay the issuance of your new Contract or prevent the application of additional Purchase Payments to your existing Contract.

You should only exchange your existing contract for this Contract if you determine after comparing the features, fees, and risks of both contracts that it is preferable for you to purchase this Contract rather than continuing to own your existing contract.

**Application of Purchase Payments** 

Each Purchase Payment will be held in the Purchase Payment Account until it is applied to a Crediting Strategy on a Strategy Application Date. On each Strategy Application Date, we will apply the then current balance of the Purchase Payment Account to the Crediting Strategies you selected.

In certain states, we are required to give back your Purchase Payment(s) if you decide to cancel your Contract during the free look period. If we are required by law to refund your Purchase Payment(s), we reserve the right to hold your Purchase Payment(s) in the Purchase Payment Account until the first Strategy Application Date on or after the end of the free look period.

We will credit interest daily on amounts held in the Purchase Payment Account at the annual effective rate set out in your Contract. This rate will be at least 1%.

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**Purchase Payment Account Value** 

On any day, the value of the Purchase Payment Account is equal to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Purchase Payments received by us plus interest earned daily; minus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the premium tax or other tax that may apply to the Purchase Payments; and minus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• each withdrawal and related Early Withdrawal Charge taken from the Purchase Payment Account since the last
Strategy Application Date.

**Unforeseen Processing Delays** 

We are exposed to risks related to natural and man-made disasters and catastrophes, such as (but not limited to) storms, fires, floods, earthquakes, public health crises, malicious acts, and terrorist acts, any of which could adversely affect our ability to conduct business. A natural or man-made disaster or catastrophe, including a pandemic (such as COVID-19), could affect the ability or willingness of our employees or the employees of our service providers to perform their job responsibilities. While many of our employees and the employees of our service providers are able to work remotely, those remote work arrangements may result in our business operations being less efficient than under normal circumstances and could lead to delays in our processing of contract-related transactions, including orders from contract owners. Catastrophic events may negatively affect the computer and other systems on which we rely, impact our ability to calculate values under your Contract, or have other possible negative impacts. There can be no assurance that our service providers will be able to successfully avoid negative impacts associated with natural and man-made disasters and catastrophes.

A processing delay will not affect the effective date as of which we process transactions, including orders from contract owners, the date that a Term begins or ends, or the values used to process the transaction.

**Initial Strategy Selections** 

You make your initial selection of Crediting Strategies in your purchase application. Your initial selection is set out on your Contract Specifications Page.

Your initial selection will also apply to each subsequent Purchase Payment. If you wish to change your selection for a specific Purchase Payment, we must receive your Request in Good Order with the Crediting Strategies you selected for that Purchase Payment before the Strategy Application Date that applies to that Purchase Payment.

When you select a Crediting Strategy, you must also indicate the percentage of the Purchase Payment that you wish to allocate to that Crediting Strategy. All allocations must be in whole percentages that total 100%. We reserve the right to round amounts up or down to make whole percentages, and to reduce or increase amounts proportionally in order to total 100%.

Currently there are no limitations on the amounts that may be applied to a Crediting Strategy.

We may establish minimum and maximum amounts or percentages that may be applied to a given Crediting Strategy for any future Term in our discretion. We will notify you of any such minimum or maximum. We may limit the availability of a Strategy for a Term that would extend beyond the Annuity Payout Initiation Date. All Strategies may not be available in all states.

**Declared Rate Strategy** 

<u>Note: The Declared Rate Strategy is not available for Contracts issued in Missouri.</u> 

The Declared Rate Strategy earns interest at a fixed rate with annual compounding. Interest will be credited daily to amounts held under the Declared Rate Strategy.

We will set the Declared Rate for a Term before that Term starts. It is guaranteed for the entire Term. At least 10 days before the initial Term starts, we will post the Declared Rate that will apply to the Declared Rate Strategy for that Term on our website (www.massmutualascend.com/RILArates).

If you are not satisfied with the Declared Rate offered for your initial Term, you may rescind your Contract by returning it and giving written notice of your decision to rescind. You will have 20 days in which to rescind your Contract. The rescission period will end at midnight of the 20th day after the date on which your initial Term starts. If you exercise this rescission right, we will return your Purchase Payment(s), without any adjustment for the Early Withdrawal Charge.

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We may set a different Declared Rate for each subsequent Term. For a Term, different rates may apply with respect to amounts attributable to Purchase Payments received on different dates. At least 10 days before the next Term starts, we will post the Declared Rate that will apply to the Declared Rate Strategy for that next Term on our website (www.massmutualascend.com/RILArates). The Previous Notice Methods section of this prospectus describes a different process used to provide notice of the Declared Rate that will apply to Contracts issued prior to May 1, 2019.

In any event, the Declared Rate for a Term will never be less than the guaranteed minimum interest rate set out in the Declared Rate Strategy endorsement included in your Contract. This rate will be at least 1% per year.

**Term** 

Each Term of the Declared Rate Strategy is one year long and will start and end on a Strategy Application Date. A new Term will start at the end of the preceding Term.

If you make only one Purchase Payment or you make all of your Purchase Payments before the initial Strategy Application Date, then each Term of the Declared Rate Strategy will end on the same date in any given year. If you make a Purchase Payment after the initial Strategy Application Date, then your Purchase Payments will be applied to the Crediting Strategies on different Strategy Application Dates. In this case, the Declared Rate Strategy will have Terms that end on different dates in any given year.

*Examples.* These examples show how a Contract with multiple Purchase Payments may have Terms that end on different dates.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You make your initial Purchase Payment on March 10 and another Purchase Payment on March 17. You allocate
both payments to the Declared Rate Strategy and both payments are applied on March 20. Each Term of the Declared Rate Strategy will start and end on March 20.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You make your initial Purchase Payment on May 2 and another Purchase Payment on June 14. You allocate both
payments to the Declared Rate Strategy. Your initial Purchase Payment is applied on May 6 and the other Purchase Payment is applied on June 20. The Declared Rate Strategy will have Terms that start and end on May 6 and other Terms that
start and end on June 20.

**Declared Rate Strategy Value** 

The value of the Declared Rate Strategy is equal to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the amounts applied to the Strategy at the start of the current Term; minus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• each withdrawal and related Early Withdrawal Charge taken from the Strategy during the current Term; plus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• interest that we have credited on the balances in the Strategy for the current Term.

**Indexed Strategies** 

The Indexed Strategies provide returns that are based, in part, upon changes in an Index Value. The Indexed Strategies do not earn interest at a fixed rate. Unlike a traditional variable annuity, the values of the Indexed Strategies are not based on the investment performance of underlying portfolios.

Each Indexed Strategy has a Maximum Gain for each Term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We will set a new Maximum Gain for each Indexed Strategy prior to the start of each Term. In general, the Maximum
Gain for a Growth Strategy will be higher than the Maximum Gain for a Conserve Strategy using the same Index, and the Maximum Gain for a Buffer Strategy will be higher than the Maximum Gain for a Growth Strategy using the same Index.

Each Conserve Strategy and Growth Strategy has a Maximum Loss for each Term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Conserve Strategy is 0%. The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Growth Strategy
is a loss of 10%.

Each Buffer Strategy has a Buffer for each Term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Buffer at the end of each Term is 10%. Before the end of each Term, the Buffer is calculated daily as a
prorated share of the annual 10% Buffer.

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Changes in the value of an Indexed Strategy reflect the change in the applicable Index Value since the start of the applicable Term, the Maximum Gain we set for that Indexed Strategy for that Term, the applicable Vesting Factor, and the applicable Buffer or Maximum Loss for that Indexed Strategy. **If you select a Growth Strategy or a Buffer Strategy, then each Term it is possible for you to lose a portion of your Purchase Payment(s) and any earnings allocated to that Indexed Strategy.**

**See Vested Gains and Losses section below for additional details.** 

The Indexed Strategies that are currently available are listed below. You may allocate your funds to any of the Indexed Strategies, subject to the procedures disclosed in this prospectus.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Conserve/0% Floor Strategies** | **Index** | **Maximum Loss/Floor of 0%** |
| S&P 500 0% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| SPDR Gold Shares 0% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares U.S. Real Estate 0% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares MSCI EAFE 0% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| **Growth/-10% Floor Strategies** | **Index** | **Maximum Loss/Floor of 10%** |
| S&P 500 -10% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| SPDR Gold Shares -10% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares U.S. Real Estate -10% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares MSCI EAFE -10% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| **10% Buffer Strategy** | **Index** | **End of Term Buffer of 10%** |
| S&P 500 10% Buffer | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Buffer Strategy, at the end of the Term you can lose up to 90% of that money due to a negative change in the Index. At the end of the Term, 10% of the money you allocated is protected from loss. You can lose more than 90% of that money if you withdraw it before the end of the Term. |

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<u>Note: The S&P 500 Buffer strategy is not available for Contracts issued prior to May 2020.</u> 

An Early Withdrawal Charge may apply if you take a withdrawal during the first seven Contract Years. That charge will reduce Strategy values, including the value of a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy.

**Term** 

Each Term of an Indexed Strategy is one year long and will start and end on a Strategy Application Date. A new Term will start at the end of the preceding Term.

If you make only one Purchase Payment or you make all of your Purchase Payments before the initial Strategy Application Date, then each Term of each Indexed Strategy will end on the same date in any given year. If you make a Purchase Payment after the initial Strategy Application Date, then your Purchase Payments will be applied to the Crediting Strategies on different Strategy Application Dates. In this case, an Indexed Strategy may have Terms that end on different dates in any given year.

*Examples.* These examples show how a Contract with multiple Purchase Payments may have Terms that end on different dates.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You make your initial Purchase Payment on March 10 and another Purchase Payment on March 17. You allocate
both payments to the same Indexed Strategy and both payments are applied on March 20. Each Term of that Indexed Strategy will start and end on March 20.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You make your initial Purchase Payment on May 2 and another Purchase Payment on June 14. You allocate both
payments to the same Indexed Strategy. Your initial Purchase Payment is applied on May 6 and the other Purchase Payment is applied on June 20. That Indexed Strategy will have Terms that start and end on May 6 and other Terms that start and
end on June 20.

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**Indexed Strategy Value** 

The value of an Indexed Strategy is equal to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Investment Base for that Term, which is the amount applied to the Strategy at the start of the current Term;
minus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the portion of that Investment Base that is taken from the Strategy to pay for each withdrawal and related Early
Withdrawal Charge during the current Term; and plus or minus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Vested Gain or Loss for that Term on the remaining portion of the Investment Base.

The portion of the Investment Base that is taken from an Indexed Strategy to pay for a withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge is proportional to the reduction in the value of the Indexed Strategy for the withdrawal and any related charge. This means that we calculate the percentage of Strategy Value that is being withdrawn and we reduce the Investment Base by the same percentage.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A withdrawal and any related charge will reduce the value of an Indexed Strategy by an amount equal to the
withdrawal and any charge.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• But the reduction in the Investment Base to pay for a withdrawal and any related charge is proportional to the
reduction in the value of the Indexed Strategy. For example, if the withdrawal and any related charge reduces the value of an Indexed Strategy by 15%, then it will reduce the Investment Base by 15%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If there is a Vested Gain, then the portion of the Investment Base taken will be less than the withdrawal and any
related charge. With a Vested Gain, the Indexed Strategy value will be higher than the Investment Base. For example, a 15% reduction in the Investment Base will be less than a 15% reduction in the Strategy value.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **If there is a Vested Loss, then the portion of the Investment Base taken will be greater than the withdrawal and any related charge.** With a Vested Loss, the Investment Base will be higher than Indexed Strategy value. For example, a 15% reduction in the Investment Base will be greater than a 15% reduction in the Strategy value.

Here are the formulas that we use to calculate a proportional reduction in the Investment Base for a withdrawal and the remaining Investment Base.

Percentage reduction in Strategy value = withdrawal plus any related Early Withdrawal Charge / Strategy value immediately before the withdrawal

Proportionate reduction in Investment Base = Investment Base immediately before the withdrawal x percentage reduction in Strategy value

Remaining Investment Base = Investment Base immediately before the withdrawal - reduction in Investment Base

*Examples*. You allocate $5,000 to an Indexed Strategy at the start of a Term. This means the Investment Base for the Term is $5,000. You take a $1,000 withdrawal and that amount includes the amount needed to pay any related Early Withdrawal Charge that applies to the withdrawal.

*Assume at the time of your withdrawal that you have a Vested Gain of 5%.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Vested Gain is equal to $250 ($5,000 x 0.05).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Strategy value on the withdrawal date is $5,250 ($5,000 + $250).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The withdrawal (including any related Early Withdrawal Charge) reduces the Strategy value by $1,000.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Strategy value after the withdrawal is $4,250 ($5,250 - $1,000).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The percentage reduction in the Strategy value is 19.05% ($1,000 / $5,250).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The proportionate reduction in the Investment Base is $952 ($5,000 x 0.1905).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The remaining Investment Base is $4,048 ($5,000 - $952).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Due to the Vested Gain, the proportionate reduction in the Investment Base ($952) is less than the withdrawal and
related charge ($1,000). This means, after the withdrawal, the Investment Base is $4,048 rather than $4,000.

*Assume at the time of your withdrawal that you have a Vested Loss of 10%.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Vested Loss is equal to $500 ($5,000 x 0.10).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Strategy value on the withdrawal date is $4,500 ($5,000 - $500).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The withdrawal (including any related Early Withdrawal Charge) reduces the Strategy value by $1,000.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Strategy value after the withdrawal is $3,500 ($4,500 - $1,000).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The percentage reduction in the Strategy value is 22.22% ($1,000 / $4,500).

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The proportionate reduction in the Investment Base is $1,111 ($5,000 x 0.2222).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The remaining Investment Base is $3,889 ($5,000 - $1,111).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Due to the Vested Loss, the proportionate reduction in the Investment Base ($1,111) is greater than the
withdrawal and related charge ($1,000). This means, after the withdrawal, the Investment Base is $3,889 rather than $4,000.

**Vested Gains and Losses** 

**Overview** 

Each day of a Term, the value of an Indexed Strategy includes the Vested Gain or Loss, if any, since the start of that Term. Vested Gain or Loss is calculated on the remaining Investment Base for that Term.

Here is the formula that we use to calculate the amount of the Vested Gain or Loss.

Amount of Vested Gain or Loss = remaining Investment Base x Vested Gain or Loss percentage

*Example.* At the beginning of a Term in Contract Year 10, your entire Account Value of $100,000 is allocated to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy. You do not take any withdrawals during that Term. You Surrender your Contract at the end of that Term. No Early Withdrawal Charge applies to a Surrender in Contract Year 10.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Vested Gain is 4%, then the Strategy value includes a $4,000 Vested Gain ($100,000 x 0.04). The amount
payable upon Surrender will be $104,000 ($100,000 + $4,000).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Vested Loss is 3%, then the Strategy value includes a $3,000 Vested Loss ($100,000 x 0.03). The amount
payable upon Surrender will be $97,000 ($100,000 - $3,000).

If in this example your Surrender occurs in Contract Year 4 instead, when a 5% Early Withdrawal Charge applies, the amount payable upon Surrender is reduced by applicable Early Withdrawal Charges. For this example, we assume that the Account Value was $100,000 on the most recent Contract Anniversary.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Vested Gain is 4%, then the amount payable is reduced by Early Withdrawal Charges of $4,700, calculated as
5% of the Strategy Value minus the Free Withdrawal Allowance (5% x ($104,000 – ($100,000 x 10%))). The amount payable upon Surrender will be $99,300 ($104,000 - $4,700).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Vested Loss is 3%, then the amount payable is reduced by Early Withdrawal Charges of $4,350, calculated as
5% of the Strategy Value minus the Free Withdrawal Allowance (5% x ($97,000 – ($100,000 x 10%))). The amount payable upon Surrender will be $92,650 ($97,000 - $4,350).

***Index Change.*** Before we can calculate the Vested Gain or Loss since the start of a Term, we must determine the Index Change since the start of that Term. The Index Change is the increase or decrease in the applicable Index Value. This increase or decrease is expressed as a percentage of the applicable Index Value at the start of that Term. It is measured from the Index Value at the start of that Term to the Index Value at the last Market Close on or before the date the Index Change is determined.

*Example.* The Index Value was 1000 at the start of a Term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Index Value at the applicable Market Close is 1065, then there is a positive Index Change of 6.5% ((1065 -
1000) / 1000).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Index Value at the applicable Market Close is 925, then there is a negative Index Change of 7.5% ((925 -
1000) / 1000).

***Indexes***. The S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index is designed to reflect the large-cap sector of the U.S. equity market and, due to its composition, it also represents the U.S. equity market in general. It includes 500 leading companies and captures approximately 80% coverage of available market capitalization. The S&P 500 Index does not include dividends declared by any of the companies in this Index. Consequently, any positive change in the Index Value over a Term will be lower than the total return on a direct investment in the stocks that comprise the S&P 500 Index. The S&P 500 Index is a product of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC. For more information, visit www.US.SPIndices.com.

The SPDR Gold Shares represent units of beneficial interest in, and ownership of, the SPDR Gold Trust, an exchange traded fund that holds gold bullion. The investment objective of the trust is for the shares to reflect the performance of the price of gold bullion, less the trust's expenses. The shares are designed to mirror as closely as possible the price of gold, and the value of the shares relates directly to the value of the gold held by the trust, less its liabilities. The price of gold has fluctuated widely over the

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past several years and the shares have experienced significant price fluctuations. The value of the gold held by the trust is determined using the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Gold Price PM. The Gold Shares trade on the NYSE Arca under the symbol GLD. For more information, visit www.spdrgoldshares.com.

The iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF is an exchange traded fund that seeks to track the investment performance of the Dow Jones U.S. Real Estate Index. This underlying index measures the performance of the real estate sector in the U.S. equity market. A significant portion of the underlying index is represented by real estate investment trusts (REITs), but the components are likely to change over time. The fund's adviser uses an indexing strategy that involves investing in a representative sample of securities that collectively has an investment profile similar to that of the underlying index. The fund is subject to certain risks including the risk that it may not replicate the performance of the underlying index and those risks associated with concentrated investment in REITS. The fund's performance will be reduced by its expenses and fees. The fund's shares trade on the NYSE Arca under the symbol IYR. For more information, visit **www.iShares.com** and search ticker symbol IYR.

The iShares MSCI EAFE ETF is an exchange traded fund that seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large- and mid-capitalization developed market equities, excluding the U.S. and Canada (MSCI EAFE Index). This underlying index includes stocks from Europe, Australasia and the Far East. The components of the underlying index, and the degree to which these components represent certain industries and/or countries, are likely to change over time. The fund's adviser uses an indexing strategy that involves investing in a representative sample of securities that collectively has an investment profile similar to that of the underlying index. The fund is subject to certain risks including the risk that it may not replicate the performance of the underlying index and those risks associated with investment in non-U.S. issuers. The fund's performance will be reduced by its expenses and fees. The fund's shares trade on the NYSE Arca under the symbol EFA. For more information, visit **www.iShares.com** and search ticker symbol EFA.

***Index Values***. Index Values are determined at each Market Close. An Index Value at the start of a Term is its value at the last Market Close on or before the first day of that Term. An Index Value at the end of a Term is its value at the Market Close on the last Market Day of that Term. We will use consistent sources to obtain the closing values of an Index. We currently obtain the closing values for the S&P 500 Index and the SPDR Gold Shares ETF from S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC and the closing values for the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF and the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF from BlackRock, Inc. If those sources are no longer available, we will select an alternative published source(s) to obtain such values.

***Market Close***. A Market Close is the close of the regular or core trading session on the market used to measure an Index Change for a give Indexed Strategy.

***Market Day.*** A Market Day is each day that all markets that are used to measure Index Changes for available Indexed Strategies are open for regular trading.

**Vested Gain** 

The Vested Gain is the portion of any positive Index Change that is taken into account when determining the value of an Indexed Strategy. Here is the formula that we use to calculate a Vested Gain for any day of a Term.

Vested Gain = any positive Index Change since the start of the current Term (but not exceeding the Maximum Gain set for the Term) x applicable Vesting Factor for that day x remaining Investment Base for the current Term

***Maximum Gain****.* The Maximum Gain for an Indexed Strategy is the largest positive Index Change for a Term that is taken into account to determine the Vested Gain for that Indexed Strategy for that Term. For example, if the Maximum Gain for a Term is 5% and the Index Change at the end of that Term is positive 8%, then the Vested Gain for that Term is 5%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**•** **The Maximum Gain will vary between Indexed Strategies.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**•** **The Maximum Gain for a given Indexed Strategy will vary between Terms.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**•** **We guarantee that the Maximum Gain for a Term of an Indexed Strategy will never be less than 1%.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**•** **For each Term, your return on an Indexed Strategy may be less than any positive Index Change over that Term.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**•** **For each Term, your return on an Indexed Strategy may be less than the Maximum Gain.** 

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We set the Maximum Gain for each Indexed Strategy based on the cost of hedging, interest rates, and other market factors, and the Purchase Payments received for a Contract. In general, the Maximum Gain we set for a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy will be higher than the Maximum Gain we set for the corresponding Conserve/0% Floor Strategy , and the Maximum Gain for a 10% Buffer Strategy will be higher than the Maximum Gain for the corresponding Growth Strategy. Likewise, we may set Maximum Gains for Contracts with larger Purchase Payments that are higher than Maximum Gains for Contracts with smaller Purchase Payments.

Each Purchase Payment is applied to an initial Term of a Strategy on the first Strategy Application Date on or after the date that the payment is received. The Maximum Gain for each Strategy Application Date may vary. The Maximum Gain for the first Strategy Application Date will be available on our website (www.massmutualascend.com/RILArates) on the date you signed the application (as long as we receive the application for the Contract within eight days after the date you sign it) and before the date of any Purchase Payment to which the Maximum Gain will apply. If we receive the application for the Contract within eight days after the date you sign it, we will guarantee the Maximum Gain in effect on the date you signed the application for three Strategy Application Dates from the date of the application.

If we receive the signed application within eight days after the date you sign it, then for any **Indexed Strategy**:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For an initial Term starting on the first Strategy Application Date on or after the application date, the Maximum
Gain will be the Maximum Gain in effect on the date you signed the application.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For an initial Term starting on one of the next two Strategy Application Dates, the Maximum Gain will be the
higher of the Maximum Gain in effect on the date you signed the application or the Maximum Gain otherwise in effect for that Strategy Application Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For any initial Term starting on a later Strategy Application Date, the Maximum Gain will be the Maximum Gain in
effect for that Strategy Application Date.

If we receive the signed application more than eight days after the date you sign it, then the guarantee does not apply and the Maximum Gain for each Initial Term will be the Maximum Gain in effect for that Strategy Application Date.

*Example* : You sign an application for a Contract on May 1 and allocate all of your Purchase Payments to the S&P 500 -10% Floor Strategy. On the date of the application, the Maximum Gain for the first Strategy Application Date (May 6) is 13%. We receive the application and the first Purchase Payment from you on May 8 and the second Purchase Payment from you on May 23. The Maximum Gains for the next two Strategy Application Dates are 14% (May 20) and 12% (June 6).

In this case, the initial 1-year Term for the first Purchase Payment would begin on May 20 and would have a 14% Maximum Gain (the higher of the May 6 rate or the May 20 rate). The initial 1-year Term for the second Purchase Payment would begin on June 6 and would have an 13% Maximum Gain (the higher of the May 6 rate or the June 6 rate).

If we had not received your signed application until May 10 (more than eight days after the date you signed the application), then you would not qualify for the rate guarantee, and the initial 1-year Term for the first Purchase Payment received on May 8 would have a 14% Maximum Gain (the May 20 rate effective for Purchase Payments received between May 7 and May 20), and the initial 1-year Term for the second Purchase Payment received on May 23 would have a 12% Maximum Gain (the June 6 rate effective for Purchase Payments received between May 21 and June 6).

Once your Contract is effective, we will send you a written notice at least 30 days before the end of each Term with information about the Indexed Strategies that will be available for the next Term. At least 10 days before the next Term starts, we will post the Maximum Gain that will apply to an Indexed Strategy for that next Term on our website (www.massmutualascend.com/RILArates). The Previous Notice Methods section of this prospectus describes a different process used to provide notice of the Maximum Gain for each Indexed Strategy that will apply to Contracts issued prior to May 1, 2019.

Because we can change the Maximum Gain that applies to an Indexed Strategy, the Contract has a Bailout right that allows you to take a withdrawal without incurring an Early Withdrawal Charge under certain circumstances. See Bailout Right discussion in the Early Withdrawal Charge section below.

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***Vesting Factor****.* The Vesting Factor varies depending on the day of the Term for which the Vested Gain is calculated. A Vesting Factor limits the portion of a positive Index Change that is taken into account when calculating the Vested Gain for a given Indexed Strategy for a given Term.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  | **Vesting Factor** |
|  Dates within first six months of a Term | 25% |
|  Dates within the final six months of a Term but before the final Market Day of that Term | 50% |
|  On the final Market Day of a Term | 100% |

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A Market Day is each day that all markets that are used to measure Index Changes for available Indexes Strategies are open for regular trading.

Months are measured from the first day of the Term. For example, if a Term starts on January 20, the final six months of that Term will begin on July 20.

If any date in a Term is after the final Market Day of that Term, then a 100% Vesting Factor applies on that date when Vested Gain for that Term is calculated. For example, if a Term ends on a Monday when the markets are closed due to a holiday, then the final Market Day of that Term is the Friday before that holiday. If an automatic transaction is scheduled for Saturday, then the 100% Vesting Factor applies to that transaction.

*Example*. On the date of Surrender, your entire Account Value of $100,000 is allocated to the S&P 500 Growth/-10% Floor Strategy, which has a 12% Maximum Gain for the Term. You Surrender your Contract in month 9 of that Term, which means a Vesting Factor of 50% applies. For this example, we assume that you did not take any withdrawals before you Surrender your Contract. Assume there is a positive Index Change of 15% at the date on which you Surrender your Contract. Because the Index Change exceeds the Maximum Gain, the Maximum Gain applies and limits the Index Change to 12%. As a result, the Vested Gain is 6% (12% x 0.50). The Investment Base on the date of Surrender is $100,000. The Vested Gain that applies upon Surrender will be $6,000 ($100,000 x 0.06) and the amount payable will be $106,000 minus any related Early Withdrawal Charge.

**Vested Loss** 

The Vested Loss is the portion of any negative Index Change that is taken into account when determining the value of an Indexed Strategy. Here is the formula that we use to calculate a Vested Loss for any day of a Term.

Vested Loss = any negative Index Change since the start of the current Term (after taking into account either the Maximum Loss for each Term or the Buffer, as applicable) x remaining Investment Base for the current Term

***Maximum Loss****.* The Maximum Loss for a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy or a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy is the most negative Index Change for a Term that is taken into account to determine the Vested Loss for that Indexed Strategy for that Term. For example, if the Maximum Loss for a Term is 10% and the negative Index Change at the end of that Term is 14%, then the Vested Loss for that Term is 10%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Conserve Strategy is 0%. This means that the value of a Conserve Strategy
will not decrease due to a negative Index Change.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Growth Strategy is a loss of 10%. This means that the value of a Growth
Strategy will not decrease by more than 10% during a Term due to a negative Index Change.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Maximum Loss will not vary depending on the day of the Term. This means that for a Growth Strategy, the
Maximum Loss throughout the Term is 10%.

***Buffer****.* The Buffer is the portion of a negative Index Change for a Term that is disregarded when determining a Vested Loss for a 10% Buffer Strategy. The Buffer varies depending on the day of the Term. The Buffer at the end of a Term is 10%. Before the end of the Term, the Buffer is calculated daily as a prorated share of the annual 10% Buffer. For example, when 40% of a Term has elapsed, the Buffer on that day equals 40% of the Buffer that would apply at the end of the Term. When 80% of a Term has elapsed, the Buffer on that day equals 80% of the Buffer that would apply at the end of the Term. As a result, a negative Index Change of 15% would produce different Vested Losses at the following junctures:

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Day 146 of Term:

Days Remaining to last Market Day of Term: 219

Buffer: 10% x (365-219)/365 = 4%

Vested Loss: 15% - 4% = 11%

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Day 292 of Term:

Days Remaining to last Market Day of Term: 73

Buffer: 10% x (365-73)/365 = 8%

Vested Loss: 15% - 8% = 7%

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• End of Term:

Buffer: 10%

Vested Loss: 15% -10% = 5%

***No Vesting Factor****.* A Vesting Factor does not apply when the Vested Loss is calculated. This means that all of the negative Index Change is taken into account when calculating the Vested Loss for a given Indexed Strategy for a given Term.

*Example*. On the date of Surrender, your entire Account Value of $100,000 is allocated to the S&P 500 Growth Strategy, which has a 10% Maximum Loss. You Surrender your Contract before the end of a Term. For this example, we assume that you did not take any withdrawals before you Surrender your Contract. Assume there is a negative Index Change of 12.5% on the day that you Surrender your Contract. Because the Index Change exceeds the Maximum Loss, the Maximum Loss applies and limits the Index Change to 10%. As a result, the Vested Loss is 10%. The Investment Base on the date of Surrender is $100,000. The Vested Loss that applies upon Surrender will be $10,000 ($100,000 x 0.10 = $10,000) and the amount payable will be $90,000 minus any related Early Withdrawal Charge.

**Effect of Vested Gains and Losses** 

Here is a summary of the effect of Vested Gains and Losses in various situations.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Vested Gain | A Vested Gain increases the Indexed Strategy value. | If you take a withdrawal, the Investment Base will be reduced by less than the actual amount of the withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge because of the Vested Gain. |
| Vested Loss | A Vested Loss reduces the Indexed Strategy value. | If you take a withdrawal, the Investment Base will be reduced by more than the actual amount of the withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge because of the Vested Loss. |
| Additional Information | Any change in an Indexed Strategy value will affect the Account Value, which is used to determine the Surrender Value, the Annuity Payout Value and the Death Benefit Value. | If you take a withdrawal, you will receive the amount you requested and the Indexed Strategy value will be reduced by the amount of the withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge. |

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**Asymmetrical Impact of Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategies Using the Same Index** 

A Growth/-10% Floor Strategy and a 10% Buffer Strategy that use the same Index will often perform differently over identical time periods. These divergent results are produced by variations in the methods used to calculate Vested Gains and Vested Losses for Growth Strategies and Buffer Strategies. You should consider these variations if you are choosing between a Growth Strategy and a Buffer Strategy, and whether either is consistent with your income needs and risk tolerance. Currently, the only Index used by both a Growth Strategy and a Buffer Strategy is the S&P 500 Index.

**<u>Vested Gain Variations</u>**

Vested Gains for Growth Strategies and Buffer Strategies are calculated using the same formula, but that formula can produce different results when different Maximum Gains are applied. The Maximum Gain for a Buffer Strategy generally will be higher than the Maximum Gain for a Growth Strategy that uses the same Index. This is because the maximum amount of money you can lose is larger for a Buffer Strategy than a Growth Strategy.

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For example, if we set a 12% Maximum Gain for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy and a 14% Maximum Gain for the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy, then the Vested Gains for identical investments in these two strategies would be the same over any period that the Index Value increased up to 12%, but would diverge over any period that the Index Value increased by more than 12%. During any such period, the Vested Gains for the Growth Strategy would be capped at 12%, while the Vested Gains for the Buffer Strategy may reach as high as 14%. As a result, it is possible for the Buffer Strategy to increase in value to a greater extent than the Growth Strategy.

**<u>Vested Loss Variations</u>**

The formulas used to calculate Vested Losses for Growth Strategies and Buffer Strategies are similar, except Vested Losses for a Growth Strategy are limited by a Maximum Loss, while Vested Losses for a Buffer Strategy are limited by a Buffer. The 10% Maximum Loss for a Growth Strategy does not change throughout the Term, which means that any negative Index Change between 0% and -10% is taken into account whenever Vested Loss is calculated. The amount of the Buffer for a Buffer Strategy increases each day during the course of each Term, culminating with a 10% Buffer at the end of each Term. This means that any a negative Index Change from 0 to -10% is disregarded when calculating Vested Loss at the end of the Term, but a smaller portion of a negative Index Change is disregarded when measuring a Vested Loss before the end of the Term.

The differences in the impact of negative Index Changes on a Growth Strategy and a Buffer Strategy using the same Index over the same Term depends on two variables: the size of the negative Index Change and the size of the Buffer on the date that the Vested Losses are measured.

The following chart illustrates how changes to these two variables impact Vested Losses for a Growth Strategy and a Buffer Strategy using the same Index over the same Term:

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| | | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term |
|  | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: |
|  | Day 73 | Day 73 | Day 146 | Day 146 | Day 219 | Day 219 | Day 292 | Day 292 | End of Term | End of Term |
|  | (20% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (20% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (40% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (40% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (60% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (60% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (80% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (80% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (100% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (100% of Term<br>Elapsed) |
| Index Change | Growth<br>Strategy | Buffer<br>Strategy<br>2% Buffer | Growth<br>Strategy | Buffer<br>Strategy<br>4% Buffer | Growth<br>Strategy | Buffer<br>Strategy<br>6% Buffer | Growth<br>Strategy | Buffer<br>Strategy<br>8% Buffer | Growth<br>Strategy | Buffer<br>Strategy<br>10% Buffer |
|  0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% |
|  -2% | -2% | 0% | -2% | 0% | -2% | 0% | -2% | 0% | -2% | 0% |
|  -4% | -4% | -2% | -4% | 0% | -4% | 0% | -4% | 0% | -4% | 0% |
|  -6% | -6% | -4% | -6% | -2% | -6% | 0% | -6% | 0% | -6% | 0% |
|  -8% | -8% | -6% | -8% | -4% | -8% | -2% | -8% | 0% | -8% | 0% |
|  -10% | -10% | -8% | -10% | -6% | -10% | -4% | -10% | -2% | -10% | 0% |
|  -12% | -10% | -10% | -10% | -8% | -10% | -6% | -10% | -4% | -10% | -2% |
|  -14% | -10% | -12% | -10% | -10% | -10% | -8% | -10% | -6% | -10% | -4% |
|  -16% | -10% | -14% | -10% | -12% | -10% | -10% | -10% | -8% | -10% | -6% |
|  -18% | -10% | -16% | -10% | -14% | -10% | -12% | -10% | -10% | -10% | -8% |
|  -20% | -10% | -18% | -10% | -16% | -10% | -14% | -10% | -12% | -10% | -10% |
|  -22% | -10% | -20% | -10% | -18% | -10% | -16% | -10% | -14% | -10% | -12% |

---

In general, Growth Strategies are designed to protect against larger negative Index Changes, while Buffer Strategies are designed to protect against smaller negative Index Changes. When identical investments are made in a Growth Strategy and a Buffer Strategy using the same Index over the same Term, a negative change in the Index produces the following results:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a negative Index Change between 0% and -10%, measured on any day, would
have a greater negative impact on the Growth Strategy

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a negative Index Change between -10% and -20% could have a greater negative impact on either strategy, depending on the Index Change and the size of the Buffer on the day the Index Change is measured

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a negative Index Change below -20%, measured on any day, would have a
greater negative impact on the Buffer Strategy

**See Examples - Impact of Withdrawals on Contract Values and Amounts Realized section below for examples that illustrate these concepts.** 

**Examples - Impact of Withdrawals on Contract Values and Amounts Realized** 

These examples are intended to show you how a withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy before the end of the Term affects the Indexed Strategy values, Vested Gains and Losses, and amounts realized at the end of the Term. These examples assume that you allocate a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 Growth/-10% Floor Strategy and a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 10% Buffer Strategy. The examples assume that the withdrawals are covered by the Free Withdrawal Allowance and therefore no Early Withdrawal Charges apply. If Early Withdrawal Charges did apply, the amounts realized at the end of the Term would be reduced by both the withdrawal and the amount of the Early Withdrawal Charge.

**Example A: Withdrawal When Index Rising Steadily** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $10,000 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 1040 | 1040 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1040 - 1000) /1000 = 4.00% | (1040 - 1000) / 1000 = 4.00% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 4.00% | 4.00% |
|  Vesting Factor on Day 146 | 25% | 25% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 4.00% x 25% = 1.00% Vested Gain | 4.00% x 25% = 1.00% Vested Gain |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $50,000 x 1.00% = $500 Vested Gain | $50,000 x 1.00% = $500 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 + $500 = $50,500 | $50,000 + $500 = $50,500 |
|  Amount Withdrawn | $5000 | $5000 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $5,000 / $50,500 = 9.90% | $5,000 / $50,500 = 9.90% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .0990 = $4,950 | $50,000 x .0990 = $4,950 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $50,000 - $4,950 = $45,050 | $50,000 - $4,950 = $45,050 |
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $45050 | $45050 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 1130 | 1130 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1130 - 1000) / 1000 = 13.00% | (1130 - 1000) / 1000 = 13.00% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 12.00% | 13.00% |
|  Vesting Factor at Term End | 100% | 100% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 12.00% x 100% = 12.00% Vested Gain | 13% x 100% = 13.00% Vested Gain |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $45,050 x 12.00% = $5,406 Vested Gain | $45,050 x 13.00% = $5,857 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $45,050 + $5,406 = $50,456 | $45,050 + $5,857 = $50,907 |

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<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $55,456 ($5,000 withdrawal plus the $50,456 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

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Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $56,000 ($50,000 Investment Base plus $6,000 gain ($50,000 x 12.00%)).

This hypothetical Strategy value of $56,000 exceeds the amount realized of $55,456 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the gain at the time of the withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be less than the actual
amount withdrawn ($5,000 - $4,950 = $50); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent gain at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that gain to be
smaller than the hypothetical gain ($5,406 - $6,000 = -$594).

The result for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy ($50 - $594 = -$544) is equal to the difference between the hypothetical Strategy value and the amount realized ($56,000 - $544 = $55,456).

<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $55,907 ($5,000 withdrawal plus the $50,907 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $56,500 ($50,000 Investment Base plus $6,500 gain ($50,000 x 13.00%)). This hypothetical Strategy value exceeds the amount realized for the same reasons described above for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy.

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy outperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $451 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($55,907) exceeds the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($55,456) because the Growth Strategy had a lower Maximum Gain, and the Index Change at the end of the Term exceeded the Growth Strategy's lower Maximum Gain.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example B: Withdrawal When Index Falls and Then Rises** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $10,000 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 880 | 880 |
|  Negative Index Change | (880 - 1000) / 1000 = -12.00% | (880 - 1000) / 1000 = -12.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer on Day 146 of Term | N/A | 10% x (365-219)/365 = 4.00% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -4.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -12.00% - (-4.00)% = -8.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested Loss | -8.00% x 100% = 8.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $50,000 x 10.00% = $5,000 Vested Loss | $50,000 x 8.00% = $4,000 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 - $5,000 = $45,000 | $50,000 - $4,000 = $46,000 |
|  Amount Withdrawn\* | $4945 | $5055 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $4,945 / $45,000 = 10.99% | $5,055 / $46,000 = 10.99% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .1099 = $5,495 | $50,000 x .1099 = $5,495 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $50,000 - $5,495 = $44,505 | $50,000 - $5,495 = $44,505 |
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $44505 | $44505 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 1130 | 1130 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1130 - 1000) / 1000 = 13% | (1130 - 1000) / 1000 = 13% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 12.00% | 13.00% |
|  Vesting Factor at Term End | 100% | 100% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 12.00% x 100% = 12.00% Vested Gain | 13.00% x 100% = 13.00% Vested Gain |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $44,505 x 12.00% = $5,341 Vested Gain | $44,505 x 13.00% = $5,786 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $44,505 + $5,341 = $49,846 | $44,505 + $5,786 = $50,291 |

---

\* Note: The withdrawal is taken proportionally from each Indexed Strategy, based on the ratio of that Strategy's value to the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal. In this example, the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal was $91,000 ($45,000 + $46,000). The S&P 500 Growth Strategy value was 49.45% of that total value ($45,000 / $91,000 = 49.45%), so 49.45% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($4945) was taken from it. The S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value was 50.55% of that total value ($46,000 / $91,000 = 50.55%), so 50.55% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($5055) was taken from it. 

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $54,791 ($4,945 withdrawal plus the $49,846 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $56,000 ($50,000 Investment Base plus $6,000 gain ($50,000 x 12.00%)).

This hypothetical Strategy value of $56,000 exceeds the amount realized of $54,791 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the loss at the time of the withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be greater than the actual
amount withdrawn ($4,945 - $5,495 = -$550); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent gain at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that gain to be
smaller than the hypothetical gain ($5,341 - $6,000 = -$659).

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
The result for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy (-$550 + -$659 = -$1,209) is equal to the difference between the hypothetical Strategy value and the amount realized ($56,000 - $1,209 = $54,791).

<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $55,346 ($5,055 withdrawal plus the $50,291 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $56,500 ($50,000 Investment Base plus $6,500 gain ($50,000 x 13.00%)). This hypothetical Strategy value exceeds the amount realized for the same reasons described above for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy.

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy outperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $555 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($55,346) exceeds the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($54,791) for two reasons: (1) at the time of the withdrawal, the Buffer absorbed more of the negative Index Change (4 percentage points of the -12.00% change) than the Maximum Loss absorbed (2 percentage points of the -12.00% change), thus resulting in more of the withdrawal being taken from the Buffer Strategy's value even though the Investment Base of both strategies was reduced by the same amount, and (2) the Index Change at the end of the Term exceeded the Growth Strategy's lower Maximum Gain, thus increasing the Buffer Strategy's value to a greater extent.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example C: Withdrawal When Index Falling Steadily** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $10,000 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 980 | 980 |
|  Negative Index Change | (980 - 1000) / 1000 = -2.00% | (980 - 1000) / 1000 = -2.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -2.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer on Day 146 of Term | N/A | 10% x (365-219)/365 = 4.00% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | Entire -2.00% Index Change |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | 0% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -2.00% x 100% = 2.00% Vested Loss | 0.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $50,000 x 2.00% = $1,000 Vested Loss | $0 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 - $1,000 = $49,000 | $50,000 - $0 = $50,000 |
|  Amount Withdrawn\* | $4949 | $5051 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $4,949 / $49,000 = 10.10% | $5,051 / $50,000 = 10.10% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .1010 = $5,050 | $50,000 x .1010 = $5,050 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $50,000 - $5,051 = $44,950 | $50,000 - $5,051 = $44,950 |
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $44950 | $44950 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 860 | 860 |
|  Negative Index Change | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer at End of Term | N/A | 10% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -10.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -14.00% - (-10.00%) = -4.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested Loss | -4.00% x 100% = 4.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $44,950 x 10.00% = $4,495 Vested Loss | $44,950 x 4.00% = $1,798 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $44,950 - $4,495 = $40,455 | $44,950 - $1,798 = $43,152 |

---

\* Note: The withdrawal is taken proportionally from each Indexed Strategy, based on the ratio of that Strategy's value to the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal. In this example, the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal was $99,000 ($49,000 + $50,000). The S&P 500 Growth Strategy value was 49.49% of that total value ($49,000 / $99,000 = 49.49%), so 49.49% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($4949) was taken from it. The S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value was 50.51% of that total value ($50,000 / $99,000 = 50.51%), so 50.51% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($5051) was taken from it. 

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $45,404 ($4,949 withdrawal plus the $40,455 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $45,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $5,000 loss ($50,000 x -10.00%)).

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
The amount realized of $45,404 exceeds this hypothetical Strategy value of $45,000 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the loss at the time of the withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be greater than the actual
amount withdrawn ($4,949 - $5,050 = -$101); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent loss at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that loss to be
smaller than the hypothetical loss ($5,000 - $4,495 = $505).

The result for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy ($505 - $101 = $404) is equal to the difference between the amount realized and the hypothetical Strategy value ($45,404 - $404 = $45,000).

<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $48,203 ($5,051 withdrawal plus the $43,152 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $48,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $2,000 loss ($50,000 x -4.00%)). This hypothetical Strategy value is lower than the amount realized for the same reasons described above for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy.

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy outperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $2,799 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($48,203) exceeds the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($45,404) for two reasons: (1) at the time of the withdrawal, the Buffer absorbed all of the negative Index Change of -2.00%, while the Maximum Loss did not absorb any of the negative Index Change, thus resulting in more of the withdrawal being taken from the Buffer Strategy's value even though the Investment Base of both strategies was reduced by the same amount, and (2) at the end of the Term, the Buffer absorbed more of the negative Index Change (10 percentage points of the -14.00% change) than the Maximum Loss absorbed (4 percentage points of the -14.00% change), thus reducing the Strategy value of the Growth Strategy to a greater extent.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example D: Withdrawal When Index Falling Steadily and Precipitously** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $10,000 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 850 | 850 |
|  Negative Index Change | (850 - 1000) / 1000 = -15.00% | (850 - 1000) / 1000 = -15.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer on Day 146 of Term | N/A | 10% x (365-219)/365 = 4.00% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -4.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -15.00% - (-4.00%) = -11.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested Loss | -11.00% x 100% = 11.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $50,000 x 10.00% = $5,000 Vested Loss | $50,000 x 11.00% = $5,500 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 - $5,000 = $45,000 | $50,000 - $5,500 = $44,500 |
|  Amount Withdrawn\* | $5028 | $4972 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $5,028/ $45,000 = 11.17% | $4,972/ $44,500 = 11.17% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .1117 = $5,585 | $50,000 x .1117 = $5,585 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $50,000 - $5,585 = $44,415 | $50,000 - $5,585 = $44,415 |
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $44415 | $44415 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 750 | 750 |
|  Negative Index Change | (750 - 1000) / 1000 = -25.00% | (750 - 1000) / 1000 = -25.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer at End of Term | N/A | 10% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -10.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -25.00% - (-10.00%) = -15.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested Loss | -15.00% x 100% = 15.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $44,415 x 10.00% = $4,442 Vested Loss | $44,415 x 15.00% = $6,662 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $44,415 - $4,442 = $39,973 | $44,415 - $6,662 = $37,753 |

---

\* Note: The withdrawal is taken proportionally from each Indexed Strategy, based on the ratio of that Strategy's value to the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal. In this example, the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal was $89,500 ($45,000 + $44,500). The S&P 500 Growth Strategy value was 50.28% of that total value ($45,000 / $89,500 = 50.28%), so 50.28% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($5028) was taken from it. The S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value was 49.72% of that total value ($44,500 / $89,500 = 49.72%), so 49.72% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($4972) was taken from it. 

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $45,001 ($5,028 withdrawal plus the $39,973 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $45,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $5,000 loss ($50,000 x -10.00%)).

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
The amount realized equals (after taking into account the effects of rounding) this hypothetical Strategy value of $45,000 because the Maximum Loss equally limited the negative Index Change both at the time of withdrawal and at the end of the Term.

<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $42,725 ($4,972 withdrawal plus the $37,753 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $42,500 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $7,500 loss ($50,000 x -15.00%)).

The amount realized of $42,725 exceeds this hypothetical Strategy value of $42,500 because:

• the loss at the time of the withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be greater than the actual
amount withdrawn ($4,972 - $5,585 = -$613); and

• the subsequent loss at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that loss to be
smaller than the hypothetical loss ($7,500 - $6,662 = -$838).

The result for the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy (-$613 + $838 = $225) is equal to the difference between the amount realized and the hypothetical Strategy value ($42,725 - $225 = $42,500).

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy underperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $2,276 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($42,725) is smaller than the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($45,001) for two reasons: (1) at the time of the withdrawal, the Buffer absorbed less of the negative Index Change of -15.00%, thus resulting in more of the withdrawal being taken from the Buffer Strategy's value even though the Investment Base of both strategies was reduced by the same amount, and (2) at the end of the Term, the Buffer absorbed less of the negative Index Change (10 percentage points of the -25.00% change) than the Maximum Loss absorbed (15 percentage points of the -25.00% change), thus reducing the Strategy value of the Buffer Strategy to a greater extent.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example E: Withdrawal When Index Rises and Then Falls** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $10,000 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 1080 | 1080 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1080 - 1000) / 1000 = 8.00% | (1080 - 1000) / 1000 = 8.00% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 8.00% | 8.00% |
|  Vesting Factor on Day 146 | 25% | 25% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 8.00% x 25% = 2.00% Vested Gain | 8.00% x 25% = 2.00% Vested Gain |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $50,000 x 2.00% = $1,000 Vested Gain | $50,000 x 2.00% = $1,000 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 + $1,000 = $51,000 | $50,000 + $1,000 = $51,000 |
|  Amount Withdrawn | $5000 | $5000 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $5,000 / $51,000 = 9.80% | $5,000 / $51,000 = 9.80% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .0980 = $4,900 | $50,000 x .0980 = $4,900 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $50,000 - $4,900 = $45,100 | $50,000 - $4,900 = $45,100 |
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $45100 | $45100 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 860 | 860 |
|  Negative Index Change | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer at End of Term | N/A | 10% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -10.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -14% - (-10%) = -4.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested Loss | -4.00% x 100% = 4.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $45,098 x 10.00% = $4,510 Vested Loss | $45,098 x 4.00% = $1,804 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $45,100 - $4,510 = $40,590 | $45,100 - $1,804 = $43,296 |

---

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $45,590 ($5,000 withdrawal plus the $40,590 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $45,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $5,000 loss ($50,000 x -10.00%)).

The amount realized of $45,590 exceeds this hypothetical Strategy value of $45,000 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the gain at the time of the withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be less than the actual
amount withdrawn ($5,000 - $4,900 = $100); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent loss at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that loss to be
smaller than the hypothetical loss ($5,000 - $4,510 = $490).

The result for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy ($100 + $490 = $90) is equal to the difference between the amount realized and the hypothetical Strategy value ($45,590 - $590 = $45,000).

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $48,296 ($5,000 withdrawal plus the $43,296 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $48,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $2,000 loss ($50,000 x -4.00%)). This hypothetical Strategy value is lower than the amount realized for the same reasons described above for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy.

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy outperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $2,706 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($48,296) exceeds the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($45,590) because, at the end of the Term, the Buffer absorbed more of the negative Index Change (10 percentage points of the -14.00% change) than the Maximum Loss absorbed (4 percentage points of the -14.00% change), thus reducing the Strategy value of the Growth Strategy to a greater extent.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example F: Multiple Withdrawals in a Volatile Market** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $2,500 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 1040 | 1040 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1040 - 1000) / 1000 = 4.00% | (1040 - 1000) / 1000 = 4.00% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 4.00% | 4.00% |
|  Vesting Factor on Day 146 | 25% | 25% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 4.00% x 25% = 1.00% Vested Gain | 4.00% x 25% = 1.00% Vested Gain |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $50,000 x 1.00% = $500 Vested Gain | $50,000 x 1.00% = $500 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 + $500 = $50,500 | $50,000 + $500 = $50,500 |
|  Amount Withdrawn | $1250 | $1250 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $1,250 / $50,500 = 2.48% | $1,250 / $50,500 = 2.48% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .0248 = $1,240 | $50,000 x .0248 = $1,240 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 146 Withdrawal | $50,000 - $1,240 = $48,760 | $50,000 - $1,240 = $48,760 |
| **Impact of $3,500 Withdrawal on Day 219 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 146 Withdrawal | $48760 | $48760 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 970 | 970 |
|  Negative Index Change | (970 - 1000) / 1000 = -3.00% | (970 - 1000) / 1000 = -3.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -3.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer on Day 219 of Term | N/A | 10% x (365-146)/365 = 6.00% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | Entire -3% Index Change |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | 0.00% |
|  Vested Loss as Percentage | -3.00% x 100% = 3.00% Vested Loss | 0.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $48,760 x 3.00% = $1,463 Vested Loss | $0 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $48,760 - $1,463 = $47,297 | $48,760 - $0 = $48,760 |
|  Amount Withdrawn\* | $1723 | $1777 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $1,723 / $47,297 = 3.64% | $1,777 / $48,760 = 3.64% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $48,760 x .0364 = $1,775 | $48,760 x .0364 = $1,775 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 219 Withdrawal | $48,760 - $1,775 = $46,985 | $48,760 - $1,775 = $46,985 |

---

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $4,000 Withdrawal on Day 292 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 219 Withdrawal | $46985 | $46985 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 1150 | 1150 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1150 - 1000) / 1000 = 15.00% | (1150 - 1000) / 1000 = 15.00% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 12.00% | 14.00% |
|  Vesting Factor in Month 8 | 50% | 50% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 12.00% x 50% = 6.00% Vested Gain | 14.00% x 50% = 7.00% Vested Gain |

---

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $46,985 x 6.00% = $2,819 Vested Gain | $46,985 x 7.00% = $3,289 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $46,985 + $2,819 = $49,804 | $46,985 + $3,289 = $50,274 |
|  Amount Withdrawn\* | $1991 | $2009 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $1,991 / $49,804 = 4.00% | $2,009 / $50,274 = 4.00% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $46,985 x .0400 = $1,879 | $46,985 x .0400 = $1,879 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 292 Withdrawal | $46,985 - $1,879 = $45,106 | $46,985 - $1,879 = $45,106 |
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 292 Withdrawal | $45106 | $45106 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 860 | 860 |
|  Negative Index Change | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer at End of Term | N/A | 10% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -10.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -14.00% - (-10.00%) = -4.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested Loss | -4.00% x 100% = 4.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $45,106 x 10.00% = $4,511 Vested Loss | $45,106 x 4.00% = $1,804 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $45,106 - $4,511 = $40,595 | $45,106 - $1,804 = $43,302 |

---

\* Note: The withdrawal is taken proportionally from each Indexed Strategy, based on the ratio of that Strategy's value to the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal. In this example, on Day 219 the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal was $96,057 ($47,297 + $48,760). The S&P 500 Growth Strategy value was 49.24% of that total value ($47,297 / $96,057 = 49.24%), so 49.24% of the $3,500 withdrawal ($1723) was taken from it. The S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value was 50.76% of that total value ($48,760 / $96,057 = 50.76%), so 50.76% of the $3,500 withdrawal ($1777) was taken from it. 

In this example, on Day 292 the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal was $100,078 ($49,804 + $50,274). The S&P 500 Growth Strategy value was 49.77% of that total value ($49,804 / $100,078 = 49.77%), so 49.77% of the $4,000 withdrawal ($1,991) was taken from it. The S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value was 50.23% of that total value ($50,274 / $100,078 = 50.23%), so 50.23% of the $4,000 withdrawal ($2,009) was taken from it.

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $45,559 ($4,964 total withdrawals plus the $40,595 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $45,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $5,000 loss ($50,000 x -10.00%)).

The amount realized of $45,561 exceeds this hypothetical Strategy value of $45,000 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the gains at the time of the $1,250 and $1,991 withdrawals caused the reductions in the Investment Base to be
less than the actual amounts withdrawn ($1,250 - $1,240 = $10 and $1,991 - $1,879 = $112);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the loss at the time of the $1,723 withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be greater than the
actual amount withdrawn ($1,723 - $1,775 = -$52); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent loss at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that loss to be
less than the hypothetical loss ($5,000 - $4,511 = $489).

The result for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy ($10 + $112 - $52 + $489 = $559) is equal to the difference between the amount realized and the hypothetical Strategy value ($45,559 - $559 = $45,000).

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<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $48,338 ($5,036 total withdrawals plus the $43,302 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $48,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $2,000 loss ($50,000 x -4.00%)). This hypothetical Strategy value is lower than the amount realized for the same reasons described above for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy.

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy outperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $2,779 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($48,338) exceeds the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($45,559) for three reasons: (1) at the time of the Day 219 withdrawal, the Buffer absorbed all of the negative Index Change of -3.00%, while the Maximum Loss did not absorb any of the negative Index Change, thus resulting in more of the withdrawal being taken from the Buffer Strategy's value even though the Investment Base of both strategies was reduced by the same amount, (2) at the time of the Day 292 withdrawal, the Index Change exceeded the Maximum Gain of both the Buffer Strategy and the Growth Strategy, but the Buffer Strategy had a higher Maximum Gain than the Growth Strategy, resulting in more of the withdrawal being taken from the Buffer Strategy's value even though the Investment Base of both strategies was reduced by the same amount, and (3) at the end of the Term, the Buffer absorbed more of the negative Index Change (10 percentage points of the -14.00% change) than the Maximum Loss absorbed (4 percentage points of the -14.00% change), thus reducing the Strategy value of the Growth Strategy to a greater extent.

**Strategy Renewals and Reallocations at Term End** 

**Renewals** 

At the end of each Term of a given Crediting Strategy, we will apply the ending value of that Strategy to a new Term of that same Strategy. The amount applied to a new Term of the same Strategy will not include any amount that is moved to a different Strategy as part of a reallocation at the Term end.

**Reallocations** 

At the end of a Term, you may reallocate the ending values of the Crediting Strategies for that Term among the available Strategies. You can only reallocate amounts from one Crediting Strategy to another at the end of the Term for which such amount is being held. You cannot make a reallocation at any other time.

We will send you written notice at least 30 days before the end of a Term to provide you with the opportunity to make a reallocation. We must receive your Request in Good Order for a reallocation on or before the last day of the Term. For example, if the end of a Term falls on a weekend, we must receive your request on the last Market Day before that weekend.

**Limitations** 

Reallocations must be in whole percentages that total 100%. We reserve the right to round amounts up or down to make whole percentages, and to reduce or increase amounts proportionally in order to total 100%.

Any renewal or reallocation will be subject to Strategy availability, minimums, and maximums. Currently there are no limitations on the amounts that may be applied to a Crediting Strategy. We may establish minimum and maximum amounts or percentages that may be applied to a given Crediting Strategy for any future Term in our discretion. We will notify you of any such minimum or maximum.

The new Term of each Strategy is subject to the Declared Rate or Maximum Gain in effect for that Strategy for that new Term. For example, the Declared Rate for a new Term of the Declared Rate Strategy may be different than the Declared Rate for the Term that is ending. Likewise, the Maximum Gain for an Indexed Strategy for a new Term may be different than the Maximum Gain for that Indexed Strategy for the Term that is ending.

**Availability of Strategies** 

At the end of a Term, we may eliminate a particular Strategy in our discretion. We will send you a written notice at least 30 days before the end of each Term with information about the Strategies that will be available for the next Term. At least 10 days before the next Term starts, we will post the Declared Rate and the Maximum Gains that will apply for that next Term on our website. The Previous Notice Methods section of this prospectus describes a different process used to provide notice of the Declared Rate and the Maximum Gains that will apply to contracts issued prior to May 1, 2019.

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We are not obligated to offer the Declared Rate Strategy or any one particular Indexed Strategy. At the end of a Term, we can add or stop offering any Strategy at our discretion. For example, we could stop offering Growth/-10% Floor Strategies after the first seven Contract Years. We may limit the availability of a Strategy for a Term that would extend beyond the Annuity Payout Initiation Date. All Strategies may not be available in all states.

One Indexed Strategy will always be available. If the Declared Rate Strategy is no longer available, then we must offer an Indexed Strategy that has a Maximum Loss of 0%. Unlike a Declared Rate Strategy, no earnings are guaranteed for an Indexed Strategy.

If we add or stop offering a Strategy at the end of a Term, we will send you a notification. If funds are held in a Strategy that will no longer be available after the end of a Term, the funds will remain in that Strategy until the end of that Term.

If you have allocated money to an Indexed Strategy and that Indexed Strategy will not be available for the next Term, then the Bailout right will apply. In this case, you may withdraw money from that Indexed Strategy at the end of the current Term without incurring an Early Withdrawal Charge, or you may reallocate amounts to another Strategy. If you have allocated money to the Declared Rate Strategy and it will not be available for the next Term, the Bailout right will not apply.

**Reallocations to Default Strategies** 

At the end of a Term, to the extent any amount cannot be applied to a given Crediting Strategy for the next Term because that Strategy is no longer available or the amount is under the minimum or over the maximum for that Strategy for the new Term, if you do not withdraw the funds pursuant to your Bailout Right or reallocate them to another Index Strategy, then we will reallocate the amount to a default Strategy.

Here are the rules that will apply to reallocations to a default Strategy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We will reallocate to the Declared Rate Strategy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If no Declared Rate Strategy is available, then we will designate an Indexed Strategy that has a Maximum Loss of
0% and we will reallocate to that designated Strategy.

If the amount to be applied exceeds the maximum, then the default reallocation rules will apply only to the excess amount. For example, if the maximum amount for a Crediting Strategy is $50,000 and the amount to be applied is $54,000, then the default reallocation rules will apply only to the excess $4,000.

**Cash Benefit** 

**Surrender** 

You may Surrender your Contract at any time before the earlier of: (1) the Annuity Payout Initiation Date; or (2) a death for which a Death Benefit is payable. The right to Surrender may be restricted if your Contract is purchased under an employer plan subject to IRC Section 401 (pension, profit sharing, and 401(k) plans), IRC Section 403(b) (tax-sheltered annuity plans), or IRC Section 457(b) (governmental deferred compensation plans).

A Surrender must be made by a Request in Good Order. The amount paid upon Surrender is the Surrender Value. If you Surrender your Contract, the Contract terminates.

**Withdrawals** 

You may take a withdrawal from your Contract at any time before the earliest of: (1) the Annuity Payout Initiation Date; (2) a death for which a Death Benefit is payable; or (3) the date that this Contract is Surrendered. The right to withdraw may be restricted if your Contract is purchased under an employer plan subject to IRC Section 401 (pension, profit sharing, and 401(k) plans), IRC Section 403(b) (tax-sheltered annuity plans), or IRC Section 457(b) (governmental deferred compensation plans).

A withdrawal must be made by a Request in Good Order. The amount of any withdrawal must at least $500. If the withdrawal would reduce the Account Value to less than the minimum value of $5,000, we will treat the withdrawal request as a request to withdraw the maximum amount that may be taken without reducing your Account Value to less than $5,000.

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We will withdraw funds from your Account Value as of the date on which we receive your Request in Good Order or any later specified effective date. Unless you instruct us otherwise by a Request in Good Order prior to the date of the withdrawal, a withdrawal will be taken in the following order:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• first proportionally from funds that then qualify for a waiver of the Early Withdrawal Charge pursuant to the
Bailout right;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• then from the Purchase Payment Account;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• then proportionally from the Declared Rate Strategies until all Declared Rate Strategies are exhausted; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• then proportionally from Indexed Strategies.

**Effect of Withdrawals** 

A withdrawal reduces the Account Value, which in turn reduces the amount payable upon Surrender, applied to the Annuity Payout Benefit, or payable as the Death Benefit.

If an Early Withdrawal Charge applies to your withdrawal, you will receive the amount that you requested, and your Account Value will be reduced by the amount you receive plus the amount needed to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge. A withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy other than at the end of a Term also reduces the Investment Base used to calculate the Vested Gain or Loss for the Term. The reduction in the Investment Base for a withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge is proportional to the reduction in the Account Value. See Vested Gains and Losses section above.

**Automatic Withdrawals** 

You may elect to automatically withdraw money from your Contract under any automatic withdrawal program that we offer. Your Account Value must be at least $10,000 in order to make an automatic withdrawal election. The minimum amount of each automatic withdrawal payment is $100. Automatic withdrawals will be taken from the Purchase Payment Account and Strategies of your Contract in the same order as any other withdrawal.

Subject to the terms and conditions of the automatic withdrawal program, you may begin or discontinue automatic withdrawals at any time. You must give us at least 30 days' notice to change any automatic withdrawal instructions that are currently in place. Any request to begin, discontinue or change automatic withdrawals must be a Request in Good Order. We reserve the right to discontinue offering automatic withdrawals at any time.

Currently, we do not charge a fee to participate in an automatic withdrawal program. However, we reserve the right to impose an annual fee in such amount as we may then determine to be reasonable for participation in the automatic withdrawal program. If imposed, the fee will not exceed $30 annually.

Before electing an automatic withdrawal, you should consult with a financial advisor. Automatic withdrawals are similar to starting Annuity Payout Benefit payments, but will result in different taxation of payments and potentially a different amount of total payments over the life of your Contract. Automatic withdrawals will reduce the amount available under the Free Withdrawal Allowance described below. Unless a waiver applies, an Early Withdrawal Charge may apply to an automatic withdrawal during the Early Withdrawal Charge period.

**Exchanges, Transfers, and Rollovers** 

An amount paid on a withdrawal or Surrender may be paid to or for another annuity or tax-qualified account in a tax-free exchange, transfer, or rollover to the extent allowed by federal tax law.

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**Examples—Amount Available for Withdrawal** 

The following examples are intended to help you understand the amount that may be available for withdrawal in different market environments.

**Example G: Amount Available for a Withdrawal When Index Rises** 

This example assumes:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you allocate a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 Growth/-10% Floor Strategy and a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 10% Buffer Strategy;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Contract Effective Date and the Term Start Date are both April 6, 2024;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Maximum Gain for the initial Term of the S&P 500 Growth Strategy is 12% and the S&P 500 Buffer
Strategy is 14%;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you request a $10,000 withdrawal on Day 146 of the Term (August 30, 2024);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you do not take any other withdrawals during the initial Term; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Term End Date is April 6, 2025.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Term Start Date—April 6, 2024** | S&P 500 Growth<br>Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer<br>Strategy |  |
|  Strategy Value | $50000 | $50000 | See Footnote 1 below. |
|  Investment Base | $50000 | $50000 | See Footnote 1 below. |
|  Maximum Gain for Term | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% | See Footnote 2 below. |
|  Index Value | 1900 | 1900 |  |
|  **Withdrawal Date—August 30, 2024** |  |  |  |
|  Index Value | 1976 | 1976 |  |
|  Positive Index Change | 4.00% | 4.00% | See Footnote 3 below. |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 4.00% | 4.00% | See Footnote 4 below. |
|  Vesting Factor on Day 146 | 25% | 25% | See Footnote 5 below. |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 1.00% | 1.00% | See Footnote 6 below. |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $500 | $500 | See Footnote 6 below. |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50500 | $50500 | See Footnote 7 below. |
|  Amount of Withdrawal Requested | $10000 | $10000 |  |
|  Free Withdrawal Allowance | $5000 | $5000 | See Footnote 8 below. |
|  Early Withdrawal Charge | $435 | $435 | See Footnote 9 below. |
|  Total Amount Withdrawn | $10435 | $10435 | See Footnote 10 below. |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | 20.66% | 20.66% | See Footnote 11 below. |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $10330 | $10330 | See Footnote 11 below. |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $39670 | $39670 | See Footnote 12 below. |
|  Strategy Value after Withdrawal | $40065 | $40065 | See Footnote 13 below. |
|  **Term End Date—April 6, 2024** |  |  |  |
|  Index Value | 2033 | 2033 |  |
|  Positive Index Change | 7.00% | 7.00% | See Footnote 14 below. |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 7.00% | 7.00% | See Footnote 15 below. |
|  Vesting Factor at Term End | 100% | 100% | See Footnote 16 below. |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 7.00% | 7.00% | See Footnote 17 below. |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $39670 | $39670 | See Footnote 12 below. |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $2777 | $2777 | See Footnote 17 below. |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $42447 | $42447 | See Footnote 18 below. |

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***Footnote 1.*** On the Term Start Date, the Strategy value is equal to the amount applied to the Strategy on the Term Start Date. The amount applied on the Term Start Date is also the beginning Investment Base.

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***Footnote 2.*** The Maximum Gain is the largest positive Index Change for a Term taken into account to determine the Vested Gain. In this example, the Maximum Gain is 12% (for the Growth Strategy) or 14% (for the Buffer Strategy), which means it will not affect the calculation of Vested Gain unless the Index goes up more than 12% or 14%, respectively.

***Footnote 3.*** The Index Change is equal to the percentage change in the Index Value measured from the Term Start Date to the withdrawal date.

Formula (Index Value on withdrawal date - Index Value on Term Start Date) / Index Value on Term Start Date

Calculation (1976 - 1900) / 1900 = 4.00%

***Footnote 4***. In this example, the Index Change on the withdrawal date is not limited by the Maximum Gain because the Index did not go up more than 12% for the Growth Strategy or 14% for the Buffer Strategy.

***Footnote 5.*** A Vesting Factor limits the portion of a positive Index Change that is taken into account to determine the Vested Gain. The Vesting Factor for a positive Index Change varies depending on the day of the Term. The Vesting Factor for a positive Index Change on any date within the first six months of a Term is 25%. The Vesting Factor for a positive Index Change on any date within the final six months of a Term (but before the Final Market Day of the Term) is 50%. The Vesting Factor for a positive Index Change on the final Market Day of the Term (or any date after that when the Vested Gain for the Term is calculated) is 100%. In this example, the Vesting Factor is 25% because the withdrawal date is a date within the first six months of the Term.

***Footnote 6.*** When there is a positive Index Change, we use the following formulas to calculate the Vested Gain.

Formula Index Change limited by Maximum Gain x Vesting Factor = Vested Gain percentage

Calculation 4.00% x 25% = 1.00%

Formula Remaining Investment Base for the current Term x Vested Gain percentage = Vested Gain in dollars

Calculation $50,000 x 0.0100 = $500

***Footnote 7.*** In this example, there is a Vested Gain on the withdrawal date and you have not taken any withdrawals before that date. This means the Strategy value on the withdrawal date is the Investment Base plus the Vested Gain as of that date.

Formula Investment Base + Vested Gain = Strategy value

Calculation $50,000 + $500 = $50,500

***Footnote 8.*** The Free Withdrawal Allowance (FWA) for the first Contract Year is 10% of the Purchase Payment. The FWA for each subsequent Contract Year is 10% of the Account Value as of the most recent Contract Anniversary.

Formula Purchase Payment x 10% = FWA for first Contract Year

Calculation $50,000 x 0.10 = $5,000

***Footnote 9.*** The Early Withdrawal Charge that would apply to your withdrawal is equal to the amount subject to the charge multiplied by the Early Withdrawal Charge rate (EWC rate). The amount subject to the charge includes the charge itself. The amount subject to the charge does not include the FWA. The EWC rate depends on the Contract Year. In this example, the withdrawal occurs in the first Contract Year, when the EWC rate is 8%. The Early Withdrawal Charge rate declines after each of the first seven Contract Years. There is no Early Withdrawal Charge after Contract Year 7.

Formula [(Requested withdrawal - FWA) x EWC rate] / (1.00 - EWC rate) = Early Withdrawal Charge

Calculation [($10,000 - $5,000) x 0.08] / (1.00 - 0.08) = $5,000 x 0.08 / 0.92 = $400 / 0.92 = $435

***Footnote 10.*** When you request a withdrawal, you receive the amount you requested. If an Early Withdrawal Charge applies, we also withdraw an amount equal to the charge. This means that the total amount withdrawn from your annuity is equal to the amount you requested plus the applicable Early Withdrawal Charge.

Formula Requested withdrawal + Early Withdrawal Charge = total amount withdrawn

Calculation $10,000 + $435 = $10,435

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***Footnote 11.*** When you take a withdrawal, the portion of the Investment Base taken to pay for the withdrawal is proportional to the reduction in the value of the Indexed Strategy due to the withdrawal. If there is a Vested Gain as of the withdrawal date, the reduction in the Investment Base will be less than the total amount withdrawn. This difference occurs because your withdrawal is credited with a proportionate share of the Vested Gain.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Total amount withdrawn / Strategy value before withdrawal = percentage reduction in Strategy value |
| Calculation | $10,435 / $50,500 = 20.66% |

---

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Investment Base before withdrawal x percentage reduction in Strategy value = proportional reduction in Investment Base |
| Calculation | $50,000 x 0.2066 = $10,330 |

---

***Footnote 12.*** On the withdrawal date after the withdrawal, the remaining Investment Base is equal to the Investment Base before the withdrawal minus the proportional reduction in the Investment Base for the withdrawal.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Investment Base before withdrawal - proportional reduction in Investment Base for withdrawal = Investment Base after withdrawal |
| Calculation | $50,000 - $10,330 = $39,670 |

---

***Footnote 13*.** On the withdrawal date, the Strategy value after the withdrawal is equal to Strategy value before the withdrawal minus the total amount withdrawn.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Strategy value before withdrawal - total amount withdrawn = Strategy value after withdrawal |
| Calculation | $50,500 - $10,435 = $40,065 |

---

***Footnote 14.*** The Index Change on the Term End Date is equal to the percentage change in the Index Value measured from the Term Start Date to the Term End Date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | (Index Value on Term End Date - Index Value on Term Start Date) / Index Value on Term Start Date |
| Calculation | (2033 - 1900) / 1900 = 7.00% |

---

***Footnote 15***. In this example, the Index Change on the Term End Date is not limited by the Maximum Gain because the Index did not go up more than 12% for the Growth Strategy or 14% for the Buffer Strategy.

***Footnote 16***. The Vesting Factor for a positive Index Change on the Term End Date is 100%.

***Footnote 17***. When there is a positive Index Change, we use the following formulas to calculate the Vested Gain.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Index Change limited by Maximum Gain x Vesting Factor = Vested Gain percentage |
| Calculation | 7.00% x 100% = 7.00% |

---

***Footnote 18.*** In this example, there is a Vested Gain on the Term End Date and you have taken a $10,000 withdrawal during the Term. This means the Strategy value on that date is the remaining Investment Base on the Term End Date plus the Vested Gain as of that date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base on Term End Date + Vested Gain = Strategy value on Term End Date |
| Calculation | $39,670 + $2,777 = $42,447 |

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**Example H: Amount Available for a Withdrawal When Index Falls** 

This example assumes:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you allocate a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 Growth/-10% Floor Strategy and a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 10% Buffer Strategy;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Contract Effective Date and the Term Start Date are both April 6, 2024;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you request a $10,000 withdrawal on Day 146 of the Term (August 30, 2024);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you do not take any other withdrawals during the initial Term; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Term End Date is April 6, 2025.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Term Start Date—April 6, 2024** | S&P 500 Growth<br>Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |  |
|  Strategy Value | $50000 | $50000 | See Footnote 1 below. |
|  Investment Base | $50000 | $50000 | See Footnote 1 below. |
|  Maximum Loss for Term | Loss of 10% | N/A | See Footnote 2 below. |
|  End of Term Buffer | N/A | 10% Buffer | See Footnote 3 below. |
|  Index Value | 1900 | 1900 |  |
|  **Withdrawal Date—August 30, 2024** |  |  |  |
|  Index Value | 1786 | 1786 |  |
|  Negative Index Change | -6.00% | -6.00% | See Footnote 4 below. |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -6.00% | N/A | See Footnote 5 below. |
|  Buffer on Day 146 | N/A | 4.00% Buffer | See Footnote 6 below. |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -6.00% | -2.00% | See Footnote 7 below. |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | -$3000 | -$1000 | See Footnote 7 below. |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $47000 | $49000 | See Footnote 8 below. |
|  Amount of Withdrawal Requested | $10000 | $10000 |  |
|  Free Withdrawal Allowance | $5000 | $5000 | See Footnote 9 below. |
|  Early Withdrawal Charge | $435 | $435 | See Footnote 10 below. |
|  Total Amount Withdrawn | $10435 | $10435 | See Footnote 11 below. |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | 22.20% | 21.30% | See Footnote 12 below. |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $11100 | $10650 | See Footnote 12 below. |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $38900 | $39350 | See Footnote 13 below. |
|  Strategy Value after Withdrawal | $36565 | $38565 | See Footnote 14 below. |
|  **Term End Date—April 6, 2025** |  |  |  |
|  Index Value | 1748 | 1748 |  |
|  Negative Index Change | -8.00% | -8.00% | See Footnote 15 below. |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -8.00% | N/A | See Footnote 16 below. |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Buffer | N/A | 0.00% | See Footnote 17 below. |
|  Vested Loss Percentage | -8.00% | 0.00% | See Footnote 18 below. |
|  Remaining Investment Base | $38900 | $39350 | See Footnote 13 below. |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | -$3112 | $0 | See Footnote 18 below. |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $35788 | $39350 | See Footnote 19 below. |

---

***Footnote 1.*** On the Term Start Date, the Strategy value is equal to the amount applied to the Strategy on the Term Start Date. The amount applied on the Term Start Date is also the beginning Investment Base.

***Footnote 2.*** The Maximum Loss is the largest negative Index Change for a Term taken into account to determine the Vested Loss for Growth Strategies. In this example, the Maximum Loss is 10%, which means it will not affect the calculation of Vested Loss unless the Index goes down more than 10%.

***Footnote 3.*** The Buffer is the portion of a negative Index Change for a Term that is disregarded when determining a Vested Loss for a Buffer Strategy. The Buffer varies depending on the day of the Term. Once the final Market Day of the Term has been reached, the Buffer is 10%. Before the final Market Day, the Buffer is:

10% x <u>365 – N</u>

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where N is equal to the number of days remaining until the final Market Day of the Term.

***Footnote 4****.* The Index Change is equal to the percentage change in the Index Value measured from the Term Start Date to the withdrawal date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | (Index Value on withdrawal date - Index Value on Term Start Date) / Index Value on Term Start Date |
| Calculation | (1786 - 1900) / 1900 = -6.00% |

---

***Footnote 5***. In this example, the negative Index Change on the withdrawal date is not limited by the Maximum Loss because the Index did not go down more than 10%.

***Footnote 6***. In this example, only a portion of the negative Index Change on the withdrawal date is limited by the Buffer because the Index went down more than 4.00%.

***Footnote 7.***

*Vested Loss – Growth Strategies:* When there is a negative Index Change, we use the following formulas to calculate the Vested Loss for Growth Strategies.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Index Change limited by Maximum Loss = Vested Loss percentage |
| Calculation | -6.00% = -6.00% |
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base for the current Term x Vested Loss percentage = Vested Loss in dollars |
| Calculation | $50,000 x -0.0600 = -$3,000 |

---

*Vested Loss – Buffer Strategies:* When there is a negative Index Change, we use the following formulas to calculate the Vested Loss for Buffer Strategies.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Index Change limited by Buffer = Vested Loss percentage |
| Calculation | -6.00% Index Change - (-4.00%) Buffer = -2.00% |
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base for the current Term x Vested Loss percentage = Vested Loss in dollars |
| Calculation | $50,000 x -0.0200 = -$1,000 |

---

***Footnote 8.*** In this example, there is a Vested Loss on the withdrawal date and you have not taken any withdrawals before that date. This means the Strategy value on the withdrawal date is the Investment Base, minus the Vested Loss as of that date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Investment Base - Vested Loss = Strategy value |
| Calculation | For Growth Strategy: $50,000 - $3,000 = $47,000 |
|  | For Buffer Strategy: $50,000 - $1,000 = $49,000 |

---

***Footnote 9.*** The Free Withdrawal Allowance (FWA) for the first Contract Year is 10% of the Purchase Payment. The FWA for each subsequent Contract Year is 10% of the Account Value as of the most recent Contract Anniversary.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Purchase Payment x 10% = FWA for first Contract Year |
| Calculation | $50,000 x 10% = $5,000 |

---

***Footnote 10.*** The Early Withdrawal Charge that would apply to your withdrawal is equal to the amount subject to the charge multiplied by the Early Withdrawal Charge rate (EWC rate). The amount subject to the charge includes the charge itself. The amount subject to the charge does not include the FWA. The EWC rate depends on the Contract Year. In this example, the withdrawal occurs in the first Contract Year, when the EWC rate is 8%. The Early Withdrawal Charge rate declines after each of the first seven Contract Years. There is no Early Withdrawal Charge after Contract Year 7.

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---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | [(Requested withdrawal - FWA) x EWC rate] / (1.00 - EWC rate) = Early Withdrawal Charge |
| Calculation | [($10,000 - $5,000) x 0.08] / (1.00 - 0.08) = $5,000 x 0.08 / 0.92 = $400 / 0.92 = $435 |

---

***Footnote 11.*** When you request a withdrawal, you receive the amount you requested. If an Early Withdrawal Charge applies, we also withdraw an amount equal to the charge. This means that the total amount withdrawn from your annuity is equal to the amount you requested plus the applicable Early Withdrawal Charge.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Requested withdrawal + Early Withdrawal Charge = total amount withdrawn |
| Calculation | $10,000 + $435 = $10,435 |

---

***Footnote 12.*** When you take a withdrawal, the portion of the Investment Base taken to pay for the withdrawal is proportional to the reduction in the value of the Indexed Strategy due to the withdrawal. If there is a Vested Loss as of the withdrawal date, the reduction in the Investment Base will be more than the total amount withdrawn. This difference occurs because your withdrawal is charged with a proportionate share of the Vested Loss.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | total amount withdrawn / Strategy value before withdrawal = percentage reduction in Strategy value |
| Calculation | For Growth Strategy: $10,435 / $47,000 = 22.20% |
|  | For Buffer Strategy: $10,435 / $49,000 = 21.30% |
| Formula | Investment Base before withdrawal x percentage reduction in Strategy value = proportional reduction in Investment Base |
| Calculation | For Growth Strategy: $50,000 x 0.2220 = $11,100 |
|  | For Buffer Strategy: $50,000 x 0.2130 = $10,650 |

---

***Footnote 13.*** On the withdrawal date, the remaining Investment Based after the withdrawal is equal to the Investment Base before the withdrawal minus the proportional reduction in the Investment Base for the withdrawal.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Investment Base before withdrawal - proportional reduction in Investment Base for withdrawal = Investment Base after withdrawal |
| Calculation | For Growth Strategy: $50,000 - $11,100 = $38,900 |
|  | For Buffer Strategy: $50,000 - $10,650 = $39,350 |

---

***Footnote 14*.** On the withdrawal date, the Strategy value after the withdrawal is equal to the Strategy value before the withdrawal minus the total amount withdrawn.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Strategy value before withdrawal - total amount withdrawn = Strategy value after withdrawal |
| Calculation | For Growth Strategy: $47,000 - $10,435 = $36,565 |
|  | For Buffer Strategy: $49,000 - $10,435 = $38,565 |

---

***Footnote 15.*** The Index Change on the Term End Date is equal to the percentage change in the Index Value measured from the Term Start Date to the Term End Date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | (Index Value on Term End Date - Index Value on Term Start Date) / Index Value on Term Start Date |
| Calculation | (1748 - 1900) / 1900 = -8.00% |

---

***Footnote 16***. For the Growth Strategy, in this example, the negative Index Change on the Term End Date is not limited by the Maximum Loss because the Index did not go down more than 10%.

***Footnote 17***. For the Buffer Strategy, in this example, the entire negative Index Change on the Term End Date is limited by the Buffer because the Index went down less than 10%.

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***Footnote 18****.* 

*Vested Loss – Growth Strategies:* When there is a negative Index Change, we use the following formula to calculate the Vested Loss percentage for Growth Strategies.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Index Change limited by Maximum Loss = Vested Loss percentage |
| Calculation | -8.00% = -8.00% |
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base for the current Term x Vested Loss percentage = Vested Loss in dollars |
| Calculation | $38,899 x -0.0800 = -$3,112 |

---

*Vested Loss – Buffer Strategies:* When there is a negative Index Change, we use the following formula to calculate the Vested Loss percentage for Buffer Strategies.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Index Change limited by Buffer = Vested Loss percentage |
| Calculation | -8% Index Change > -10% Buffer = 0% |
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base for the current Term x Vested Loss percentage = Vested Loss in dollars |
| Calculation | $39,352 x 0.0000 = $0 |

---

***Footnote 19.*** In this example, there is a Vested Loss on the Term End Date for the Growth Strategy and you have taken a $10,000 withdrawal during the Term. This means the Strategy value on that date is the remaining Investment Base on the Term End Date minus the Vested Loss as of that date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base on Term End Date - Vested Loss = Strategy value |
| Calculation | $38,900 - $3,112 = $35,788 |

---

In this example, there is no Vested Loss on the Term End Date for the Buffer Strategy and you have taken a $10,000 withdrawal during the Term. This means the Strategy value on that date is the remaining Investment Base on the Term End Date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base on Term End Date = Strategy value |
| Calculation | $39,350 = $39,350 |

---

**Early Withdrawal Charge** 

We impose an Early Withdrawal Charge to reimburse us for contract sales expenses, including commissions and other distribution, promotion, and acquisition expenses, and to allow us to support higher Declared Rate Strategy interest rates and Indexed Strategy Maximum Gains by investing assets for a longer duration.

The Early Withdrawal Charge applies if, during the first seven Contract Years, you take a withdrawal from your Contract or Surrender it. After that, the Early Withdrawal Charge does not apply.

The Early Withdrawal Charge is equal to the amount that is subject to the charge multiplied by the Early Withdrawal Charge rate.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If you take a withdrawal from your Contract, the amount subject to the charge is the amount you withdraw plus any
amount needed to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If you Surrender your Contract, the amount subject to the charge is your Account Value.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The amount subject to the charge will not include: (1) the Free Withdrawal Allowance; (2) the amount,
if any, that qualifies under the Bailout right; or (3) the amount, if any, that qualifies for another waiver as described below.

The Early Withdrawal Charge rate depends on how long you own your Contract. The rate schedule is set out below.

---

| | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Contract Year | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8+ |
|  Early Withdrawal Charge Rate | 8% | 7% | 6% | 5% | 4% | 3% | 2% | 0% |

---

*Example.* You Surrender your annuity in Contract Year 5 when your Account Value is $100,000. You have already used your Free Withdrawal Allowance for the year and no other exception applies. We take an Early Withdrawal Charge of $4,000 ($100,000 x 0.04) and you receive $96,000.

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*Example.* You take a $10,000 withdrawal from your annuity in Contract Year 5 when your Account Value is $100,000. You have already used your Free Withdrawal Allowance for the year and no other exception applies. We take an Early Withdrawal Charge of $400 ($10,000 x 0.04) and you receive $9,600.

An Early Withdrawal Charge may apply if you take a withdrawal during the first seven Contract Years. That charge will reduce Strategy values, including the value of a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy .

**Free Withdrawal Allowance** 

The Free Withdrawal Allowance lets you withdraw some money from your Contract without the imposition of the Early Withdrawal Charge. For the first Contract Year, the Free Withdrawal Allowance is an amount equal to 10% of the total Purchase Payments received by us. For each subsequent Contract Year, the Free Withdrawal Allowance is equal to 10% of the Account Value as of the most recent Contract Anniversary. The Free Withdrawal Allowance is non-cumulative and you may not carry over any unused portion to other Contract Years.

For qualified annuities, the Free Withdrawal Allowance will be large enough to cover your required minimum distribution to age 93. However, if you have used your Free Withdrawal Allowance to facilitate a transfer or rollover, then an Early Withdrawal Charge may apply to a required minimum distribution.

*Example.* Your Account Value as of the end of Contract Year 3 is $200,000. Your Free Withdrawal Allowance for Contract Year 4 is $20,000 ($200,000 x 0.10). If you take a withdrawal of $50,000 at the beginning of Contract Year 4, the Early Withdrawal Charge will not apply to the first $20,000 of the withdrawal, but will apply to the remaining $30,000 plus the amount needed to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge. If you take another withdrawal later in Contract Year 4, the Early Withdrawal Charge applies to the entire withdrawal plus the amount needed to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge.

**Early Withdrawal Charge Waivers** 

***Bailout Right*.** We will waive the Early Withdrawal Charge on amounts that you withdraw from this Contract at the end of a current Term if the amounts are held under an Indexed Strategy for that Term and either:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Maximum Gain for the next Term of that Strategy is less than its Bailout Trigger for the current Term; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• that Strategy will not be available for the next Term.

Each current Term of an Indexed Strategy has its own Bailout Trigger, even if no funds are held under the Indexed Strategy for that Term. If your Contract has multiple Purchase Payments, the Bailout Trigger for one current Term of an Indexed Strategy may be different from the Bailout Trigger for another current Term of the same Indexed Strategy that started on a different date.

The initial Bailout Trigger for each Indexed Strategy is set out on the Contract Specifications page. It is less than the Maximum Gain that we anticipate setting for the initial Term of that Indexed Strategy.

For each subsequent Term, the Bailout Trigger is the lesser of:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Bailout Trigger for the Term that ended on the date the current Term began; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Maximum Gain set for the current Term.

This means that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• if the Maximum Gain is never set below the Bailout Trigger, then the Bailout Trigger will not change; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• if the Maximum Gain is ever set below the Bailout Trigger, then the Bailout Trigger will be reduced for the new
Term and for each Term that starts on an anniversary of that Term start date.

The Bailout Trigger will never increase from one Term to the next.

*Example.* The Bailout Trigger for the initial Term of an Indexed Strategy is 6.5%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we set the Maximum Gain for the next Term of that Indexed Strategy at 7.5%, then you will not qualify for a
waiver of the Early Withdrawal Charge at the end of the current Term and the Bailout Trigger for that next Term will continue to be 6.5%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we set the Maximum Gain for the next Term of that Indexed Strategy at 5.5%, then you will qualify for a waiver
of the Early Withdrawal Charge at the end of the current Term and the Bailout Trigger for that next Term will change to 5.5%.

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If this waiver will apply to an Indexed Strategy at the end of a Term, we will notify you in writing at least 30 days before that Term ends. You may elect a withdrawal under the Bailout right by a Request in Good Order. We must receive your request before the end of the applicable Term.

This waiver will only apply to the amount held under the Indexed Strategy for the Term that is ending. It will not apply to amounts then held under a different Strategy, or to amounts held under the same Strategy for a Term ending on a different date. You may not carry over any unused part of the waiver from one Term to the next.

**If you withdraw funds that qualify for a waiver under the Bailout right, the withdrawal will reduce the Free Withdrawal Allowance for the applicable Contract Year.** For example, if the amount you withdraw that qualifies for a waiver under the Bailout right in Contract Year 4 is more than 10% of your Account Value as of the most recent Contract Anniversary, then no Free Withdrawal Allowance will be available for subsequent withdrawals in Contract Year 4.

Instead of withdrawing amounts that qualify for a waiver under the Bailout right, you may wish to reallocate those amounts to a different Strategy. A Request in Good Order to reallocate funds must be received by us before the end of the applicable Term.

***Extended Care Waiver*.** (Rider form R1462316NW-Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges for Extended Care Rider). We will waive the Early Withdrawal Charge that would otherwise apply if you make a Request in Good Order and:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• your Contract is modified by the Extended Care Waiver Rider;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you are confined in a long-term care facility or hospital and the confinement is prescribed by a physician and is
medically necessary;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the first day of the confinement is at least one year after the Contract Effective Date; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the confinement has continued for a period of at least 90 consecutive days.

You must provide us with satisfactory proof that you meet these conditions before the date of the withdrawal or Surrender. There is no charge for this rider, but it may not be available in all states. In California, the Extended Care Waiver Rider has been replaced with the Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges for Facility Care or Home Care or Community-Based Services Rider, which provides for a waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges under an expanded variety of circumstances. Please see the rider for details.

***Terminal Illness Waiver*.** (Rider form R1462416NW-Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges Upon Terminal Illness Rider). We will waive the Early Withdrawal Charge that would otherwise apply if you make a Request in Good Order and:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• your Contract is modified by the Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges upon Terminal Illness Rider;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you are diagnosed with a terminal illness by a physician and, as a result of the terminal illness, you have a
life expectancy of less than 12 months from the date of diagnosis; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the diagnosis is rendered by a physician more than one year after the Contract Effective Date.

You must provide us with satisfactory proof that you meet these conditions before the date of the withdrawal or Surrender. There is no charge for this rider, but it may not be available in all states. Please see the rider for details.

**Required Minimum Distributions.** No special waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges exists for required minimum distributions except as may be offered from time to time under an automated payment program.

**State Limitations.** In some states, our ability to waive fees or charges may be limited by applicable laws, regulations or administrative positions. Please see the "State Variations" section below for information on additional state variations.

**Annuity Payout Benefit** 

Under the Contract you may receive regular Annuity Payout Benefit payments for the duration of the period that you select. Once Annuity Payout Benefit payments start, you can no longer Surrender the Contract or take a withdrawal, no Death Benefit will be payable under your Contract, and your Beneficiary designations will no longer apply. The amount payable after death, if any, is governed by the Payout Option you select.

The Annuity Payout Benefit is payable if the Annuity Payout Initiation Date is reached before the earlier of: (1) a death for which a Death Benefit is payable; or (2) the date that this Contract is Surrendered.

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**Annuity Payout Initiation Date** 

The Annuity Payout Initiation Date is the first day of the first payment interval for which payment of the Annuity Payout Benefit is to be made. Annuity Payout Benefit payments are made at the end of each payment interval. This means that for annual payments, the first payment will be made one year after the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.

You may select the Annuity Payout Initiation Date by a Request in Good Order. We must receive your request before the last Market Close on or before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date you selected and at least 30 days before the first Annuity Payout Benefit payment is to be made.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The earliest Annuity Payout Initiation you may select is the first Contract Anniversary.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unless we agree, the latest Annuity Payout Initiation Date you may select is the Contract Anniversary following
your 95th birthday or the 95th birthday, of a joint owner, if earlier. If the Owner is not a human being such as a trust or a corporation, then the Annuity Payout Initiation Date may not be later than the Contract Anniversary following the 95th
birthday of the eldest Annuitant, unless we agree.

The earliest permitted date and the latest permitted date for the Annuity Payout Initiation Date are set out on your Contract Specifications Page. The latest permitted date may change if an Owner changes.

If you do not select an Annuity Payout Initiation Date by the latest permitted date, we may select it for you. We will notify you in writing at least 45 days before the date we select. We will give you an opportunity to select an earlier date.

**Annuity Payout Amount** 

The amount of each payment under the Annuity Payout Benefit is determined on the Annuity Payout Initiation Date based on the Annuity Payout Value on that date, the Payout Option that applies, and the payment interval.

The Annuity Payout Value is the amount that can be applied to the Annuity Payout Benefit is equal to: (1) the Account Value on the Annuity Payout Initiation Date; minus (2) premium tax or other taxes not previously deducted.

**Form of Annuity Payout Benefit** 

The Annuity Payout Benefit is paid in the form of annual payments as a Life Payout with Payments for at Least a Fixed Period. That fixed period will be 10 years or, if fewer, the maximum number of whole years permitted by any tax qualification endorsement.

In place of that, you may elect to have the Annuity Payout Benefit paid in any form of Payout Option that is available under your Contract. The available Payout Options are described in the Payout Options section below. You may elect a Payout Option by a Request in Good Order. We must receive your request before the last Market Close on or before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date and at least 30 days before the first Annuity Payout Benefit payment is to be made.

**Payee for Annuity Payout Benefit** 

Payment of the Annuity Payout Benefit generally is made to the surviving Owner(s) as the payee(s). In place of that, the surviving Owner(s) may elect for payment to be made as a tax-free exchange, transfer, or rollover, or for payment to be made to the Annuitant. That election must be made by a Request in Good Order that we receive at least 30 days before the payment date.

Payments that become due after the death of the payee are made to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the surviving Owner(s); or if none

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• then to the surviving contingent payee(s) designated by the surviving Owner(s); or if none;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the estate of the last payee who received payments.

The portion of any Annuity Payout Benefit remaining after the death of an Owner or Annuitant must be paid at least as rapidly as payments were being made at the time of such death.

You may designate a contingent payee by a Request in Good Order. If you designate your spouse as a contingent payee and your marriage ends before your death, then we will treat your former spouse as having predeceased you except in the following situations: (1) if a court order provides that the former spouse's rights as a contingent payee are to continue; or (2) if the former spouse remains or becomes an Owner.

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**Death Benefit** 

A Death Benefit is payable under your Contract if you die before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date and before the Contract is Surrendered. If your spouse becomes a successor owner of the Contract, no Death Benefit will be payable on account of your death.

When the Owner is a non-natural person, a Death Benefit is payable under the Contract if the Annuitant dies before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date and before the Contract is Surrendered. For this purpose, a non-natural person is a trust, custodial account, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or other entity.

Only one Death Benefit will be paid under the Contract. If a Death Benefit becomes payable, it will be in place of all other benefits under the Contract, and all other rights under this Contract will terminate except for rights related to the Death Benefit.

**Death Benefit Payout Date** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Death Benefit is to be paid as a lump sum, then it will be paid as soon as practicable after the receipt
of proof of death and a Request in Good Order for a lump sum payment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Death Benefit is to be paid under a Payout Option, then we will apply the Death Benefit Value to a Payout
Option as soon as practicable after receipt of proof of death and a Request in Good Order. That application date will be the first day of the first payment interval for which a payment is to be made. Death Benefit payments under a Payout Option are
made at the end of each payment interval. This means that, for annual payments, the first payment will be made one year after that application date.

**Death Benefit Amount** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Death Benefit is paid in a lump sum, then it is equal to the Death Benefit Value, increased by any
additional post- death interest as required by law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Death Benefit will be paid as a series of periodic payments under a Payout Option, then the amount of each
payment under the Death Benefit is determined on the date that the Death Benefit Value is applied to the Payout Option. The amount or each payment will be based on the Death Benefit Value (increased by any additional post-death interest as required
by law to the date it is applied to the Payout Option), the Payout Option that applies, and the payment interval.

*Death Benefit Value* 

The Death Benefit Value is the greater of:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Account Value determined as of the date that the Death Benefit Value is determined; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Purchase Payments, reduced proportionally for all withdrawals, but not including amounts applied to pay Early
Withdrawal Charges (the "Purchase Payment base").

In either case, the Death Benefit Value is reduced by premium tax or other taxes not previously deducted.

The reduction in your Purchase Payment base for withdrawals will be in the same proportion that your Account Value was reduced on the date of the withdrawal. A proportional reduction in your Purchase Payment base could be larger than the dollar amount of your withdrawal.

*Example.* Here is an example of how we calculate a proportional reduction of your Purchase Payment base. In this example, we assume you take an $8,000 withdrawal. To simplify the example, we also assume no Early Withdrawal Charge, no premium tax is deducted, and no additional post-death interest is added.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Before** Withdrawal | **After** Withdrawal | Explanation |
|  Account Value | $100000 | $92000 | Your withdrawal reduces your Account Value by $8,000 (which is an 8% reduction in your Account Value). $8,000 / $100,000 = 8% |
|  Purchase Payment Base<br> for Death Benefit | $120000 | $110400 | After the withdrawal, the Purchase Payment base for the Death Benefit is also reduced by 8% or $9,600. $120,000 x 0.08 = $9,600 |

---

*Determination Date* 

The date that the Death Benefit Value is determined is the earlier of: (1) the first anniversary of the date of death; or (2) the date that we have received both proof of death and Requests in Good Order with instructions as to the form of Death Benefit from all Beneficiaries. Thus, in many cases where there are multiple Beneficiaries, the date that the Death Benefit Value is determined will be the date when the last Beneficiary submits the necessary Request in Good Order or the first anniversary of death. Until then, the Contract values remain in the Crediting Strategies and the Indexed Strategy values may fluctuate. This risk is borne by the Beneficiaries.

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*Proof of Death* 

Before making payment of a Death Benefit, or any other payment or transfer of ownership rights that depends on the death of a specified person, we will require proof of death. We may delay making any payment until it is received. For this purpose, proof of death is:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a certified copy of a death certificate showing the cause and manner of death;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a certified copy of a decree that is made by a court of competent jurisdiction as to the finding of death; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• other proof that is satisfactory to us.

**Form of Death Benefit** 

The Death Benefit is paid in the form of annual payments for a fixed period of two years.

In place of that, you may elect to have the Death Benefit paid in one lump sum or in any form of Payout Option that is available under your Contract. The available Payout Options are described in the Payout Options section below. There is no additional charge associated with this election.

You may make an election by a Request in Good Order. We must receive your request on or before the date of death for which a Death Benefit is payable. If you do not make such an election, the Beneficiary may make that election after the date of death. The Beneficiary's election must be made by a Request in Good Order that is received by us no later than the date that the Death Benefit Value is applied to a Payout Option and at least 30 days before the date of the first payment to be made.

*Additional Rules* 

Any election is subject to the Death Benefit Distribution Rules described below.

A Payout Option that is contingent on life is based on the life of the Beneficiary or, in some cases, the life of a person to whom the Beneficiary is obligated.

We will pay the Death Benefit as a lump sum rather than as payments under a Payout Option if: (1) the Death Benefit is less than $2,000; or (2) as of the date that the Death Benefit Value is to be applied to a Payout Option, the Death Benefit Distribution Rules do not allow a two-year payout.

**Payee of Death Benefit Payments** 

Death Benefit payments generally are made to the Beneficiary as the payee.

In place of that, the Beneficiary may elect to have payments made:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• as a tax-free exchange, transfer, or rollover to or for an annuity or tax-qualified account as permitted by federal tax law; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• in cases where the Beneficiary is an estate, trust, custodial account, corporation, limited liability company,
partnership, or other entity, to a person to whom the Beneficiary is obligated to make corresponding payments.

Payments that become due after the death of the Beneficiary are made to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the contingent payee designated as part of a Death Benefit Payout Option elected by you; or if none

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• then to a contingent payee designated by the Beneficiary; or if none

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the estate of the last payee who received payments.

Such payments are subject to the Death Benefit Distribution Rules described below.

You may designate a contingent payee by a Request in Good Order. A Beneficiary may make or change a payee or contingent payee, except a Beneficiary may not change a designation made as part of a Payout Option election made by you for the Death Benefit. If the Beneficiary designates his or her spouse as a contingent payee and their marriage ends before the Beneficiary's death, then we will treat the former spouse as having predeceased the Beneficiary except to the extent a court order provides that the former spouse's rights as a contingent payee are to continue.

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**Death Benefit Distribution Rules** 

The Death Benefit Distribution Rules are summarized below.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For a Tax Qualified Contract. The Death Benefit must be paid in accordance with the tax qualification
endorsement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For a Nonqualified Contract. The Death Benefit must be paid either: (1) in full within five years of the
date of death; or (2) over the life of the Beneficiary or over a period certain not exceeding the Beneficiary's life expectancy, with payments at least annually, and with the first payment made within one year of the date of death.

**Payout Options** 

The standard Payout Options are described below.

Payments under each standard Payout Option are made at the end of a payment interval. For example, if the Annuity Payout Initiation Date is October 31, 2029 and you select annual payments, then the first payment will be paid as of October 31, 2030.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Option** | **Description for Annuity Payout Benefit** | **Description for Death Benefit** |
| Fixed Period Payout | We will make periodic payments to you, or to the Annuitant, if you direct, for the fixed period of time that you select.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the payee dies **before** the end of the fixed period, then we will make periodic payments to the surviving owner(s), or if none, then to the surviving contingent payee(s), or if none, then to the estate of the last payee who received payments.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• In all cases, payments will stop at the end of the fixed period.<br>For a nonqualified contract, fixed periods shorter than 10 years are not available. For a tax-qualified contract, the only fixed period available is 10 years. | We will make periodic payments to the Beneficiary for the fixed period of time that you or the Beneficiary selects.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Beneficiary dies **before** the end of the fixed period, then we will make periodic payments to the contingent payee designated as part of any Death Benefit Payout Option that you have elected. If no such contingent payee is surviving, then such payments will be made to a contingent payee designated by the Beneficiary. If there is no contingent payee surviving, then such payments will be made to the estate of the last payee who received payments.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• In all cases, payments will stop at the end of the fixed period.<br>The fixed period cannot exceed the life expectancy of the Beneficiary. For a tax-qualified contract, the fixed period also cannot exceed 10 years. |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Option** | **Description for Annuity Payout Benefit** | **Description for Death Benefit** |
| Life Payout | We will make periodic payments to you, or to the Annuitant, if you direct, for as long as the Annuitant lives.<br>Payments will stop on the death of the Annuitant. This means that, even if we have made only one payment when the Annuitant dies, payments will stop.<br>If the Annuitant dies after the Annuity Payout Initiation Date but before the first payment, a Life Payout will not provide any benefit at all. In that case, we will reverse the Annuity Benefit Payout election and treat the Contract as if the Annuity Payout Initiation Date had not yet been reached.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Owner is living, this treatment will generally allow the Owner to choose between continuing the Contract as a deferred annuity or electing a new Annuity Payout Initiation Date and another Payout Option.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Annuitant's death before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date would give rise to a Death Benefit, then the Death Benefit will be available. | We will make periodic payments to the Beneficiary for as long as the Beneficiary lives.<br>Payments will stop on the death of the Beneficiary. This means that, even if we have made only one payment when the Beneficiary dies, payments will stop.<br>If the Beneficiary dies after the Death Benefit is applied to the Payout Option but before the first payment, a Life Payout will not provide any benefit at all. In that case, we will reverse the Payout Option election and allow the Beneficiary's estate to choose a new Payout Option or to take the Death Benefit as a lump sum.<br>For a tax-qualified contract, a Life Payout is not available to all Beneficiaries. |
| Life Payout with Payments for at Least a Fixed Period | We will make periodic payments to you, or to the Annuitant, if you direct, for as long as the Annuitant lives.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Annuitant dies **after** the end of the fixed period you selected, then payments will stop on the death of the Annuitant.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Annuitant dies **before** the end of the fixed period you selected, then we will make periodic payments to the surviving owner(s), or if none, then to the surviving contingent payee(s), or if none, then to the estate of the last payee who received payments. In this case, payments will stop at the end of the fixed period you selected.<br>For a tax-qualified contract, fixed periods longer than 10 years are not available. | We will make periodic payments to the Beneficiary for as long as the Beneficiary lives.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Beneficiary dies **after** the end of the fixed period selected, then payments will stop on the death of the Beneficiary.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Beneficiary dies **before** the end of the fixed period you or the Beneficiary selected, then we will make periodic payments to the contingent payee designated as part of any Death Benefit Payout Option that you have elected. If no such contingent payee is surviving, then such payments will be made to a contingent payee designated by the Beneficiary. If there is no contingent payee surviving, then such payments will be made to the estate of the last payee who received payments. In this case, payments will stop at the end of the fixed period you or the Beneficiary selected.<br>The fixed period cannot exceed the life expectancy of the Beneficiary. For a tax-qualified contract, a Life Payout with Payments for at Least a Fixed Period is not available to all Beneficiaries, and the fixed period also cannot exceed 10 years. |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Option** | **Description for Annuity Payout Benefit** | **Description for Death Benefit** |
| Joint and One-Half Survivor Payout | We will make periodic payments to you, or to the primary Annuitant, if you direct, for as long as the primary Annuitant lives.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the primary Annuitant dies and the secondary Annuitant does **not** survive the primary Annuitant, then payments will stop on the death of the primary Annuitant.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the primary Annuitant dies and the secondary Annuitant is surviving, then we will make one-half of the periodic payment to you, or the secondary Annuitant, if you direct, for the rest of the secondary Annuitant's life. In this case, payments will stop on the death of the secondary Annuitant.<br>This means that, even if we have made only one payment when the primary Annuitant dies, payments will stop unless the secondary Annuitant survives.<br>If the Annuitant dies after the Annuity Payout Initiation Date but before the first payment, a Joint and One-Half Survivor Payout will never provide the full payment amount. In that case, if the secondary Annuitant agrees, we will reverse the Annuity Benefit Payout election and treat the Contract as if the Annuity Payout Initiation Date had not been reached.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Owner is living, this treatment will generally allow the Owner to choose between continuing the Contract as a deferred annuity or electing a new Annuity Payout Initiation Date and another Payout Option.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Annuitant's death before the Annuity Benefit Payout Initiation Date would give rise to a Death Benefit, then the Death Benefit will be available. | We will make periodic payments to the Beneficiary for as long as the Beneficiary lives.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Beneficiary dies and the contingent payee does **not** survive the Beneficiary, then payments will stop on the death of the Beneficiary.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Beneficiary dies and the contingent payee designated as part of the Death Benefit Payout Option election is surviving, then we will make one-half of the periodic payment to the contingent payee for the rest of the contingent payee's life. In this case, payments will stop on the death of the contingent payee.<br>This means that, even if we have made only one payment when the Beneficiary dies, payments will stop unless the contingent payee survives.<br>If the Beneficiary dies after the Death Benefit is applied to the Payout Option but before the first payment, a Joint and One-Half Survivor Payout will never provide the full payment amount. In that case, if the contingent payee agrees, we will reverse the Payout Option election and allow the Beneficiary's estate to choose a new Payout Option or to take the Death Benefit as a lump sum.<br>A Joint and One-Half Survivor Payout is only available to a Beneficiary who is the surviving spouse of the owner. |

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We will make payments in any other form of Payout Option that is acceptable to us at the time of any election. More than one Payout Option may be elected if the requirements for each Payout Option elected are satisfied. All elected Payout Options must comply with pertinent laws and regulations.

Payments under a Payout Option are calculated and paid as fixed dollar payments. The stream of payments is an obligation of the general account of MassMutual Ascend Life. Fixed dollar payments will remain level for the duration of the payment period. Once payments begin under a Payout Option, the Payout Option may not be changed. Once the Contract value is applied to a Payout Option, the periodic payments cannot be accelerated or converted into a lump sum payment unless we agree.

We will use the 2012 Individual Annuity Reserving Table with projection scale G2 for blended lives (60% female/40% male) with interest at 1% per year, compounded annually, to compute all guaranteed Payout Option factors, values, and benefits under the Contract. For purposes of calculating payments based on the age of a person, we will use his or her age as of his or her last birthday.

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**Considerations in Selecting a Payout Option** 

Payments under a Payout Option are affected by various factors, including the length of the payment period, the life expectancy of the person on whose life payments are based, and the frequency of the payment interval (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Generally, the longer the period over which payments are made or the more frequently the payments are made, the
lower the amount of each payment because more payments will be made.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For Life Payout Options, the longer the life expectancy of the Annuitant or Beneficiary, the lower the amount of
each payment because more payments are expected to be paid.

**Non-Human Payees under a Payout Option** 

Except as stated below, the primary payee under a Payout Option must be a human being. All payments during his or her life must be made by check payable to the primary payee or by electronic transfer to a bank account owned by the primary payee.

*Exceptions*.** Below are some exceptions to the general rule that the primary payee must be a human being. We may make other exceptions in our discretion.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A nonhuman that is the Owner of the Contract may be the primary payee. For example, if the Owner is a trust, that
trust may be the primary payee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Payments may be made payable to another insurance company or financial institution as a tax-free exchange, transfer, or rollover to or for another annuity or tax-qualified account as allowed by federal tax law.

**Processing Applications and Requests** 

**Processing Applications and Initial Purchase Payments** 

We will process an application when we have received both the application and the initial Purchase Payment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If that happens on a Market Day before the Market Close, we will process the application and apply the Purchase
Payment on that Market Day.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If that happens on a Market Day after the Market Close or on a day that is not a Market Day, then we will process
the application and apply the Purchase Payment on the next Market Day.

We cannot process your application if it is not a Request in Good Order or if we have not received your initial Purchase Payment. Likewise, we cannot apply your initial Purchase Payment if we have not received your application.

If you have any questions, you should contact us or your registered representative before submitting your application or sending your initial Purchase Payment.

**Processing Additional Purchase Payments** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we receive an additional Purchase Payment on a Market Day before the Market Close, we will apply it on that
Market Day.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we receive an additional Purchase Payment on a Market Day after the Market Close or on a day that is not a
Market Day, then we will apply it on the next Market Day.

We cannot apply an additional Purchase Payment if we do not have complete instructions from you.

If you have any questions, you should contact us or your registered representative before sending an additional Purchase Payment.

**Processing Requests** 

Requests may be made by mail at P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati OH 45201-5423. Request by fax may be made at 800-807-9777.

Requests for reallocations among Strategies may be made by telephone at 1-800-789-6771 between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM Eastern Time Monday through Friday. We may also permit reallocation requests to be made at our website (massmutualascend.com). Some selling firms may restrict the ability of their registered representatives to convey reallocation requests by telephone or Internet on your behalf.

To obtain one of our forms (for example, a Strategy Selection form or a Withdrawal Request form) or to obtain more information about how to make a request, call us at 1-800-789-6771 or send us a fax at 800-807-9777. You can also request forms or information by mail at MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company, P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati OH 45201-5423. You may also obtain forms on our website, <u>www.massmutualascend.com.</u>

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We cannot process a request unless it is a Request in Good Order. A request may be rejected or delayed if it is not a Request in Good Order.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we receive a Request in Good Order on a Market Day before the Market Close, we will process it using values
determined at the Market Close on that Market Day.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we receive a Request in Good Order after the Market Close or on a day that is not a Market Day, then we will
treat that request as received at the start of the next Market Day.

If you have any questions, you should contact us or your registered representative before submitting the request.

*Exception*. If a withdrawal under an automatic withdrawal program is scheduled for a date that is not a Market Day, then we will process the withdrawal on the scheduled date using values at the most recent Market Close. For example, if the automatic withdrawal is scheduled for a date that falls on Sunday and there was a Market Close at 4:00 PM on the previous Friday, then we will process the withdrawal on Sunday using values determined at 4:00 PM on that Friday

**Market Days and Market Close** 

A Market Day is each day that all markets that are used to measure available Indexed Strategies are open for regular trading.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Saturdays, Sundays, holidays and any other day that the New York Stock Exchange and the NYSE Arca are closed are
not Market Days.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The NYSE and the NYSE Arca observe the following holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day,
President's Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

A Market Close is the close of the regular or core trading session on the market used to measure a given Indexed Strategy.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **NYSE** | **NYSE Arca** |
| Regular trading hours usually end at 4:00 PM Eastern Time | Core trading session usually ends at 4:00 PM Eastern Time |
| Trading hours end at 1:00 PM Eastern Time on the day before the Fourth of July and the Friday after Thanksgiving Christmas Eve. | Core trading session ends at 1:00 PM Eastern Time on the day before the Fourth of July and the Friday after Thanksgiving Christmas Eve. |

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Regular trading or a core trading session may end at a different time on a Market Day under certain circumstances when and as permitted under applicable rules. Such circumstances generally cannot be predicted in advance.

Specific information about NYSE and NYSE Arca holidays and trading hours in any given calendar year is available at <u>https://</u><u>www.nyse.com/markets/hours-calendars</u>.

**Receipt of Purchase Payments, Applications and Requests** 

For purposes of processing, we deem Purchase Payments and applications, Requests in Good Order and other instructions (paperwork) mailed to our post office box as received by us at our administrative office when the Purchase Payment or the paperwork reaches the applicable processing department located at 191 Rosa Parks Street, Cincinnati OH 45202.

**Risks and Limitations Related to Requests by Telephone or Internet** 

We will use reasonable procedures such as requiring certain identifying information, tape recording the telephone instructions, and providing written confirmation of the transaction, in order to confirm that instructions communicated by telephone, fax, Internet or other means are genuine. Any telephone, fax or Internet instructions reasonably believed by us to be genuine will be your responsibility, including losses arising from any errors in the communication of instructions. As a result of this policy, you will bear the risk of loss. We are not responsible for the validity of any request or action.

Telephone and computer systems may not always be available. Any telephone or computer system, whether it is yours, your service provider's, your agent's, or ours, can experience outages or slowdowns for a variety of reasons. These outages or slowdowns may delay or prevent our processing of your request. Although we have taken precautions to help our systems handle heavy use, we cannot promise complete reliability under all circumstances. If you experience technical difficulties or problems, you should consider making your request by mail.

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**Suspension of Payments or Transfers** 

We may be required to suspend or delay payments, withdrawals and reallocations when we cannot obtain an Index Value because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the New York Stock Exchange or NYSE Arca is closed (other than customary weekend and holiday closings);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• trading on the New York Stock Exchange or NYSE Arca is restricted;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• an emergency exists such that it is not reasonably practicable to determine fairly the value of the Index; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• we are permitted to do so under a regulatory order.

**Restrictions on Financial Transactions** 

Federal laws designed to counter terrorism and prevent money laundering might, in certain circumstances, require us to block an Owner's ability to make certain transactions. This means that we may be required to refuse to accept any request for withdrawals, Surrenders, Annuity Payout Benefit payments or Death Benefit payments, until instructions are received from the appropriate regulator. We may also be required to provide additional information about you and your Contract to government regulators.

**Right to Cancel (Free Look)** 

If you change your mind about owning the Contract, you can cancel it within 20 days after you receive it. If you purchased this Contract to replace an existing annuity contract or life insurance policy, you have 30 days after you receive it. This is known as a "free look." The right to cancel period may be longer in some states.

To cancel your Contract, you must submit your request to cancel to the producer who sold it or send it to us at P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5423. If sent to us by mail, it is effective on the date postmarked with proper address and postage paid. Your request to cancel must be in writing and signed by you.

When you cancel the Contract within this free look period, we will not assess an Early Withdrawal Charge. Unless otherwise required by state law, you will receive the Account Value of your Contract on the day that we receive your cancellation request. The amount you receive may be more or less than your Purchase Payment(s) depending upon the amount of interest earned by your Contract during the free look period and any Vested Gain or Loss that applies as of the day that we receive your cancellation request. This means that you bear the risk of any decline in the Account Value of your Contract during the free look period. We do not refund any Early Withdrawal Charges assessed during the free look period that relate to a withdrawal taken before you cancel the Contract.

In certain states, we are required to give back your Purchase Payment(s) if you decide to cancel your Contract during the free look period. If we are required by law to refund your Purchase Payment(s), we reserve the right to hold your Purchase Payment(s) in the Purchase Payment Account until the first Strategy Application Date on or after the end of the free look period. In those states, no interest or Vested Gain will be paid.

**Annual Statement and Confirmations** 

At least once each calendar year, we will send you a statement that will show: (1) your Account Value; (2) all transactions regarding your Contract during the year; and (3) the interest credited to your Contract and Vested Gains and Losses credited to your Contract.

We will also send you written confirmations of Purchase Payments, Strategy allocations and renewals, withdrawals, and other financial transactions under your Contract. Statements and confirmations will be sent to your last known address on our records.

You should promptly report any inaccuracy or discrepancy in a statement or confirmation. To report an inaccuracy or discrepancy, contact us at P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5423, or call us at 1-800-789-6771. To protect your rights, you should consider reconfirming any oral communications by sending a written statement to P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5423.

**Electronic Delivery** 

You may elect to receive electronic delivery of the Contract prospectus and other Contract related documents. Contact us at our website at www.massmutualascend.com for more information and to enroll.

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**Abandoned Property Requirements** 

Every state has unclaimed property laws. These laws generally declare annuity contracts to be abandoned after a period of inactivity of three to five years from: (1) the latest permitted Annuity Payout Initiation Date; or (2) the date of death for which a Death Benefit is due and payable. For example, if the payment of a death benefit has been triggered, but the beneficiary does not come forward to claim the death benefit in a timely manner, the unclaimed property laws will apply.

If a Death Benefit, Annuity Payout Benefit payments or other contract proceeds are unclaimed, we will pay them to the abandoned property division or unclaimed property office of the applicable state. (Escheatment is the formal, legal name for this process.) For example, on an unclaimed Death Benefit, depending on the circumstances, the proceeds are paid: (1) to the state where the beneficiary last resided, as shown on our books and records; (2) to the state where the contract owner last resided, as shown on our books and records; or (3) to Ohio, which is our state of domicile. The state will hold the proceeds without interest until a valid claim is made by the person entitled to the proceeds.

To prevent escheatment of the Death Benefit, Annuity Payout Benefit payments, or other proceeds from your Contract, it is important:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• to update your contact information, such as your address, phone number, and email address, if and as it changes;
and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• to update your Beneficiary and other designations, including complete names, complete addresses, phone numbers,
and social security numbers, if and as they change.

Please contact us at P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5423, or call us at 1-800-789-6771, to make such updates.

State unclaimed property laws do not apply to annuity contracts that are held under an employer retirement plan that is subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).

**Owner** 

The Owner on the Contract Effective Date is set out on your Contract Specifications Page. The Owner possesses all of the ownership rights under a Contract, such as making allocations among the Strategies, electing a Payout Option, and designating a Beneficiary.

If an Owner is a trust, custodial account, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or other entity, then the age of the eldest Annuitant is treated as the age of the Owner for all purposes of this Contract.

**Joint Owners** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Nonqualified Contract*** . Two persons may jointly own the Contract. In this case, the term
"Owner" includes the joint Owner and you must exercise all rights of ownership by joint action.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Tax Qualified Contract*** . No joint owner is permitted.

**Change of Owner** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Nonqualified Contract.*** You may change the Owner at any time during your lifetime. A change of
Owner cancels all prior Beneficiary designations. It does not cancel a designation of an Annuitant or a Payout Option election.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Tax Qualified Contract*** . You cannot change the Owner except to the limited extent permitted by
the tax qualification endorsement.

A change of Owner must be made by a Request in Good Order. A change of Owner may have adverse tax consequences.

**Assignment** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Nonqualified Contract*** . You may assign all or any part of your rights under this Contract
except your rights to designate or change a Beneficiary or an Annuitant, to change Owners, or to elect a Payout Option.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Tax Qualified Contract*** . You cannot assign your rights under this Contract except to the
limited extent permitted by the tax qualification endorsement.

An assignment must be made by a Request in Good Order. We are not responsible for the validity of any assignment. An assignment may have adverse tax consequences.

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The rights of a person holding an assignment, including the right to any payment under this Contract, come before the rights of an Owner, Annuitant, Beneficiary, or other payee. An assignment may be ended only the person holding it or as provided by law.

**Successor Owner** 

Your spouse becomes the successor owner of the Contract and succeeds to all rights of ownership if all of the following requirements are met:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a Death Benefit is payable on account of your death;

spouse;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• either you make that election by a Request in Good Order before your death or your spouse makes that election by
a Request in Good Order before the Death Benefit Payment Date; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you were not a successor owner of the Contract.

A successor owner election cancels all prior Beneficiary designations. It does not cancel a designation of an Annuitant or a Payout Option election.

In some states, state law extends this successor owner right to a civil union partner or other person who is not your spouse as defined by federal tax law. In that case, distributions after your death must be made as required by the Death Benefit Distributions Rules described in the Death Benefit section on page [ ].

**Community Property** 

If you live in a community property state and have a spouse at any time while you own this Contract, the laws of that state may vary your ownership rights.

**Annuitant** 

The Annuitant is the natural person on whose life Annuity Payout Benefit payments are based. The Annuitant on the Contract Effective Date is set out on your Contract Specifications Page.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Nonqualified Contract*** . The Annuitant cannot be changed at any time that the Contract is owned
by a trust, custodial account, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or other entity. Otherwise, you may change a designation of Annuitant at any time before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Tax Qualified Contract*** . The Annuitant must be the natural person covered under the retirement
arrangement for whose benefit the Contract is held.

A change of Annuitant must be made by a Request in Good Order. A change of Annuitant does not cancel a designation of a Beneficiary or a Payout Option election.

If an Annuitant dies before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date and no Death Benefit is payable, then in the absence of a new designation, the Annuitant will be:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the surviving joint Annuitant(s); or if none

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Owner(s).

**Beneficiary** 

A Beneficiary is a person entitled to receive all or part of a Death Benefit that is to be paid under this Contract on account of a death before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If a Death Benefit becomes payable on account of your death or the death of a joint Owner, then the surviving
Owner is the Beneficiary no matter what other designation you may have made.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• In all other cases, you may designate a person or person who will be the Beneficiaries as provided in the
Designation of Beneficiary provision of the Contract.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If no designated Beneficiary is surviving, then the Beneficiary is your estate.

your spouse and all other requirements for successor ownership are met, then your spouse may become the successor owner of the Contract in lieu of receiving the Death Benefit.

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A designation of Beneficiary must be made by a Request in Good Order. We must receive the request on or before the date of death for which a Death Benefit is payable.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You may designate two or more persons jointly as the Beneficiaries. Unless you state otherwise, joint
Beneficiaries that are surviving are entitled to equal shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You may designate one or more persons as contingent Beneficiary. Unless you state otherwise, a contingent
Beneficiary is entitled to a benefit only if there is no primary Beneficiary who that is surviving.

**Survivorship Required** 

In order to be entitled to receive a Death Benefit, a Beneficiary must survive for at least 30 days after the death for which the Death Benefit is payable.

If you designate your spouse as a Beneficiary and your marriage ends before your death, we will treat your former spouse as having predeceased you unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a court order provides that the former spouse's rights as a beneficiary are to continue; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the former spouse remains or becomes an Owner.

**Other Contract Provisions** 

**Amendment of the Contract** 

We reserve the right to amend the Contract to comply with applicable Federal or state laws or regulations. We will notify you in writing of any such amendments.

**Misstatement** 

We may require proof of the age of the Annuitant, Owner and/or the Beneficiary before making any payments under the Contract that are measured by such person's life. If the age of the measuring life has been misstated, the amount payable will be the amount that would have been provided at the correct age. If payments based on the correct age would have been higher, we will pay the underpaid amount with interest. If payments would be lower, we may deduct the overpaid amount, with interest, from succeeding payments.

**Involuntary Termination** 

If your Account Value on any anniversary of the initial Strategy Application Date is below the minimum value of $5,000 for any reason, we may terminate your Contract on that anniversary. If your Contract has Terms that end on the same date because you made only one Purchase Payment, any involuntary termination will occur on that date. If your Contract has Terms that end on different dates because you made more than one Purchase Payment, any involuntary termination will occur on one of those dates, which will be the end of one Term but not the end of the other Terms. In this case, the Surrender Value payable upon termination of your Contract will reflect the Vested Gains and Vested Losses used to calculate the values of Indexed Strategies with Terms that are not ending on the termination date.

**Loans** 

Loans are not available under the Contract.

**Previous Notice Methods** 

For contracts issued before May 1, 2019, we will send you a written notice at least 30 days before the end of each Term with the Declared Rate and the Maximum Gains that will apply for the next Term.

**State Variations** 

This prospectus describes the material features of the Contract. Contracts issued in your state may provide different features and benefits from, and impose different costs than, those described in this prospectus because of state law variations. However, please note that the maximum charge is set forth in this prospectus. If you would like to review a copy of the Contract and any endorsements, contact us at P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5423, visit our website at www.massmutualascend.com or call us at 1 -800-789-6771.

The following information is a summary of material state variations as of the date of this prospectus.

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***General***

*For Contracts Issued in Illinois and New Jersey:* References to "spouse" have been changed to "spouse or civil union partner."

***Extended Care Waiver Rider.*** The table below summarizes material state variations related to the rider.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *For Contracts Issued in:* | *Variations in Extended Care Waiver Rider* |
| California | The Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges for Facility Care or Home Care or Community-Based Services Rider (CA Rider) replaces the Extended Care Waiver Rider. The CA Rider provides a waiver under an expanded set of circumstances. The waiver will apply if, at the time of the withdrawal or surrender, or within the immediately preceding 90 days, the following conditions are met: (1) the insured is confined in a facility or is receiving, as prescribed by a physician, registered nurse or licensed social worker, home care or community-based services; (2) the insured's confinement in a facility, the insured's receipt of home care or community-based services, or any combination thereof has continued for a period of at least 90 consecutive days; and (3) the first day of such 90-day period was at least one year after the contract effective date. Facility includes a skilled nursing facility, a convalescent nursing home, or an extended care facility or a residential care facility or a residential care facility for the elderly. Home care or community-based services includes home health care, adult day care, personal care, homemaker services, hospice services and respite care as defined in the rider. Additional conforming changes have been made including revised and new definitions, and inclusion of a description of circumstances under which the waiver does not apply. The termination provision has been modified to reflect that the rider will not terminate if you transfer or assign an interest in the contract to a person or entity other than the insured. |
| Connecticut | The conditions under which the waiver applies have been modified. The waiver will apply if at the time of a withdrawal or surrender or within the immediately preceding 90 days all of the following conditions are met: (1) an insured is confined in a long-term care facility or hospital; and (2) the confinement has continued for a period of at least 90 consecutive days. |
| Kansas | The conditions under which the waiver applies have been modified. The first day of confinement must be at least 90 days after the contract effective date, rather than one year after the contract effective date. |
| Massachusetts and Missouri | This waiver rider in not available in Massachusetts or Missouri. |
| Montana | The definition of medically necessary has been modified and refers to the insured's physician. |
| Nebraska | The definition of skilled nursing facility has been modified by adding a licensed practical nurse to the list of persons who may provide nursing services or supervise the provision of nursing services. |
| New Hampshire | The definition of skilled nursing facility has been modified by changing the phrase "licensed and operated as a skilled nursing facility" to "operated as a skilled nursing facility." |
| Pennsylvania | The conditions under which the waiver is available have been modified. The waiver will apply if at the time of a withdrawal or surrender or within the immediately preceding 90 days all of the following conditions are met: (1) an insured is confined in one or more long-term care facilities, hospital, or a combination of such; (2) the confinement is prescribed by a physician and is medically necessary; (3) the first day of the confinement is at least one year after the contract effective date; and (4) the confinement has continued for a period of at least 90 consecutive days, or has continued for a total of at least 90 days if each successive confinement occurs within six months of the previous confinement and is for the same related medical cause.<br>The definition of long-term care facility has been modified. The following facilities have been deleted from the list of facilities excluded from that definition: a facility that primarily treats drug addicts and a facility that is a home for the mentally ill. An exclusion provision has been added to clarify that the waiver will not apply if the insured is confined in a long-term care facility or hospital for the treatment of certain types of drug addiction or mental illnesses.<br>The definition of hospital has been modified by changing the phrase "it maintains, or has access to, medical, diagnostic, and major surgical facilities" to "it maintains, or has access to, medical and diagnostic facilities." |
| Vermont | The definition of long-term care facility has been modified. The following facilities have been deleted from the list of excluded facilities: a facility that primarily treats drug addicts, a facility that primarily treats alcoholics, and a facility that is a home for the mentally ill.<br>The definition of physician has been modified by changing the phrase "a person who is licensed in the United States as a medical doctor or a doctor of osteopathy and who is practicing within the scope of his or her license" to "a person who is licensed in the United States who is providing medical care and treatment when such services are provided within the scope of his or her license and provided pursuant to applicable law." |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *For Contracts Issued in:* | *Variations in Extended Care Waiver Rider* |
| Washington | The waiver is based on confinement to an extended care facility or hospital rather than a long-term care facility or hospital. Definitions are modified to reflect the new terminology, references to "skilled nursing facility" are changed to "nursing facility" and the related definition is modified. In the definition of nursing facility and hospital, a licensed practical nurse is added to the list of persons who may provide nursing services or supervise the provision of nursing services. |

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***Terminal Illness Waiver Rider.*** The table below summarizes material state variations related to the rider.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *For Contracts Issued in:* | *Variations in Terminal Illness Waiver Rider* |
| Illinois, Kansas, Washington | As a result of the terminal illness, your life expectancy must be 24 months from the date of death, rather than 12 months. |
| Kansas | The diagnosis must be rendered 90 days after the contract effective date, rather than one year after the contract effective date. |
| New Jersey | The requirement related to the timing of the diagnosis does not apply. But the waiver will not be available until at least one year after the contract effective date. |
| Massachusetts | This waiver rider in not available in Massachusetts. |
| Pennsylvania | The diagnosis must be rendered after the contract effective date, rather than one year after the contract effective date. But the waiver will not be available until at least one year after the contract effective date.<br> The waiver is based on a terminal condition as defined in the rider, rather than a terminal illness. |
| Texas | The diagnosis must be rendered on or after the contract effective date, rather than one year after the contract effective date. |

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***Form of Annuity Payout Benefit***

*For Contracts Issued in Texas:* Payments under a Payout Option are subject to a $50 minimum.

***Right to Cancel (Free Look)***

State law governs the length of the free look period and the amount of the refund that you will receive. The table below summarizes the state law provisions.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *For Contracts Issued in:* | *Free Look Period and Refund* | *Replacement Situations:*<br> *Free Look Period and Refund* |
| Alabama, Colorado, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia | 20 days<br> Account Value | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges |
| Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, New Jersey, North Dakota, South Dakota | 20 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges |
| Arkansas, District of Columbia, Pennsylvania | 20 days<br> Account Value | 30 days<br> Account Value |
| Delaware, Indiana, Massachusetts, Tennessee | 20 days<br> Account Value | 30 days<br> Purchase Payments |
| Georgia, Idaho, Missouri, Nevada, Oklahoma, Utah | 20 days<br> Purchase Payments | 30 days<br> Purchase Payments |
| Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas | 20 days<br> Purchase Payments | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges |
| California | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges<br> If owner is age 60 or older, refund amount is Purchase Payments | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges<br> If owner is age 60 or older, refund amount is Purchase Payments |
| Florida | 21 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges |
| Minnesota | 20 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges | 30 days<br> Purchase Payments |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *For Contracts Issued in:* | *Free Look Period and Refund* | *Replacement Situations:*<br> *Free Look Period and Refund* |
| Washington | 20 days<br> Greater of: (1) Purchase Payments or (2) Account Value minus taxes | 30 days<br> Purchase Payments |
| Wisconsin | 30 days<br> Account Value | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges |
| Wyoming | 20 days<br> Account Value | 30 days<br> Greater of: (1) Purchase Payments or (2) Account Value + Fees/Charges |

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***Assignment***

*For Contracts Issued in Ohio:* Subject to the tax qualifications endorsement, if any, you may assign your rights to designate or change a Beneficiary or an Annuitant, to change Owners, or to elect a Payout Option if you make a specific Request in Good Order.

***Amendment of the Contract***

*For Contracts Issued in Florida and Texas:* You have the right to reject an endorsement that changes the provisions of this Contract to obtain or retain the intended tax treatment under federal tax law, or to take into account other pertinent laws and governmental regulations and rulings. We will not be responsible for the tax or other consequences of your rejection.

***Involuntary Termination***

*For Contracts Issued in Texas:* Our right to terminate this Contract is not tied to the minimum required value. We have the right to terminate this Contract if the Account Value would provide a benefit of less than $20 each month at age 70 under a life payout with payments for at least a fixed period of 10 years.

**Index Replacement** 

We may replace an Index if it is discontinued or we are no longer able to use it, its calculation changes substantially, or we determine that hedging instruments are difficult to acquire or the cost of hedging becomes excessive. We may do so at the end of a Term or during a Term. We will notify you in writing at least 30 days before we replace an Index.

We would attempt to choose a replacement Index that is similar to the old Index. To determine if a new Index is similar, we will consider factors such as asset class, Index composition, strategy or methodology inherent to the Index and Index liquidity.

If we replace an Index during a Term, we will calculate Vested Gains and Losses using the old Index up until the replacement date. After the replacement date, we will calculate Vested Gains and Losses using the new Index, but with a modified start of Term value for the new Index. The modified start of Term value for the new Index will reflect the Index Change for the old Index from the start of the Term to the replacement date.

If we replace an Index, the applicable Maximum Gain and Bailout Trigger for the Term, the applicable Maximum Loss or Buffer, and the Vesting Factors will not change.

*Example.* This example is intended to show how we would calculate Vested Gain or Loss on any day during a Term if we have replaced an Index during the Term. This example assumes: (1) you allocate $50,000 to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy; and (2) the replacement is made on day 90 of the Term. To simplify the example, we assume that you take no withdrawals during the Term.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Index Change on Replacement Date for Old Index** |  |
|  Old Index Value at Term Start | 1000 |
|  Old Index Value on Replacement Date | 1050 |
|  Old Index Change on Replacement Date | (1050 - 1000) / 1,000 = 5% |

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The 5% Index Change on the Replacement Date is then used to calculate the modified start of Term value for the new Index.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Modified Start of Term Value for New Index** |  |
|  Old Index Change on Replacement Date | 5% |
|  New Index Value on Replacement Date | 1785 |
|  Modified Start of Term Value for New Index | 1785 / (100% + 5%) = 1700 |

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The modified start of Term value for the new Index is then used to calculate the Strategy value on any date after the replacement date, including the value at the Term end.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Strategy Value at Term End** |  |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 |
|  Modified Start of Term Value for New Index | 1700 |
|  Value of New Index at Term End | 1853 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1853 - 1,700) /1700) = 9% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 8% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 8% |
|  Vesting Factor for Positive Index Change at Term End | 100% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 8% x 100% = 8% |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $50,000 x 8% = $4,000 |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $50,000 + $4,000 = $54,000 |

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**Federal Tax Considerations** 

This section provides a general description of federal income tax considerations relating to the Contracts. The purchase, holding and transfer of a Contract may have federal estate and gift tax consequences in addition to income tax consequences. Estate and gift taxation is not discussed in this prospectus. State taxation will vary, depending on the state in which you reside, and is not discussed in this prospectus.

The tax information provided in this prospectus is not intended or written to be used as legal or tax advice. It is written solely to provide general information related to the sale and holding of the Contracts. You should seek advice on legal or tax questions based on your particular circumstances from an attorney or tax advisor who is not affiliated with MassMutual Ascend Life.

**Tax Deferral on Annuities** 

Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 72 governs taxation of annuities in general. The income earned on a Contract is generally not included in income until it is withdrawn from the Contract. In other words, a Contract is a tax-deferred investment. Tax deferral is not available for a Contract when an Owner is not a natural person unless the Contract is part of a tax-qualified retirement plan or the Owner is a mere agent for a natural person. For a nonqualified deferred compensation plan, this rule means that the employer as Owner of the Contract will generally be taxed currently on any increase in the Surrender Value, although the plan itself may provide a tax deferral to the participating employee.

Under certain circumstances, based on a rule known as the "Investor Control Doctrine," the IRS has stated that the holder of an annuity contract could be treated as the owner (for tax purposes) of the assets of a separate account that supports the annuity contract. If you were treated as the owner of an interest in the separate account, then you would be taxed on the income, gain, and loss arising out of your interest in the separate account. Although the IRS has not provided definitive guidance on the application of this rule to indexed annuity contracts, we do not believe that this rule applies to the Contract because you have no specific, fractional, or unitized interest in the separate account assets, we are not obligated to invest the separate account in any particular assets, the investment return and market value of the separate account assets is not allocated in an identical manner to any Contract, the Contract values are determined based on gains and losses regardless of the performance of the separate account assets, and the derivatives that we may hold in the separate account are not publicly traded.

**Tax-Qualified Retirement Plans** 

Annuities may also qualify for tax-deferred treatment, or serve as a funding vehicle, under tax-qualified retirement plans that are governed by other IRC provisions. These provisions include IRC Section 401 (pension, profit sharing, and 401(k) plans), IRC Section 403(b) (tax-sheltered annuities), IRC Sections 408 and 408A (individual retirement annuities), and IRC Section 457(b) (governmental deferred compensation plans). Tax-deferral is generally also available under these tax-qualified retirement plans through the use of a trust or custodial account without the use of an annuity.

The tax law rules governing tax-qualified retirement plans and the treatment of amounts held and distributed under such plans are complex. If the Contract is to be used in connection with a tax-qualified retirement plan, including an individual retirement annuity ("IRA") under a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) Plan, you should seek competent legal and tax advice regarding the suitability of the Contract for your particular situation.

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Contributions to a tax-qualified Contract are typically made with pre-tax dollars, while contributions to other Contracts are typically made from after-tax dollars, though there are exceptions in either case. Tax-qualified Contracts may also be subject to restrictions on withdrawals that do not apply to other Contracts. These restrictions may be imposed to meet the requirements of the IRC or of an employer plan.

Following is a brief description of the types of tax-qualified retirement plans for which the Contracts are available.

**Individual Retirement Annuities.** IRC Sections 219 and 408 permit certain individuals or their employers to contribute to an individual retirement arrangement known as an "Individual Retirement Annuity" or "IRA". Under applicable limitations, an individual may claim a tax deduction for certain contributions to an IRA. Contributions made to an IRA for an employee under a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) Plan or Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees (SIMPLE) established by an employer are not includable in the gross income of the employee until distributed from the IRA. Distributions from an IRA are taxable to the extent that they represent contributions for which a tax deduction was claimed, contributions made under a SEP plan or SIMPLE, or income earned within the IRA.

**Roth IRAs.** IRC Section 408A permits certain individuals to contribute to a Roth IRA. Contributions to a Roth IRA are not tax deductible. Tax-free distributions of contributions may be made at any time. Distributions of earnings are tax-free following the five-year period beginning with the first year for which a Roth IRA contribution was made if the Owner has attained age 59 1/2, become disabled, or died, or for qualified first-time homebuyer expenses.

**Tax-Sheltered Annuities.** IRC Section 403(b) of permits public schools and charitable, religious, educational, and scientific organizations described in IRC Section 501(c)(3) to establish "tax-sheltered annuity" or "TSA" plans for their employees. TSA contributions and Contract earnings are generally not included in the gross income of the employee until distributed from the TSA. Amounts attributable to contributions made under a salary reduction agreement cannot be distributed until the employee attains age 59 1/2, severs employment, becomes disabled, incurs a hardship, is eligible for a qualified reservist distribution, or dies. The IRC and the plan may impose additional restrictions on distributions.

**Pension, Profit-Sharing, and 401(k) Plans.** IRC Section 401 permits employers to establish various types of retirement plans for employees, and permits self-employed individuals to establish such plans for themselves and their employees. These plans may use annuity contracts to fund plan benefits. Generally, contributions are deductible to the employer in the year made, and contributions and earnings are generally not included in the gross income of the employee until distributed from the plan. The IRC and the plan may impose restrictions on distributions. Purchasers of a Contract for use with such plans should seek competent advice regarding the suitability of the Contract under the particular plan.

**Governmental Eligible Deferred Compensation Plans.** State and local government employers may purchase annuity contracts to fund eligible deferred compensation plans for their employees, as described in IRC Section 457(b). Contributions and earnings are generally not included in the gross income of the employee until the employee receives distributions from the plan. Amounts cannot be distributed until the employee attains age 70 1/2, severs employment, becomes disabled, incurs an unforeseeable emergency, or dies. The plan may impose additional restrictions on distributions.

**Roth TSAs, Roth 401(k)s, and Roth 457(b)s.** IRC Section 402A permits TSA plans, 401(k) plans, and governmental 457(b) plans to allow participating employees to designate some part or all of their future elective contributions as Roth contributions. Roth contributions to a TSA plan, 401(k) plan, or governmental 457(b) plan are included in the employee's taxable income as earned. Amounts attributable to Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) contributions must be held in a separate account from amounts attributable to traditional pre-tax TSA, 401(k), or 457(b) contributions. Distributions from a Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) account are considered to come proportionally from contributions and earnings. Distributions attributable to Roth account contributions are tax-free. Distributions attributable to Roth account earnings are tax-free following the five-year period beginning with the first year for which Roth contributions are made to the plan if the employee has attained age 59 1/2, become disabled, or died. A Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) account is subject to the same distribution restrictions that apply to amounts attributable to traditional pre-tax TSA, 401(k), or 457(b) contributions made under a salary reduction agreement. The plan may impose additional restrictions on distributions.

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**Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans** 

Employers may invest in annuity contracts in connection with unfunded deferred compensation plans for their employees. Such plans may include eligible deferred compensation plans of non-governmental tax-exempt employers, as described in IRC Section 457(b); deferred compensation plans of both governmental and nongovernmental tax-exempt employers that are taxed under IRC Section 457(f) and subject to Section 409A; and nonqualified deferred compensation plans of for-profit employers subject to Section 409A. In most cases, these plans are designed so that amounts credited under the plan will not be includable in the employees' gross income until paid under the plan. In these situations, the annuity contracts are not plan assets and are subject to the claims of the employer's general creditors. Whether or not made from the Contract, plan benefit payments are subject to restrictions imposed by the IRC and the plan.

**Summary of Income Tax Rules** 

The following chart summarizes the basic income tax rules governing tax-qualified retirement plans, nonqualified deferred compensation plans, and other non-tax-qualified Contracts.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Tax-Qualified Contracts and Plans** | **Nonqualified Deferred<br>Compensation Plans** | **Other Non-Tax-Qualified<br>Contracts** |
| Plan Types | • IRC §408 (IRA, SEP, SIMPLE IRA)<br>• IRC §408A (Roth IRA)<br>• IRC §403(b) (Tax-Sheltered Annuity)<br>• IRC §401 (Pension, Profit– Sharing, 401(k))<br>• Governmental IRC §457(b)<br>• IRC §402A (Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b)) | • IRC §409A<br>• Nongovernmental IRC §457(b)<br>• IRC §457(f) | • IRC §72 only |
| Who May Purchase a Contract | Eligible employee, employer, or employer plan. | Employer on behalf of eligible employee. Employer generally loses tax-deferred status of Contract itself. | Anyone. Non-natural person will generally lose tax-deferred status. |
| Contribution Limits | Contributions are limited by IRC and/or plan requirements. | Contributions are limited by IRC and/or plan requirements. | None. |
| Distribution Restrictions | Distributions from Contract and/or plan may be restricted to meet IRC and/or plan requirements. | Distributions from Contract and/or plan may be restricted to meet IRC and/or plan requirements. | None. |
| Taxation of Withdrawals, Surrenders, and Lump Sum Death Benefit | Generally, 100% of distributions must be included in taxable income. However, the portion that represents an after-tax investment is not taxable. Distributions from Roth IRA are deemed to come first from after- tax contributions. Distributions from other plans are generally deemed to come from income and after-tax investment (if any) on a pro-rata basis. Distributions from §408A Roth IRA or §402A Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) are completely tax free if certain requirements are met.<br> For tax purposes, all IRAs and SEP IRAs of an owner are treated as a single IRA, and all Roth IRAs of an owner are treated as a single Roth IRA. | Generally, 100% of distributions must be included in taxable income. However, the portion that represents an after-tax investment is not taxable. Distributions from Roth IRA are deemed to come first from after- tax contributions. Distributions from other plans are generally deemed to come from income and after-tax investment (if any) on a pro-rata basis. Distributions from §408A Roth IRA or §402A Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) are completely tax free if certain requirements are met.<br> For tax purposes, all IRAs and SEP IRAs of an owner are treated as a single IRA, and all Roth IRAs of an owner are treated as a single Roth IRA. | Generally, distributions must be included in taxable income until all accumulated earnings are paid out. Thereafter, distributions are tax-free return of the original investment. However, distributions are tax-free until any investment made before August 14, 1982 is returned.<br>For tax purposes, all non-tax-qualified annuity contracts issued to the same owner by the same insurer in the same calendar year are treated as one contract. |
| Taxation of Payout Option Payments (Annuity Benefit or Death Benefit) | A percentage of each payment is tax free equal to the ratio of after-tax investment (if any) to the total expected payments, and the balance is included in taxable income. Once the after-tax investment has been recovered, the full amount of each benefit payment is included in taxable income. Distributions from a Roth IRA, Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) are completely tax free if certain requirements are met. | A percentage of each payment is tax free equal to the ratio of after-tax investment (if any) to the total expected payments, and the balance is included in taxable income. Once the after-tax investment has been recovered, the full amount of each benefit payment is included in taxable income. Distributions from a Roth IRA, Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) are completely tax free if certain requirements are met. | A percentage of each payment is tax free equal to the ratio of after-tax investment (if any) to the total expected payments, and the balance is included in taxable income. Once the after-tax investment has been recovered, the full amount of each benefit payment is included in taxable income. Distributions from a Roth IRA, Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) are completely tax free if certain requirements are met. |

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Tax-Qualified Contracts and Plans** | **Nonqualified Deferred<br>Compensation Plans** | **Other Non-Tax-Qualified<br>Contracts** |
| Possible Penalty Taxes for Distributions Before Age 59 1/2 | Taxable portion of payments made before age 59 1/2 may be subject to 10% penalty tax (or 25% for a SIMPLE IRA during the first two years of participation). Penalty taxes do not apply to payments after the participant's death, or to §457 plans. Other exceptions may apply. | None. | Taxable portion of payments made before age 59 1/2 may be subject to a 10% penalty tax. Penalty taxes do not apply to payments after the Owner's death. Other exceptions may apply. |
| Assignment/ Transfer of Contract | Assignment and transfer of Ownership generally not permitted. | Assignment and transfer of Ownership generally not permitted. | Generally, deferred earnings taxable to transferor upon transfer or assignment. Gift tax consequences are not discussed herein. |
| Federal Income Tax Withholding | Eligible rollover distributions from §401, §403(b), and governmental §457(b) plans are subject to 20% mandatory withholding on taxable portion unless direct rollover. For other payments, Payee may generally elect to have taxes withheld or not. | Generally subject to wage withholding. | Generally, Payee may elect to have taxes withheld or not. |

---

Rollovers, Transfers, and Exchanges

Amounts from a tax-qualified Contract may be rolled over, transferred, or exchanged into another tax-qualified account or retirement plan as permitted by the IRC and plan(s). Amounts may be rolled over, transferred, or exchanged into a tax-qualified Contract from another tax-qualified account or retirement plan as permitted by the IRC and plan(s). In most cases, such a rollover, transfer, or exchange is not taxable, unless the rollover of pre-tax amounts is made into a Roth IRA, a Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b). Rollovers, transfers, and exchanges are not subject to normal contribution limits. The IRC or plan may require that rollovers be held in a separate Contract from other plan funds.

Amounts from a non-tax-qualified Contract may be transferred to another non-tax-qualified annuity or to a qualified long-term care policy as a tax-free exchange as permitted by the IRC Section 1035. Amounts from another non-tax-qualified annuity or from a life insurance or endowment policy may be transferred to a Contract as a tax-free exchange under IRC Section 1035.

**Required Distributions** 

The Contracts are subject to the required distribution rules of federal tax law. These rules vary based on the tax qualification of the Contract or the plan under which it is issued.

For a tax-qualified Contract other than a Roth IRA, required minimum distributions must generally begin by April 1 following the year the participant attains age 73 (age 72 if born after June 30, 1949, but before January 1, 1951 or age 70 1/2 if born before July 1, 1949). However, for a 403(b) Tax-Sheltered Annuity Plan, a 401 Pension, Profit-Sharing, or 401(k) Plan, or a 457(b) Governmental Deferred Compensation Plan, a participant who is not a 5% owner of the employer may delay required minimum distributions until April 1 following the year in which the participant retires from that employer. The required minimum distributions during life are calculated based on standard life expectancy tables adopted under federal tax law.

For a Roth IRA or for a Contract that is not tax-qualified, there are no required distributions during life.

A tax-qualified Contract must make required distributions after death. The required distributions vary depending on the type of beneficiary. Some beneficiaries may take payments over life or life expectancy, and others must receive all benefits within five or ten years after death. A non-tax-qualified Contract that has begun making payments under a payout option during the Owner's life must make any remaining payments at least as rapidly after death. If payments from a non-tax-qualified Contract have not begun, then the death benefit must be paid out in full within five years after death, or must be paid out in substantially equal payments beginning within one year of death over a period not exceeding the life expectancy of the designated beneficiary.

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For a traditional IRA, a Roth IRA, or a Contract that is not tax-qualified, a beneficiary who is a surviving spouse may elect out of these requirements, and apply the required distribution rules as if the Contract were his or her own. For this purpose, federal tax law recognizes as married any two people whose marriage is valid in the state in which it was celebrated. A civil union or domestic partnership is not considered a marriage.

**Premium and Other Taxes** 

We reserve the right to deduct from the Purchase Payment or Account Value any taxes relating to the Contract paid by us to any government entity (including, but not limited to, premium taxes, additional taxes, and maintenance taxes on insurers, Federal, state and local withholding of income, estate, inheritance, or other taxes required by law from annuity purchase payments, and any new or increased taxes on insurers or annuity purchase payments that may be enacted into law).

Currently some state governments impose premium taxes, additional taxes, and maintenance taxes on insurers based on annuity purchase payments received or applied to an annuity payout benefit. These taxes currently range from zero to 3.5% depending upon the jurisdiction and the tax qualification of the Contract. A federal premium tax has been proposed but not enacted. We may deduct any such premium or other taxes from the Purchase Payments or the Account Value at the time that the tax is imposed. We may also deduct any such tax not previously deducted from the Annuity Payout Value or Death Benefit Value.

We reserve the right to deduct from the Contract for any income taxes that we incur because of the Contract. At the present time, however, we are not incurring any such income tax or making any such deductions.

**Distribution of the Contracts** 

MM Ascend Life Investor Services, LLC ("MMALIS") is the principal underwriter and distributor of the securities offered through this prospectus. MMALIC and MMALIS are affiliated because MMALIS is a subsidiary of MMALIC. MMALIS also acts as the principal underwriter and distributor of the variable annuity contracts that are issued by one of our subsidiaries.

MMALIS' principal executive offices are located at 191 Rosa Parks Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. MMALIS is registered as a broker- dealer with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as well as the securities regulators in the states in which it operates and registration is required. MMALIS is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA").

Contracts are sold by licensed insurance agents (the "Selling Agents") in those states where the Contract may be lawfully sold. Such Selling Agents will be appointed agents of MMALIC and will be registered representatives of broker-dealer firms (the "Selling Broker-Dealers") that have entered into selling agreements with us and MMALIS. Selling Broker-Dealers will be registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and will be members of FINRA.

FINRA provides background information about broker-dealers and their registered representatives through FINRA BrokerCheck. You may contact the FINRA BrokerCheck Hotline at 1-800-289-9999, or log on to www.finra.org to learn more about MMALIS, your Selling Agent, and his or her Selling Broker Dealer.

MMALIS receives no compensation for acting as underwriter of the Contracts; however, MMALIC pays for some of MMALIS' operating and other expenses, including overhead and legal and accounting fees. MMALIC may reimburse MMALIS for certain sales expenses, such as marketing materials and advertising expenses, and other expenses of distributing the Contracts.

MMALIC or MMALIS pay the Selling Broker-Dealers compensation for the promotion and sale of the Contract. The Selling Agents who solicit sales of the Contract typically receive a portion of the compensation paid to the Selling Broker-Dealers in the form of commissions or other compensation, depending on the agreement between the Selling Broker-Dealer and the Selling Agent.

The amount and timing of commissions paid to Selling Broker-Dealers may vary depending on the selling agreement but is not expected to be more than 9.2% of each Purchase Payment. In most cases, such amounts paid to a Selling Broker-Dealer will be divided between the Selling Agent and the Selling Broker-Dealer. Some Selling Broker-Dealers may elect to receive a lower commission when a Purchase Payment is made, along with annual trail commissions up to 1.5% of Account Value for so long as a contract remains in effect or as agreed in the selling agreement. MMALIC may pay or allow other promotional incentives or payments in the form of cash or other compensation to the extent permitted by FINRA rules and other applicable laws and regulations.

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MMALIC also may pay compensation to wholesaling broker-dealers or other firms or intermediaries in return for wholesaling services such as providing marketing and sales support, product training, and administrative services to the Selling Agents of the Selling Broker-Dealers. These allowances may be based on a percentage of a Purchase Payment.

In addition to the compensation described above, MMALIC may make additional cash payments, in certain circumstances referred to as "override" compensations, or reimbursements to Selling Broker-Dealers in recognition of their marketing and distribution, transaction processing and/or administrative services support. These payments are not offered to all Selling Broker-Dealers, and the terms of any particular agreement governing the payments may vary among Selling Broker-Dealers depending on, among other things, the level and type of marketing and distribution support provided. Marketing and distribution support services may include, among other services, placement of MMALIC's products on the Selling Broker-Dealers' preferred or recommended list, increased access to the Selling Broker-Dealers' registered representatives for purposes of promoting sales of MMALIC products, assistance in training and education of the Selling Agents, and opportunities for MMALIC and MMALIS to participate in sales conferences and educational seminars. The payments or reimbursements may be calculated as a percentage of the particular Selling Broker-Dealer's actual or expected aggregate sales of our indexed annuity contracts (including the Contract) and/or may be a fixed dollar amount. Broker-dealers receiving these additional payments may pass on some or all of the payments to the Selling Agents.

You should ask your Selling Agent for further information about the commissions or other compensation that he or she, or the Selling Broker-Dealer for which he or she works, may receive in connection with your purchase of a Contract.

There is no front-end sales load deducted from the Purchase Payment(s) to pay sales commissions. Commissions and other incentives or payments described above are not charged directly to you. We intend to recoup at least a portion of the sales commissions and other sales expenses through fees and charges deducted under the Contract.

**MassMutual Ascend Life's General Account** 

Our general account (the "General Account") holds all our assets other than assets in our insulated separate accounts. We own our General Account assets, and, subject to applicable law, have sole investment discretion over them. The assets are subject to our general business operation liabilities and claims of our creditors and may lose value. Our General Account assets fund the guarantees provided in the Contracts.

We must invest our assets according to applicable state laws regarding the nature, quality and diversification of investments that may be made by life insurance companies. In general, these laws permit investments, within specified limits and subject to certain qualifications, in Federal, state and municipal obligations, corporate bonds, preferred and common stocks, real estate mortgages, real estate and certain other investments.

We place a majority of the Purchase Payments made under the Contract in our General Account where we primarily invest the assets in a variety of fixed income securities.

We place a portion of the Purchase Payments made under the Contract in a non-unitized separate account (the "Separate Account") that is not registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We established and maintain the Separate Account pursuant to the laws of our domiciliary state for the purpose of supporting our obligation to adjust Indexed Strategy values for Vested Gains and Losses associated with the Indexed Strategies. The assets of the Separate Account are held in our name on behalf of the Separate Account and legally belong to us. The assets in the Separate Account are not chargeable with liabilities arising out of any other business that we conduct. We may invest these assets in hedging instruments, including derivative contracts as well as other assets permitted under state law. To support our obligations to adjust Indexed Strategy values for Vested Gains and Losses associated with the Indexed Strategies, we may move money between the Separate Account and our General Account.

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Contract owners do not have any interest in or claim on the assets in the Separate Account nor do Contract owners participate in any way in the performance of assets held in the Separate Account.

**Legal Matters** 

**Reliance on Rule 12h-7** 

MassMutual Ascend Life relies on the exemption provided by Rule 12h-7 under the Securities Exchange Act of the 1934 Act from the requirement to file reports pursuant to Section 15(d) of that Act.

**Legal Proceedings** 

MassMutual Ascend Life and its subsidiaries are involved in litigation from time to time, generally arising in the ordinary course of business. This litigation may include, but is not limited to, general commercial disputes, lawsuits brought by contract owners and policyholders, employment matters, reinsurance collection matters and actions challenging certain business practices of insurance subsidiaries. Also, from time to time, state and federal regulators or other officials conduct formal and informal examinations or undertake other actions dealing with various aspects of the financial services and insurance industries. It is not possible to predict with certainty the ultimate outcome of any pending legal proceeding or regulatory action. However, MassMutual Ascend Life does not believe any such action or proceeding will have a material adverse effect upon its ability to meet its obligations under the Contracts.

**Legal Opinion on Contracts** 

Legal matters in connection with federal laws and regulations affecting the issue and sale of the Contracts described in this prospectus and the organization of MassMutual Ascend Life, its authority to issue such Contracts under Ohio law, and the validity of the forms of the Contracts under Ohio law have been passed on by John P. Gruber, General Counsel of MassMutual Ascend Life.

**Securities and Exchange Commission Position on Indemnification** 

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling MassMutual Ascend Life pursuant to its articles of incorporation or its code of regulations or pursuant to any insurance coverage or otherwise, MassMutual Ascend Life has been informed that, in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and is therefore unenforceable.

**Experts** 

The statutory financial statements and financial statement schedules of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company as of December 31, 2022, and for the year then ended, have been included herein in reliance upon the report of [ ], independent registered public accounting firm, appearing elsewhere herein, and upon the authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

The [ ] report dated [ ], 2023 of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company includes explanatory language that states that the financial statements are prepared by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company using statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Ohio Department of Insurance, which is a basis of accounting other than U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Accordingly, the [ ] audit report states that the financial statements are not presented fairly in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and further states that those statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, in accordance with statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Ohio Department of Insurance.

The statutory-basis financial statements of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company as of December 31, 2020 and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2020, appearing in this Prospectus and Registration Statement have been audited by [ ], [address], independent auditors, as set forth in their report included thereon. These statutory-basis financial statements are included in this registration statement in reliance on the report of [ ] given on the authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

The [ ] report dated May 14, 2021 of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company includes explanatory language that states that the financial statements are prepared by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company using statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Ohio Department of Insurance, which is a basis of accounting other than U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Accordingly, the [ ] audit report states that the financial statements are not presented fairly in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and further states that those statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, in accordance with statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Ohio Department of Insurance.

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**The Registration Statement** 

We filed a Registration Statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933 relating to the Contracts offered by this prospectus. This prospectus was filed as a part of the Registration Statement, but it does not constitute the complete Registration Statement. The Registration Statement contains further information relating to the Company and the Contracts. The Registration Statement and the exhibits thereto may be inspected and copied at the office of the Securities and Exchange Commission, located at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C., and may also be accessed at www.sec.gov. The Securities and Exchange Commission file number for the Contract is 333-[ ].

Statements in this prospectus discussing the content of the Contracts and other legal instruments are summaries. The actual documents are filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement. For a complete statement of the terms of the Contracts or any other legal document, refer to the appropriate exhibit to the Registration Statement

**SECTION II** 

**MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE INFORMATION** 

[to be added by amendment]

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**MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY** 

Administrative Office: P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati OH 45201-5423

Street Address: 191 Rosa Parks Street, Cincinnati OH 45202

Policy Administration: 1-800-789-6771

**INDEX FRONTIER<sup>®</sup> 5 ANNUITY** 

**PROSPECTUS Dated [ ], 2023** 

The Index Frontier**<sup>®</sup>** 5 annuity is an Individual Index-linked Modified Single Premium Deferred Annuity (the "Contract") issued by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company<sup>®</sup> ("MassMutual Ascend Life," "we" or "us"). It provides that we will pay annuity payout benefits to you in exchange for your purchase payments. The Contract offers you the opportunity to allocate funds to indexed strategies for one-year periods (a "Term") and a declared rate strategy (together with the indexed strategies, the "Crediting Strategies"). Indexed strategies provide returns based, in part, on the change in the value of a market index or the share price of an exchange-traded fund (an "Index"). The returns of an Index do not include reinvestment of any dividends.

**The Contract is a modified single premium deferred annuity. This means we will accept Purchase Payments only during the purchase payment period, which ends two months after the Contract Effective Date.** 

A glossary of defined terms used herein can be found in the Special Terms section starting on page 5 of this prospectus.

The Contract currently offers four Conserve Strategies, four Growth Strategies, and one Buffer Strategy.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Conserve/0% Floor Strategies** | **Index** | **Maximum Loss/Floor of 0% Per Term** |
| S&P 500 0% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| SPDR Gold Shares 0% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares U.S. Real Estate 0% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares MSCI EAFE 0% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| **Growth/-10% Floor Strategies** | **Index** | **Maximum Loss/Floor of 10% Per Term** |
| S&P 500 -10% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| SPDR Gold Shares -10% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares U.S. Real Estate -10% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| iShares MSCI EAFE -10% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| **10% Buffer Strategy** | **Index** | **End of Term Buffer of 10% Per Term** |
| S&P 500 10% Buffer | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Buffer Strategy, at the end of the Term you can lose up to 90% of that money due to a negative change in the Index. At the end of the Term, 10% of the money you allocated is protected from loss. You can lose more than 90% of that money if you withdraw it before the end of the Term. |

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At the end of a Term, we may stop offering any particular Indexed Strategy, but we will always offer at least one Indexed Strategy. Consequently, any Indexed Strategy listed above may not be available after the end of the initial Term. Indexed Strategies that may be available in the future may earn a return that is lower than the return your investments would have earned if they had been invested in the other Indexed Strategies listed above. In addition, if we reduce the available number of Index Strategies to just one Indexed Strategy, your ability to increase your Account Value could be significantly reduced.

In general, we will set a higher Maximum Gain for a Growth Strategy than the Maximum Gain for a Conserve Strategy that uses the same Index, and we will set a higher Maximum Gain for the Buffer Strategy than for the Growth Strategy that uses the same Index.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of an indexed strategy will increase if there is a positive change in the applicable Index value during
a Term. Any increase during a Term is subject to an upper limit called the Maximum Gain. At least 10 days before a Term starts, we will post the Maximum Gain that will apply to an Indexed Strategy for that Term on our website. We can change the
Maximum Gain for each new Term of an indexed strategy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Before the end of a Term, any increase in the value of an indexed strategy is also subject to a vesting factor.
The vesting factor limits the portion of the positive change in the Index that we take into account when we calculate the increase in the strategy value. The vesting factor varies depending on the day of the Term. It is 25% for any date within the
first half of a Term, 50% for any date within the second half of a Term, and 100% at the end of a Term.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy will not decrease even if there is a negative change in the applicable
Index value during a Term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy will decrease if there is a
negative change in the applicable Index value during a Term. Any decrease during a Term for a Growth Strategy is subject to a lower limit called the Maximum Loss. The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Growth Strategy is 10%. **Each Growth Strategy includes a risk of potential loss of up to 10% of principal and any prior earnings each Term.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a 10% Buffer Strategy will decrease if there is a negative change in the applicable Index Value that
is larger than the Buffer during a Term. The Buffer is the portion of a negative Index Change for a Term that is disregarded when calculating Buffer Strategy losses. The Buffer varies depending on the day of the Term. The Buffer at the end of a Term
is 10%. Before the end of the Term, the Buffer is calculated daily as a prorated share of the annual 10% Buffer. **Each Buffer Strategy includes a risk of potential loss of principal and any prior earnings. At maximum, the Buffer protects 10% of principal and any prior earnings from loss each Term.** 

<u>Note: The S&P 500 Buffer strategy is not available for Contracts issued prior to May 2020.</u> 

The Contract also offers a declared rate strategy, which earns interest during a Term at a fixed rate we set before that Term begins. The fixed interest rate varies from Term to Term, but will never be less than 1%. <u>Note: The declared rate strategy is not available for Contracts issued in Missouri.</u>

**The Contract is intended for long-term investment purposes and may not be appropriate for investors who plan to take withdrawals (including systematic withdrawals and required minimum distributions) during the first five contract years.** An early withdrawal charge may apply if you take a withdrawal or Surrender the Contract during the first five contract years. That charge will reduce strategy values, including the value of a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy. The early withdrawal charge is 8% for withdrawals and Surrenders of the Contract in the first contract year, and falls each contract year during the five-year period. Withdrawals and surrenders may also be subject to income tax, and withdrawals and surrenders before age 59<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub> may also be subject to an additional 10% penalty tax.

**Risk Factors for this Contract appear on pages 12-16 and pages A6-A10.** Indexed annuity contracts are complex insurance and investment vehicles. You should speak with a financial advisor about the Index Frontier 5 and its features, benefits, risks, and fees, and whether the Contract is appropriate for you based upon your financial situation and objectives.

Please read this prospectus before investing and keep it for future reference. It contains important information about your annuity and MassMutual Ascend Life that you ought to know before investing. It describes all material rights and obligations under the Contract including material state variations.

**\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*** 

**NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **The Contract is not insured by the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) or the NCUSIF (National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund).** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **Although the Contract may be sold through relationships with banks or other financial institutions, the Contract is not a deposit or obligation of, or guaranteed by, such institutions or any federal regulatory agency.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **The Contract is a security. It involves investment risk and may lose value. There is a risk of loss of principal under the Contract and that loss can become greater due to Early Withdrawal Charges.** 

**All guarantees under the Contract are the obligations of MassMutual Ascend Life and are subject to the credit worthiness and claims-paying ability of MassMutual Ascend Life.** 

The Contract doesn't invest in any equity, debt or other investments. If you buy this Contract, you aren't investing directly in an Index, the stocks included in an Index, or the underlying investments or other assets held by an Index.

The "S&P 500 Index" is a product of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC or its affiliates ("SPDJI") and has been licensed for use by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company. S&P<sup>®</sup>, S&P 500<sup>®</sup>, US 500, The 500, iBoxx<sup>®</sup>, iTraxx<sup>®</sup> and CDX<sup>®</sup> are trademarks of S&P Global, Inc. or its affiliates ("S&P"); Dow Jones<sup>®</sup> is a registered trademark of Dow Jones Trademark Holdings LLC ("Dow Jones"); MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company's Products is not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by SPDJI, Dow Jones, S&P, their respective affiliates, and none of such parties make any representation regarding the advisability of investing in such product(s) nor do they have any liability for any errors, omissions, or interruptions of the S&P 500 Index.

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The iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF and the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF are distributed by BlackRock Investments, LLC. iShares<sup>®</sup>, BLACKROCK<sup>®</sup>, and the corresponding logos are registered and unregistered trademarks of BlackRock, Inc. and its affiliates ("BlackRock"), and these trademarks have been licensed for certain purposes by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company. MassMutual Ascend Life annuity products are not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by BlackRock, and purchasers of an annuity from MassMutual Ascend Life do not acquire any interest in the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF or the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF nor enter into any relationship of any kind with BlackRock. BlackRock makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, to the owners of any MassMutual Ascend Life annuity product or any member of the public regarding the advisability of purchasing an annuity, nor does it have any liability for any errors, omissions, interruptions or use of the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF or the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF or any data related thereto.

**\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*** 

The principal underwriter of the Contract is MM Ascend Life Investor Services, LLC. The offering of the Contract is intended to be continuous. The underwriter will use its best efforts to sell the Contract.

This prospectus is not an offering in any state, country, or jurisdiction in which we are not authorized to sell the Contract.

If you purchase a Contract, you may cancel it within 20 days after you receive it. If you purchase a Contract to replace an existing annuity contract or insurance policy, you have 30 days to cancel the Contract. The right to cancel period may be longer in some states. In many states, you will bear the risk of investment gain or loss before cancellation. The right to cancel is described more fully in the Right to Cancel section of this prospectus.

Our form number for the Contract is P1822217NW. Our form numbers for the strategy endorsements to the Contract are E1322417NW, E1322517NW, E1322617NW, E1322717NW, E1322817NW, E1322917NW, E1323017NW, E1829620NW, E1829720NW, and E1829820NW. The form numbers may vary by state. The Securities and Exchange Commission file number for the Contract is 333-[ ].

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**Table of Contents** 

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  [INDEX FRONTIER<sup>®</sup> 5 ANNUITY INFORMATION](#txb473116_1) | 5 |
|  [Special Terms](#txb473116_2) | 5 |
|  [Summary](#txb473116_3) | 8 |
|  [Risk Factors](#txb473116_4) | 13 |
|  [Purchase](#txb473116_5) | 17 |
|  [Initial Strategy Selections](#txb473116_6) | 19 |
|  [Declared Rate Strategy](#txb473116_7) | 19 |
|  [Indexed Strategies](#txb473116_8) | 20 |
|  [Vested Gains and Losses](#txb473116_9) | 23 |
|  [Asymmetrical Impact of Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategies Using the Same Index](#txb473116_10) | 27 |
|  [Examples—Impact of Withdrawals on Indexed Strategy Values](#txb473116_11) | 29 |
|  [Strategy Renewals and Reallocations at Term End](#txb473116_12) | 41 |
|  [Cash Benefit](#txb473116_13) | 42 |
|  [Examples - Amount Available for Withdrawal](#txb473116_14) | 44 |
|  [Early Withdrawal Charge](#txb473116_15) | 50 |
|  [Annuity Payout Benefit](#txb473116_16) | 52 |
|  [Death Benefit](#txb473116_17) | 54 |
|  [Payout Options](#txb473116_18) | 56 |
|  [Processing Applications and Requests](#txb473116_19) | 59 |
|  [Right to Cancel (Free Look)](#txb473116_20) | 61 |
|  [Annual Statement and Confirmations](#txb473116_21) | 61 |
|  [Electronic Delivery](#txb473116_22) | 61 |
|  [Abandoned Property Requirements](#txb473116_23) | 62 |
|  [Owner](#txb473116_24) | 62 |
|  [Annuitant](#txb473116_25) | 63 |
|  [Beneficiary](#txb473116_26) | 63 |
|  [Other Contract Provisions](#txb473116_27) | 64 |
|  [Previous Notice Methods](#txb473116_28) | 64 |
|  [State Variations](#txb473116_29) | 64 |
|  [Index Replacement](#txb473116_30) | 67 |
|  [Federal Tax Considerations](#txb473116_31) | 68 |
|  [Premium and Other Taxes](#txb473116_32) | 72 |
|  [Distribution of the Contracts](#txb473116_33) | 72 |
|  [MassMutual Ascend Life's General Account](#txb473116_34) | 73 |
|  [Legal Matters](#txb473116_35) | 74 |
|  [Experts](#txb473116_36) | 74 |
|  [The Registration Statement](#txb473116_37) | 75 |
|  [MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE INFORMATION](#txb473116_38) | A-75 |

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**INDEX FRONTIER<sup>®</sup> 5 ANNUITY INFORMATION** 

**Special Terms** 

In this prospectus, the following capitalized terms have the meanings set out below.

ACCOUNT VALUE. The sum of the values of each Crediting Strategy, plus the value of the Purchase Payment Account, if any.

ANNUITANT. The natural person or persons on whose life Annuity Payout Benefit is based.

ANNUITY PAYOUT BENEFIT. A series of periodic payments made under a Payout Option. The terms and conditions are described in the Annuity Payout Benefit section of this prospectus.

ANNUITY PAYOUT INITIATION DATE. The first day of the first payment interval for which payment of an Annuity Payout Benefit is to be made.

BAILOUT TRIGGER. The Maximum Gain for the next Term of an Indexed Strategy that triggers a waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges under the Bailout right of an Indexed Strategy.

BENEFICIARY. A person entitled to receive all or part of a Death Benefit that is to be paid under the Contract on account of a death before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.

BUFFER. The portion of a negative Index Change for a Term that is disregarded when determining a Vested Loss for a Buffer Strategy. The Buffer varies depending on the day of the Term. Once the final Market Day of the Term has been reached, the Buffer is 10%. Before the final Market Day, the Buffer is equal to: 10% x ((365 – N) / 365), where N is equal to the number of days remaining until the final Market Day of the Term.

CONTRACT. The legally binding agreement between you and MassMutual Ascend Life, including applicable endorsements and riders.

CONTRACT ANNIVERSARY. The date in each year that is the annual anniversary of the Contract Effective Date. That date is set out on your Contract Specifications Page.

CONTRACT EFFECTIVE DATE. The date as of which the initial Purchase Payment is applied to the Contract. That date is set out on your Contract Specifications Page.

CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS PAGE. The page in your Contract that contains details unique to your Contract.

CONTRACT YEAR. A 12-month period that starts on the Contract Effective Date or on a Contract Anniversary.

CREDITING STRATEGY. A specified method by which interest or gain or loss is calculated for a Term. The Crediting Strategies that are currently available are set out on the first page of this prospectus.

DEATH BENEFIT. An amount that becomes payable if you die before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date and before the date that the Contract is Surrendered. The terms and conditions are described in the Death Benefit section of this prospectus.

DECLARED RATE. A fixed interest rate set by us for a Term of the Declared Rate Strategy.

DECLARED RATE STRATEGY. A Crediting Strategy that credits interest at a Declared Rate.

EARLY WITHDRAWAL CHARGE. A charge deducted from the Account Value of your Contract if, during the first five Contract Years, you Surrender your Contract or you take a withdrawal in excess of the Free Withdrawal Allowance (including systematic withdrawals and required minimum distributions). The Early Withdrawal Charge does not apply to a withdrawal that qualifies for the Free Withdrawal Allowance or the amount, if any, that qualifies for another waiver. The Early Withdrawal Charge does not apply to an Annuity Payout Benefit or Death Benefit.

FREE WITHDRAWAL ALLOWANCE. The total amount that may be taken as a withdrawal or Surrendered during a Contract Year without an Early Withdrawal Charge that would otherwise apply. This amount is described in the Free Withdrawal Allowance section of this prospectus. Like any other withdrawal, an amount withdrawn that is covered by the Free Withdrawal Allowance will reduce the value of an Indexed Strategy on a dollar-for dollar basis, and will proportionally reduce the Investment Base of a Strategy.

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INDEX. A stock market index or an exchange-traded fund.

INDEX CHANGE. The increase or decrease, if any, in the applicable Index Value over a Term of an Indexed Strategy.

INDEX VALUE. For Indexed Strategies that use the S&P 500 Index, the Index Value is the closing value of the Index. For Indexed Strategies that use the SPDR Gold Shares ETF, the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF, or the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF, the Index Value is the fund's closing share price on the NYSE Arca.

INDEXED STRATEGY. A Crediting Strategy that provides a return based, in part, on changes in an Index Value.

INVESTMENT BASE. The amount applied to an Indexed Strategy at the start of a current Term. A withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge reduces the Investment Base proportionally to the reduction in the value of that Indexed Strategy due to the withdrawal or charge. For example, if a withdrawal reduces the value of an Indexed Strategy by 15%, then it will reduce the Investment Base of that Strategy by 15%.

MARKET CLOSE. The close of the regular or core trading session on the market used to measure a given Indexed Strategy.

MARKET DAY. Each day that all markets that are used to measure available Indexed Strategies are open for regular trading.

MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE ("WE," "US," "OUR," "MMALIC"). MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company.

MAXIMUM GAIN. The largest positive Index Change for a Term that is taken into account to determine the Vested Gain for a given Indexed Strategy. We set the Maximum Gain for each Term of an Indexed Strategy before the first day of that Term. For a given Term, we may set a different Maximum Gain for amounts attributable to Purchase Payments received on different dates. The Maximum Gain can also be called a "Cap".

MAXIMUM LOSS. The most negative Index Change for a Term that is taken into account to determine a Vested Loss for a given Conserve Strategy or Growth Strategy. The Maximum Loss for a Growth Strategy is a loss of 10% and will apply to all Terms of that Growth Strategy. The Maximum Loss for a Conserve Strategy is 0% and will apply to all Terms of that Conserve Strategy. The Maximum Loss can also be called a "Floor".

OWNER ("YOU," "YOURS"). The person(s) who possesses the ownership rights under the Contract. If there is more than one Owner, each Owner will be a joint owner of the Contract and each reference to Owner means joint owners.

PAYOUT OPTION. The form in which an Annuity Payout Benefit or Death Benefit may be paid. Standard options are described in the Payout Options section of this prospectus.

PURCHASE PAYMENT. An amount received by us for the Contract. This amount is after the deduction of any fee charged by the person remitting payment and any taxes withheld from the payment.

PURCHASE PAYMENT ACCOUNT. An account where a Purchase Payment is held from the date it is applied to the Contract until the first Strategy Application Date on or after that date.

REQUEST IN GOOD ORDER. Information provided or a request made that is:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• complete and satisfactory to us;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• sent to us on our form or in a manner satisfactory to us, which may, at our discretion, be by telephone or
electronic means; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• received at our administrative office.

Information provided or a request made is complete and satisfactory when we have received: (1) all the information and legal documentation that we require to process the information or the request; and (2) instructions that are sufficiently clear that we do not need to exercise any discretion to process the information or the request. If you have any questions, you should contact us or your registered representative before submitting your request.

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STRATEGY APPLICATION DATE. The 6th and 20th days of each month.

SURRENDER. The termination of your Contract in exchange for its Surrender Value.

SURRENDER VALUE. The Account Value minus the Early Withdrawal Charge that would apply on a Surrender of the Contract.

TAX-QUALIFIED CONTRACT. An annuity contract that is intended to qualify for special tax treatment for retirement savings. If your Contract is a Tax-Qualified Contract, the cover page of your Contract includes information about its tax qualification. If your Contract is not a Tax-Qualified Contract, the cover page of your Contract will identify it as a "Nonqualified Annuity."

TERM. The period for which Contract values are allocated to a given Crediting Strategy, and over which interest or gain or loss is calculated. Each Term is one year long, and will start and end on a Strategy Application Date. A new Term will start on the date that the preceding Term ends.

VESTED GAIN. The portion of any positive Index Change for the Term of an Indexed Strategy that is taken into account when determining the value of that Indexed Strategy. For any day of a Term, the Vested Gain is equal to: (1) any positive Index Change for the Term, but not exceeding the Maximum Gain set for that Term; multiplied by (2) the applicable Vesting Factor for that day; and then multiplied by (3) the remaining Investment Base for that Term.

VESTED LOSS. The portion of any negative Index Change for the Term of an Indexed Strategy that is taken into account when determining the value of that Indexed Strategy. For any day of a Term, the Vested Loss is equal to: (1) any negative Index Change for the Term, after taking into account either the Maximum Loss for each Term of that Indexed Strategy or the Buffer; multiplied by (2) the remaining Investment Base for that Term.

VESTING FACTOR. A factor used to determine a Vested Gain. Vesting Factors are described in the Vested Gains and Losses section of this prospectus.

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**Summary** 

The MassMutual Ascend Life Index Frontier**<sup>®</sup>** 5 annuity is a modified single premium deferred annuity contract that may help you accumulate retirement savings. The Contract is intended for long term investment purposes. The Contract is a legal agreement between you as the Owner and MassMutual Ascend Life as the issuing insurance company. In the Contract, you agree to make one or more Purchase Payments to us and we agree to pay the Annuity Payout Benefit to you.

Like all deferred annuities, the Contract has two periods. During the period prior to the Annuity Payout Initiation Date, your Contract may accumulate earnings on a tax-deferred basis. During the period that begins on the Annuity Payout Initiation Date, we will make payments under the selected Payout Option.

The following chart describes the key features of the Contract. Read this prospectus for more detailed information about the Contract.

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|  Benefits | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The **Annuity Payout Benefit** is a series of periodic payments made under a Payout Option. This benefit can provide you with income for a fixed period of time or for life. It is based on the Account Value on the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The **Cash Benefit** lets you take out all of your Account Value (surrender) or take out part of it (withdrawal). An Early Withdrawal Charge generally applies if you take money out during the first five Contract Years. You can Surrender your Contract or take a withdrawal before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The **Death Benefit** is payable if you die before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date. This benefit is paid to your beneficiaries. It is based on the Death Benefit Value, which will never be less than your Purchase Payments, reduced proportionately for withdrawals.<br>Please see the Annuity Payout Benefit, Cash Benefit, and Death Benefit sections on pages [ ] for more information |
| Purchase Payments | The Contract is a modified single premium annuity. This means we will accept Purchase Payments only during the purchase payment period, which ends two months after the Contract Effective Date. The initial Purchase Payment must be at least $25,000. Each additional Purchase Payment must be at least $10,000. You will need our prior approval if:<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you are age 80 or younger and want to make a Purchase Payment(s) of more than $1,000,000; or<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you are over age 80 and want to make a Purchase Payment(s) of more than $750,000.<br>Please see the Purchase section on page [ ] for more information. |
|  Issue Age | Each Owner must be age 80 or younger on the Contract Effective Date. Please see the Purchase section on page [ ] for more information. |

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| Indexed Strategies | We currently offer nine Indexed Strategies. |  |
|  | **Conserve/0% Floor Strategies** | **Index** |
|  | S&P 500 0% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index |
|  | SPDR Gold Shares 0% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF |
|  | iShares U.S. Real Estate 0% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF |
|  | iShares MSCI EAFE 0% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF |
|  | **Growth/-10% Floor Strategies** | **Index** |
|  | S&P 500 -10% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index |
|  | SPDR Gold Shares -10% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF |
|  | iShares U.S. Real Estate -10% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF |
|  | iShares MSCI EAFE -10% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF |
|  | **10% Buffer Strategy** | **Index** |
|  | S&P 500 10% Buffer | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index |
|  | <br> **Conserve/0% Floor Strategies**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Conserve Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Conserve Strategy will never decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term.<br>**Growth/-10% Floor Strategies**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Growth Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Growth Strategy will decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term. If you allocate money to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative Index Change.<br>**10% Buffer Strategy**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of the Buffer Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of the Buffer Strategy will decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term. If you allocate money to the Buffer Strategy, at the end of the Term you can lose up to 90% of that money due to a negative Index Change. At the end of the Term, 10% of the money you allocated is protected from loss. You can lose more than 90% of that money if you withdraw it before the end of the Term.<br><u>Note: The S&P 500 Buffer strategy is not available for Contracts issued prior to May 2020.</u><br>Please see the Indexed Strategies section on page [ ] for more information. | <br> **Conserve/0% Floor Strategies**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Conserve Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Conserve Strategy will never decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term.<br>**Growth/-10% Floor Strategies**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Growth Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of a Growth Strategy will decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term. If you allocate money to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative Index Change.<br>**10% Buffer Strategy**<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of the Buffer Strategy will increase if there is a positive Index Change during a Term. Any positive Index Change is subject to the applicable Maximum Gain for the Term. Before the end of the Term, any positive Index Change is also subject to a Vesting Factor. A Vested Gain can never be more than the Maximum Gain for that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The value of the Buffer Strategy will decrease due to a negative Index Change during a Term. If you allocate money to the Buffer Strategy, at the end of the Term you can lose up to 90% of that money due to a negative Index Change. At the end of the Term, 10% of the money you allocated is protected from loss. You can lose more than 90% of that money if you withdraw it before the end of the Term.<br><u>Note: The S&P 500 Buffer strategy is not available for Contracts issued prior to May 2020.</u><br>Please see the Indexed Strategies section on page [ ] for more information. |

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| Indexed Strategy Value and Investment Base | At the start of a Term, the value of an Indexed Strategy is equal to the Investment Base for that Term, which is the amount applied to that Strategy for that Term.<br>During a Term, a Vested Gain increases the Strategy value or a Vested Loss reduces the Strategy value.<br>A withdrawal reduces the Strategy value, including the value of any Conserve/0% Floor Strategy, by the amount of the withdrawal and related Early Withdrawal Charge.<br>A withdrawal reduces the Investment Base by the portion of the Investment Base needed to pay for the withdrawal and related Early Withdrawal Charge. The reduction in the Investment Base is proportional to the reduction in the Strategy value. This means that we calculate the percentage of Strategy Value that is being withdrawn and we reduce your Investment Base by the same percentage. If you take a withdrawal when your Strategy Value is less than your Investment Base, the amount of Investment Base reduction will exceed the dollar amount of your withdrawal. For example, if your Strategy Value is $30,000 and you withdraw $12,000, you have withdrawn 40% of Strategy Value. If your Investment Base was $40,000 before the withdrawal, it would be reduced by $16,000 ($40,000 x .40) and your new Investment Base after the withdrawal would be $24,000 ($40,000 – $16,000). If your Strategy Value is greater than your Investment Base, the amount of the Investment Base reduction will be less than the dollar amount of the withdrawal.<br>Please see the Indexed Strategies section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Vested Gains and Losses | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Each day of a Term, the value of an Indexed Strategy is adjusted for the Vested Gain or Loss since the start of that Term. We use the following formulas to calculate Vested Gains and Losses.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Vested Gain = any positive Index Change for the Term (but not exceeding the Maximum Gain set for the Term) x applicable Vesting Factor for that day x remaining Investment Base for the current Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Vested Loss = any negative Index Change for the Term (after taking into account either the Maximum Loss for the Term or the Buffer, as applicable) x remaining Investment Base for the current Term.<br>Please see the Vested Gains and Losses section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Maximum Gains | We set a Maximum Gain for each Indexed Strategy prior to the start of each Term. This means the Maximum Gain for an Indexed Strategy may change for each Term. At least 10 days before the next Term starts, we will post the Maximum Gain that will apply to an Indexed Strategy for that next Term on our website. The Previous Notice Methods section of this prospectus describes a different process used to provide notice of the Maximum Gain for each Indexed Strategy that will apply to Contracts issued prior to May 1, 2019. In general, we will set a higher Maximum Gain for a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy than the Maximum Gain for a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy that uses the same Index. In general, we will set a higher Maximum Gain for a 10% Buffer Strategy than the Maximum Gain for a Growth Strategy that uses the same Index.<br>Please see the Vested Gains and Losses section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Maximum Losses | The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Conserve Strategy is 0%.<br>The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Growth Strategy is a loss of 10%.<br>The Maximum Loss for each Term of the Buffer Strategy is a loss of 90%, or more than 90% if a withdrawal is taken before the end of the Term. In addition, your cumulative loss over Multiple Terms could exceed 90% of your investment.<br>Please see the Vested Gains and Losses section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Buffer | The Buffer at the end of each Term of a Buffer Strategy is 10%. Before the end of each Term, the Buffer is calculated daily as a prorated share of the annual 10% Buffer. Please see the Vested Gains and Losses section on page [ ] for more information. |

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| Vesting Factors | Vesting Factors for the Indexed Strategies are fixed and are applied as follows:<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For a positive Index Change during a Term, the Vesting Factors are 25% for any date within the first six months of a Term; 50% for any date within the final six months of a Term but before the final Market Date of the Term; and 100% on or after the final Market Date of the Term. A Vesting Factor below 100% limits any positive increase during a Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **For a negative Index Change during a Term, there is no Vesting Factor.**<br>Please see the Vested Gains and Losses section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Declared Rate Strategy | Amounts held under the Declared Rate Strategy are credited with interest daily throughout a Term at a rate we set before that Term begins. This means the interest rate for the Declared Rate Strategy may change for each Term. A Declared Rate will never be less than 1%. At least 10 days before the next Term starts, we will post the Declared Rate that will apply to the Declared Rate Strategy for that next Term on our website. The Previous Notice Methods section of this prospectus describes a different process used to provide notice of the Declared Rate that will apply to Contracts issued prior to May 1, 2019.<br>Please see the Declared Rate Strategy section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Strategy Renewals | At the end of each Term of a given Crediting Strategy, we will apply the ending value of that Strategy to a new Term of that same Strategy. The amount applied to a new Term will not include any amount that is moved as part of a reallocation at the Term end.<br>Please see the Strategy Renewals and Reallocations at Term End section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Strategy Reallocations | At the end of a Term, you may reallocate the ending values of the Crediting Strategies for that Term among the Strategies.<br>Please see the Strategy Renewals and Reallocations at Term End section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Access to Your Money Through Withdrawals | You may take a withdrawal from your Contract at any time prior to the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• During the first five Contract Years, unless you qualify for the Free Withdrawal Allowance or the bailout right as described below, an Early Withdrawal Charge will apply.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy will reduce the value of that Strategy on a dollar-for-dollar basis. A withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy during a Term will proportionally reduce the Investment Base used to calculate any subsequent Vested Gain or Loss in that Term.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• In addition to any applicable Early Withdrawal Charge, a withdrawal may be subject to income tax, and a withdrawal before age 59<sup>1</sup>⁄<sub>2</sub> may also be subject to an additional 10% penalty tax.<br>Please see the Early Withdrawal Charge section on page [ ] for more information. |

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| Early Withdrawal Charge | An Early Withdrawal Charge applies during the first five Contract Years if you Surrender your Contract or withdraw an amount in excess of the Free Withdrawal Allowance. The charge is equal to the amount subject to the charge multiplied by the applicable rate set out below. |

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| Contract Year | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6+ |
|  Early Withdrawal Charge Rate | 8% | 7% | 6% | 5% | 4% | 0% |

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|  | If you take a withdrawal from your Contract, the amount subject to the charge is the amount you withdraw plus any amount needed to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge. If you Surrender your Contract, the amount subject to the charge is your Account Value.<br>When you request a withdrawal, we will reduce the amount we pay you by the amount of the Early Withdrawal Charge. If you instruct us to pay you the specific withdrawal amount, we will instead reduce your Account Value by both the requested specific withdrawal amount, as well as the amount of the Early Withdrawal Charge. In this case, since you opted not to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge out of your withdrawal proceeds, we treat the Early Withdrawal Charge as an additional requested withdrawal. We will apply the Early Withdrawal Charge to both the specified withdrawal amount, as well as any amounts we withdraw to cover your Early Withdrawal Charges. The Early Withdrawal Charge does not apply to (1) a withdrawal that qualifies for the Free Withdrawal Allowance; (2) to any withdrawal under the Bailout right; or (3) the amount, if any, that qualifies for another waiver. Please see the Early Withdrawal Charge section below for more information.<br>For example, if after using their Free Withdrawal Allowance a contractholder requested that an additional $10,000 be withdrawn from their Account Value when an 8% Early Withdrawal Charge was in effect, a $800 Early Withdrawal Charge would apply (8% of $10,000 withdrawn). The contractholder would receive $9,200 ($10,000 - $800), minus any income tax withholding.<br>Similarly, if a contractholder instead requested that they receive a net amount of $10,000 from their account in the same circumstances, we would treat the Early Withdrawal Charge amount as an additional requested withdrawal subject to an Early Withdrawal Charge. This means that we will "gross up" your requested withdrawal to cover applicable Early Withdrawal Charges (and any income tax withholding). If we assume that no income tax withholding applies, the withdrawal would be grossed up to $10,870, calculated by dividing the net amount requested by 1 minus the Early Withdrawal Charge rate ($10,000 / (1 – 0.08)). The Early Withdrawal Charge would be $870 (8% of the $10,870 withdrawal), and the contractholder would receive $10,000 ($10,870 - $870). |
| Free Withdrawal Allowance | The Free Withdrawal Allowance lets you withdraw some money from your Contract without the imposition of the Early Withdrawal Charge. For the first Contract Year, the Free Withdrawal Allowance is an amount equal to 10% of the total Purchase Payments received by us. For each subsequent Contract Year, the Free Withdrawal Allowance is equal to 10% of the Account Value as of the most recent Contract Anniversary. The Free Withdrawal Allowance is non-cumulative and you may not carry over any unused portion to other Contract Years. Like any other withdrawal, an amount withdrawn that is covered by the Free Withdrawal Allowance will reduce the value of a Crediting Strategy on a dollar-for dollar basis, and will proportionally reduce the Investment Base of a Strategy. Please see the Early Withdrawal Charge section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Bailout Right | We will waive the Early Withdrawal Charge on an amount you withdraw if: (1) you withdraw it at the end of a Term from an Indexed Strategy; and (2) either the Maximum Gain for such Indexed Strategy for the next Term is less than the Bailout Trigger for the current Term, or such Indexed Strategy will not be available for the next Term. If the Bailout right will apply at the end of a Term, we will notify you at least 30 days before the end of that Term. The Bailout right does not apply to your initial Term. Please see the Early Withdrawal Charge section on page [ ] for more information. |

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| Payout Options | Like all annuity contracts, the Contract offers a range of Payout Options, which provide payments for your lifetime or for a fixed period. After payments begin, you cannot change the Payout Option or any fixed period you selected. The standard Payout Options are listed below.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Fixed Period Payout<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Life Payout<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Life Payout with Payments for at Least a Fixed Period<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Joint and One-half Survivor Payout<br>Please see the Payout Options section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Death Benefit | A Death Benefit is payable under the Contract if you die before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date. If the Owner is a non-natural person, such as a trust or a corporation, then a Death Benefit is payable under the Contract if an Annuitant dies before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.<br>The Death Benefit Value is the greater of: (1) the Account Value as of the applicable date; or (2) your Purchase Payment(s) reduced proportionally for all withdrawals, but not including amounts applied to pay Early Withdrawal Charges.<br>Please see the Death Benefit section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Tax Deferral | The Contract is generally tax deferred, which means that you are not taxed on the earnings in your Contract until the money is paid to you. Contracts owned by non-natural owners, such as trusts and corporations, are subject to special rules.<br>A tax-qualified retirement plan such as an IRA also provides tax deferral. Buying the Contract within a tax-qualified retirement plan does not give you any extra tax benefits. There should be reasons other than tax deferral for buying the Contract within a tax-qualified retirement plan.<br>Please see the Federal Tax Considerations section on page [ ] for more information. |
| Right to Cancel | If you purchase a Contract, you may cancel it within 20 days after you receive it. If you purchase a Contract to replace an existing annuity contract or insurance policy, you have 30 days to cancel the Contract. The right to cancel period may be longer in some states. In many states, you will bear the risk of investment gain or loss before cancellation.<br>Please see the Right to Cancel (Free Look) section on page [ ] for more information. |

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**Risk Factors** 

The Contract involves certain risks that you should understand before purchasing it. You should carefully consider your income needs and risk tolerance to determine whether the Contract or a particular Indexed Strategy is appropriate for you. The level of risk you bear and your potential investment performance will differ depending on the Crediting Strategies you choose.

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| Loss of Principal Related to Growth Strategy and Buffer Strategy due to Negative Index Changes | There is a significant risk of loss of principal and related earnings due to negative Index Changes if you allocate your Purchase Payment(s) to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy or 10% Buffer Strategy. Such a loss may be substantial.<br>This risk exists for each Growth Strategy because you agree to absorb any loss in the Index during the Term up to the Maximum Loss of 10%. This risk exists for each Buffer Strategy because you agree to absorb any loss in the Index that exceeds the Buffer. This risk of loss does not exist if you allocate your Purchase Payment(s) to the Declared Rate Strategy or to a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy.<br>If you allocate money to a Growth Strategy, you may lose up to 10% at the end of each Term. If you allocate money to a Growth Strategy over multiple Terms, you may lose up to 10% each Term, which may result in a cumulative loss that is greater than 10%.<br>If you allocate money to a Buffer Strategy, you may lose up to 90% at the end of each Term. If you allocate money to a Buffer Strategy and withdraw it before the end of the Term, you may lose more than 90% because the Buffer is less than 10% until the end of the Term. If you allocate money to a Buffer Strategy over multiple Terms, you may lose up to 90% at the end of each Term, which may result in a cumulative loss that is greater than 90%. |

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| Loss of Principal Related to Early Withdrawal Charge | There is also a risk of loss of principal and related earnings if you take a withdrawal from your Contract or Surrender it during the first five Contract Years. This risk exists for each Strategy because an Early Withdrawal Charge may apply. A withdrawal from any Strategy, including any Conserve/0% Floor Strategy, when an Early Withdrawal Charge applies, will reduce the value of the Strategy. This reduction will occur even if there is a Vested Gain on the date of the withdrawal. An Early Withdrawal Charge may reduce the value of an Indexed Strategy by more than increases in the value of the Indexed Strategy resulting from Vested Gains in the current and prior Terms. |
| Long-Term Nature of Contract | The Contract is a deferred annuity, which means the Annuity Payout Benefit will begin on a future date. We designed the Contract to be a long-term investment that you can use to help build a retirement nest egg and provide income for retirement. The limitations and charges included in the Contract reflect its long-term nature. |
| Limits on Investment Return | Any increase in the value of an Indexed Strategy over a Term is limited by a Maximum Gain. Any increase in the value of an Indexed Strategy before the end of a Term is also limited by a Vesting Factor, which will be less than 100%. Due to these limitations, in many cases the return on money allocated to an Indexed Strategy will not fully reflect the corresponding positive Index Change for a Term.<br>The value of an Indexed Strategy only captures an Index Value at the applicable Market Close. You will bear the risk that an Index Value might be significantly lower at that Market Close than at another point during the Term.<br>We measure the Index Change by comparing the Index Value on the first day of the Term to the Index Value on the last day of the Term. This means that if the Index Value is lower on the last day of the Term, you may experience negative or flat performance even if the Index experienced gains through some, or most, of the Term. |
| Limits on Reallocations | You cannot reallocate money among the Crediting Strategies prior to the end of a Term. If you want to take money out of Strategy during a Term, you must take a withdrawal from that Strategy or Surrender your Contract. |
| Early Withdrawal Charge | If you withdraw money from or Surrender the Contract during the first five Contract Years, we will deduct an Early Withdrawal Charge unless the Free Withdrawal Allowance or Bailout right applies. Deduction of the Early Withdrawal Charge may result in loss of principal and any prior earnings. An Early Withdrawal Charge will reduce Strategy values, including Conserve/0% Floor Strategy values. |
| Timing of Withdrawals, Surrender, Annuity Payout Initiation Date, or Death Benefit Claim | You should take into consideration the dates on which the Term(s) of your Indexed Strategies end relative to the timing of a withdrawal or Surrender, the Annuity Payout Initiation Date, or the submission of a Death Benefit claim.<br>For example, a withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy before the end of a Term will lock in the existing Vested Gain or Loss. In addition, due to the Vesting Factors that we use to calculate Vested Gains, increase in the value of an Indexed Strategy before the end of a Term will be less than the corresponding positive Index Change. |
| No Ability to Determine Strategy Values in Advance | If you request a withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy, we will process the withdrawal at the first Market Close after receipt of your Request in Good Order. This means you will not be able to determine in advance the value of an Indexed Strategy or the amount of any Vested Gain or Vested Loss. Likewise, you will not be able to determine in advance the amount payable upon Surrender, applied to the Annuity Payout Benefit, or payable as the Death Benefit. |
| Changes in Declared Rates | We set a Declared Rate for each new Term of the Declared Rate Strategy. The Declared Rate may be as low as 1%. You risk the possibility that the Declared Rate for a new Term may be lower than you would find acceptable. |
| Changes in Maximum Gains | We set a Maximum Gain for each new Term of an Indexed Strategy. The Maximum Gain for a new Term of an Indexed Strategy may be lower than its Maximum Gain for the current Term and may be as low as 1%. You risk the possibility that the Maximum Gain for a new Term may be lower than you would find acceptable. |

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| Unavailable Indexed Strategies | At the end of a Term, we may stop offering any Indexed Strategy and, consequently, an Indexed Strategy you selected may not be available after the end of a Term. An Indexed Strategy you selected also may not be available after the end of a Term due to minimums and maximums that we set. In that case, if you do not withdraw the funds pursuant to your Bailout Right or reallocate them to another Crediting Strategy, then we will reallocate the applicable funds to a default Strategy. The funds allocated to a default Strategy may earn a return that is lower than the return they would have earned if there had been no reallocation, but will not increase the risk of loss of principal and any prior earnings. |
| Unavailable Declared Rate Strategy | At the end of a Term, we may stop offering the Declared Rate Strategy and, consequently, only Indexed Strategies, which may earn 0% for any Term, will be available after the end of the Term. In this case, we will offer at least one Indexed Strategy with a Maximum Loss of 0%. Unlike a Declared Rate Strategy, no earnings are guaranteed for an Indexed Strategy. |
| Replacement of an Index | We have the right to replace an Index if it is discontinued or we are no longer able to use it, its calculation changes substantially, or we determine that hedging instruments are difficult to acquire or the cost of hedging becomes excessive. We may do so at the end of a Term or during a Term. If we replace an Index during a Term, we will calculate Vested Gains and Losses using the old Index up until the replacement date. After the replacement date, we will calculate Vested Gains and Losses using the new Index. The performance of the new Index may not be as good as the performance of the old Index. As a result, funds allocated to an Indexed Strategy may earn a return that is lower than the return they would have earned if there had been no replacement. |
| Involuntary Termination of Contract | If your Account Value falls below the minimum value of $5,000 for any reason, we may terminate your Contract. For example, we may terminate your Contract if a loss on a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy or a 10% Buffer Strategy causes your Account Value to fall below $5,000. |
| No Direct Investment in the Market | When you allocate money to an Indexed Strategy that uses the S&P 500 Index, you will not be investing in that Index, or in any stock included in that Index. Index Changes for these Strategies are calculated without taking into account dividends paid on stocks that make up the S&P 500 Index.<br>When you allocate money to an Indexed Strategy that uses the SPDR Gold Shares ETF, you will not be investing in that exchange-traded fund or in gold. Index Changes for these Strategies are calculated without taking into account dividends paid by the SPDR Gold Shares ETF.<br>When you allocate money to an Indexed Strategy that uses the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF, you will not be investing in that exchange-traded fund, in the securities or other assets that it holds, or in any real estate investment trust. Index Changes for these Strategies are calculated without taking into account dividends paid by the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF.<br>When you allocate money to an Indexed Strategy that uses the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF, you will not be investing in that exchange-traded fund or in the securities or other assets that it holds, or in any stock included in the MSCI EAFE Index. Index Changes for these Strategies are calculated without taking into account dividends paid by the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF.<br>Because changes in the value of an Indexed Strategy are subject to Maximum Gains and either Maximum Losses or a Buffer, as applicable, and may be subject to a Vesting Factor, the performance of an Indexed Strategy may diverge from the performance of the Index. |

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|  Market Risk | Money allocated to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy or 10% Buffer Strategy that uses the S&P 500 Index is subject to the risk that the market value of the underlying securities that comprise the S&P 500 Index may decline. For a Growth Strategy, you will absorb any such market loss up to the amount of the Maximum Loss of 10%. For a Buffer Strategy, you will absorb any such market loss to the extent it exceeds the Buffer. In addition, any positive change in the Index Value over a Term will be lower than the total return on an investment in the stocks that comprise the S&P 500 Index because the total return will reflect dividend payments on those stocks and the Index Values will not reflect those dividend payments. Because the return on an Indexed Strategy that uses the S&P 500 Index will be subject to limitations and will be linked to its performance and not the performance of the underlying stocks, your return may be less than that of a direct investment in such stocks. In addition, due to the same limitations, your return may be less than that of a direct investment in a fund that tracks the S&P 500 Index.<br>Money allocated to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy that uses the SPDR Gold Shares ETF is subject to the risk that its share price may decline. You will absorb any such market loss up to the amount of the Maximum Loss of 10%. The share price of the SPDR Gold Shares ETF is tied to the price of gold, which has fluctuated widely over the past several years. The share price may not replicate the performance of gold. In addition, because the return on any indexed strategy that uses the SPDR Gold Shares ETF will be subject to limitations and will be linked to the performance of the SPDR Gold Shares ETF and not the performance of the price of gold, your return may be less than that of another investment linked directly to the fund's performance or the price of gold. In addition, due to the same limitations, your return may be less than that of a direct investment in the SPDR Gold Shares ETF.<br>Money allocated to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy that uses the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF is subject to the risk that its share price may decline. You will absorb any such market loss up to the amount of the Maximum Loss of 10%. The share price of the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF is tied to the performance of the real estate sector, which is highly sensitive to general and local economic conditions and developments, characterized by intense competition and periodic overbuilding, and subject to risks associated with leverage. The share price may not replicate the performance of the fund, its underlying index, or the components of that index. In addition, because the return on any indexed strategy that uses the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF will be subject to limitations and will be linked to the performance of the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF and not the performance of its underlying index or the components of that index, your return may be less than that of another investment linked directly to the performance of the fund, its underlying index, or a direct investment in such components. In addition, due to the same limitations, your return may be less than that of a direct investment in the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF.<br>Money allocated to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy that uses the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF is subject to the risk that its share price may decline. You will absorb any such market loss up to the amount of the Maximum Loss of 10%. The share price of the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF is tied to the performance of large- and mid-capitalization developed market equities, excluding the U.S. and Canada. The share price may not replicate the performance of the fund, its underlying index, or the components of that index. In addition, because the return on any indexed strategy that uses the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF will be subject to limitations and will be linked to the performance of the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF and not the performance of its underlying index or the components of that index, your return may be less than that of another investment linked directly to the performance of the fund, its underlying index, or a direct investment in such components. In addition, due to the same limitations, your return may be less than that of a direct investment in the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF.<br>[The outbreak of the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. As of the date of this prospectus, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant volatility and negative returns in the financial markets. These market conditions have impacted the performance of the Indexes to which the Growth/-10% |

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|  | Floor Strategies and 10% Buffer Strategies are linked. If these market conditions continue, and depending on your individual circumstances (e.g., your selected Crediting Strategies and the timing of any Purchase Payments, transfers, or withdrawals), you may experience (perhaps significant) negative returns under the Contract. The duration of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the future impact that the pandemic may have on the financial markets and global economy, cannot be foreseen, however. You should consult with a Financial Professional about how the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent market conditions may impact your future investment decisions related to the Contract, such as purchasing the Contract or making Purchase Payments, transfers, or withdrawals, based on your individual circumstances.<br> The historical performance of an Index does not guarantee future results.] |
| Regulatory Risk | MassMutual Ascend Life is not an investment company and is not registered as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. The protections provided to investors by that Act are not applicable to the Contract. |
| Reliance on Our Claims-Paying Ability | No company other than MassMutual Ascend Life has any legal responsibility to pay amounts owed under the Contract. You should look to the financial strength of MassMutual Ascend Life for its claims- paying ability.<br>Various factors, such as those listed below, could materially affect our business, financial condition, cash flows or future results and, in turn, our financial strength and claims-paying ability. A more complete discussion of these factors appears on pages A6-A10.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Adverse developments in financial markets and deterioration in global economic conditions<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unfavorable interest rate environments<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Losses on our investment portfolio<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Loss of market share due to intense competition<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Ineffectiveness of risk management policies<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Changes in applicable law and regulations<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Inability to obtain reinsurance or to collect on reinsurance<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Downgrade or potential downgrade in our financial strength rating<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Variations from actual experience and management's estimates and assumptions<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The amount of capital we must hold to meet our statutory requirements can vary significantly from time to time<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Legal actions and regulatory proceedings<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Difficulties with technology or data security<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Failure to protect the confidentiality of customer information<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Failure to maintain effective and efficient information systems<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Occurrence of catastrophic events, terrorism or military actions<br>[The economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic may negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations. The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic impacts financial markets, the global economy, and our financial strength and claims-paying ability will depend on future developments that cannot be predicted with certainty. We continue to be subject to significant state solvency regulations that require us to reserve amounts to pay our contractual guarantees. Please see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," "Risk Factors Related to MMALIC's Business," and "Financial Statements", and "Regulation" for additional financial information about the company and the state solvency regulations to which we are subject.] |

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**Purchase** 

You may purchase a Contract only through a registered representative of a broker-dealer that has a selling agreement with our affiliated underwriter, MM Ascend Life Investor Services, LLC.

Any Owner or Annuitant must be age 80 or younger on the Contract Effective Date. To determine eligibility, we will use the person's age on his/her last birthday. We may make exceptions with respect to the maximum issue age in our discretion.

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The Contract is not available in all states. To find out if it is available in the state where you live, ask your registered representative. The Contract may not be available for purchase during certain periods. There are a number of reasons why the Contract periodically may not be available, including that we want to limit the volume of sales of the Contract. You may wish to speak to your registered representative about how this may affect your purchase. For example, in order to purchase the Contract, you may be required to submit your application prior to a specific date. In that case, if there is a delay because your application is incomplete or otherwise not in good order, you might not be able to purchase the Contract. Your broker-dealer may impose conditions on the purchase of the Contract, such as a lower maximum issue age, than we or other selling firms impose. We reserve the right to reject any application in our discretion.

**Purchase Payments** 

The Contract is a modified single premium annuity contract. This means you may make one or more Purchase Payments during the purchase payment period. The purchase payment period begins on the Contract Effective Date. It will end two months after the Contract Effective Date.

We must receive your initial Purchase Payment on or before the Contract Effective Date. We must receive each additional Purchase Payment before the last day of the purchase payment period. We will not accept any Purchase Payment that we receive after the date that the Contract is cancelled or Surrendered or after a death for which a Death Benefit is payable.

The initial Purchase Payment must be at least $25,000. Each additional Purchase Payment must be at least $10,000. You will need our prior approval if you are age 80 or younger and want to make a Purchase Payment(s) of more than $1,000,000; or you are over age 80 and want to make a Purchase Payment(s) of more than $750,000.

We reserve the right to refuse a Purchase Payment made in the form of a personal check in excess of $100,000. We may accept a Purchase Payment over $100,000 made in other forms, such as EFT/wire transfers, or certified checks or other checks written by financial institutions. We will not accept a Purchase Payment made with cash, money orders, or traveler's checks.

**Exchanges, Transfers, or Rollovers** 

If you own an annuity or tax-qualified account, you may be able to exchange it for an Index Frontier annuity, directly transfer it to an Index Frontier annuity, or roll it over to an Index Frontier annuity without paying taxes. Before you do, compare the benefits, features, and costs of each annuity or account. You may pay an early withdrawal charge under the old annuity or account. You may also pay a sales charge under the new annuity or account, or you may pay an early withdrawal charge if you later take withdrawals from the new annuity or account. Please note that some financial professionals may have a financial incentive to offer this Contract in place of the one the investor already owns. Ask your registered representative whether an exchange, transfer, or rollover would be advantageous, based on the features, benefits, and charges of the Index Frontier annuity.

If you purchase your Contract with an exchange, transfer, or rollover, a delay in processing the exchange, transfer, or rollover may delay the issuance of your new Contract or prevent the application of additional Purchase Payments to your existing Contract.

You should only exchange your existing contract for this Contract if you determine after comparing the features, fees, and risks of both contracts that it is preferable for you to purchase this Contract rather than continuing to own your existing contract.

**Application of Purchase Payments** 

Each Purchase Payment will be held in the Purchase Payment Account until it is applied to a Crediting Strategy on a Strategy Application Date. On each Strategy Application Date, we will apply the then current balance of the Purchase Payment Account to the Crediting Strategies you selected.

In certain states, we are required to give back your Purchase Payment(s) if you decide to cancel your Contract during the free look period. If we are required by law to refund your Purchase Payment(s), we reserve the right to hold your Purchase Payment(s) in the Purchase Payment Account until the first Strategy Application Date on or after the end of the free look period.

We will credit interest daily on amounts held in the Purchase Payment Account at the annual effective rate set out in your Contract. This rate will be at least 1%.

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**Purchase Payment Account Value** 

On any day, the value of the Purchase Payment Account is equal to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Purchase Payments received by us plus interest earned daily; minus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the premium tax or other tax that may apply to the Purchase Payments; and minus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• each withdrawal and related Early Withdrawal Charge taken from the Purchase Payment Account since the last
Strategy Application Date.

**Unforeseen Processing Delays** 

We are exposed to risks related to natural and man-made disasters and catastrophes, such as (but not limited to) storms, fires, floods, earthquakes, public health crises, malicious acts, and terrorist acts, any of which could adversely affect our ability to conduct business. A natural or man-made disaster or catastrophe, including a pandemic (such as COVID-19), could affect the ability or willingness of our employees or the employees of our service providers to perform their job responsibilities. While many of our employees and the employees of our service providers are able to work remotely, those remote work arrangements may result in our business operations being less efficient than under normal circumstances and could lead to delays in our processing of contract-related transactions, including orders from contract owners. Catastrophic events may negatively affect the computer and other systems on which we rely, impact our ability to calculate values under your Contract, or have other possible negative impacts. There can be no assurance that our service providers will be able to successfully avoid negative impacts associated with natural and man-made disasters and catastrophes.

A processing delay will not affect the effective date as of which we process transactions, including orders from contract owners, the date that a Term begins or ends, or the values used to process the transaction.

**Initial Strategy Selections** 

You make your initial selection of Crediting Strategies in your purchase application. Your initial selection is set out on your Contract Specifications Page.

Your initial selection will also apply to each subsequent Purchase Payment. If you wish to change your selection for a specific Purchase Payment, we must receive your Request in Good Order with the Crediting Strategies you selected for that Purchase Payment before the Strategy Application Date that applies to that Purchase Payment.

When you select a Crediting Strategy, you must also indicate the percentage of the Purchase Payment that you wish to allocate to that Crediting Strategy. All allocations must be in whole percentages that total 100%. We reserve the right to round amounts up or down to make whole percentages, and to reduce or increase amounts proportionally in order to total 100%.

Currently there are no limitations on the amounts that may be applied to a Crediting Strategy.

We may establish minimum and maximum amounts or percentages that may be applied to a given Crediting Strategy for any future Term in our discretion. We will notify you of any such minimum or maximum. We may limit the availability of a Strategy for a Term that would extend beyond the Annuity Payout Initiation Date. All Strategies may not be available in all states.

**Declared Rate Strategy** 

<u>Note: The Declared Rate Strategy is not available for Contracts issued in Missouri.</u> 

The Declared Rate Strategy earns interest at a fixed rate with annual compounding. Interest will be credited daily to amounts held under the Declared Rate Strategy.

We will set the Declared Rate for a Term before that Term starts. It is guaranteed for the entire Term. At least 10 days before the initial Term starts, we will post the Declared Rate that will apply to the Declared Rate Strategy for that Term on our website (www.massmutualascend.com/RILArates).

If you are not satisfied with the Declared Rate offered for your initial Term, you may rescind your Contract by returning it and giving written notice of your decision to rescind. You will have 20 days in which to rescind your Contract. The rescission period will end at midnight of the 20th day after the date on which your initial Term starts. If you exercise this rescission right, we will return your Purchase Payment(s), without any adjustment for the Early Withdrawal Charge.

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We may set a different Declared Rate for each subsequent Term. For a Term, different rates may apply with respect to amounts attributable to Purchase Payments received on different dates. At least 10 days before the next Term starts, we will post the Declared Rate that will apply to the Declared Rate Strategy for that next Term on our website (www.massmutualascend.com/RILArates). The Previous Notice Methods section of this prospectus describes a different process used to provide notice of the Declared Rate that will apply to Contracts issued prior to May 1, 2019.

In any event, the Declared Rate for a Term will never be less than the guaranteed minimum interest rate set out in the Declared Rate Strategy endorsement included in your Contract. This rate will be at least 1% per year.

**Term** 

Each Term of the Declared Rate Strategy is one year long and will start and end on a Strategy Application Date. A new Term will start at the end of the preceding Term.

If you make only one Purchase Payment or you make all of your Purchase Payments before the initial Strategy Application Date, then each Term of the Declared Rate Strategy will end on the same date in any given year. If you make a Purchase Payment after the initial Strategy Application Date, then your Purchase Payments will be applied to the Crediting Strategies on different Strategy Application Dates. In this case, the Declared Rate Strategy will have Terms that end on different dates in any given year.

*Examples.* These examples show how a Contract with multiple Purchase Payments may have Terms that end on different dates.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You make your initial Purchase Payment on March 10 and another Purchase Payment on March 17. You allocate
both payments to the Declared Rate Strategy and both payments are applied on March 20. Each Term of the Declared Rate Strategy will start and end on March 20.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You make your initial Purchase Payment on May 2 and another Purchase Payment on June 14. You allocate both
payments to the Declared Rate Strategy. Your initial Purchase Payment is applied on May 6 and the other Purchase Payment is applied on June 20. The Declared Rate Strategy will have Terms that start and end on May 6 and other Terms that
start and end on June 20.

**Declared Rate Strategy Value** 

The value of the Declared Rate Strategy is equal to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the amounts applied to the Strategy at the start of the current Term; minus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• each withdrawal and related Early Withdrawal Charge taken from the Strategy during the current Term; plus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• interest that we have credited on the balances in the Strategy for the current Term.

**Indexed Strategies** 

The Indexed Strategies provide returns that are based, in part, upon changes in an Index Value. The Indexed Strategies do not earn interest at a fixed rate. Unlike a traditional variable annuity, the values of the Indexed Strategies are not based on the investment performance of underlying portfolios.

Each Indexed Strategy has a Maximum Gain for each Term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We will set a new Maximum Gain for each Indexed Strategy prior to the start of each Term. In general, the Maximum
Gain for a Growth Strategy will be higher than the Maximum Gain for a Conserve Strategy using the same Index, and the Maximum Gain for a Buffer Strategy will be higher than the Maximum Gain for a Growth Strategy using the same Index.

Each Conserve Strategy and Growth Strategy has a Maximum Loss for each Term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Conserve Strategy is 0%. The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Growth Strategy
is a loss of 10%.

Each Buffer Strategy has a Buffer for each Term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Buffer at the end of each Term is 10%. Before the end of each Term, the Buffer is calculated daily as a
prorated share of the annual 10% Buffer.

Changes in the value of an Indexed Strategy reflect the change in the applicable Index Value since the start of the applicable Term, the Maximum Gain we set for that Indexed Strategy for that Term, the applicable Vesting Factor, and the applicable Buffer or Maximum Loss for that Indexed Strategy. **If you select a Growth Strategy or a Buffer Strategy, then each Term it is possible for you to lose a portion of your Purchase Payment(s) and any earnings allocated to that Indexed Strategy.**

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**See Vested Gains and Losses section below for additional details.** 

The Indexed Strategies that are currently available are listed below. You may allocate your funds to any of the Indexed Strategies, subject to the procedures disclosed in this prospectus.

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| **Conserve/0% Floor Strategies** | **Index** | **Maximum Loss/Floor of 0%** |
|  S&P 500 0% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
|  SPDR Gold Shares 0% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
|  iShares U.S. Real Estate 0% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
|  iShares MSCI EAFE 0% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Conserve Strategy, you cannot lose that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| **Growth/-10% Floor Strategies** | **Index** | **Maximum Loss/Floor of 10%** |
|  S&P 500 -10% Floor | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
|  SPDR Gold Shares -10% Floor | SPDR<sup>®</sup> Gold Shares ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
|  iShares U.S. Real Estate -10% Floor | iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
|  iShares MSCI EAFE -10% Floor | iShares MSCI EAFE ETF | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Growth Strategy, you can lose up to 10% of that money during the Term due to a negative change in the Index. |
| **10% Buffer Strategy** | **Index** | **End of Term Buffer of 10%** |
|  S&P 500 10% Buffer | S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index | If you allocate money at the start of a Term to a Buffer Strategy, at the end of the Term you can lose up to 90% of that money due to a negative change in the Index. At the end of the Term, 10% of the money you allocated is protected from loss. You can lose more than 90% of that money if you withdraw it before the end of the Term. |

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<u>Note: The S&P 500 Buffer strategy is not available for Contracts issued prior to May 2020.</u> 

An Early Withdrawal Charge may apply if you take a withdrawal during the first five Contract Years. That charge will reduce Strategy values, including the value of a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy.

**Term** 

Each Term of an Indexed Strategy is one year long and will start and end on a Strategy Application Date. A new Term will start at the end of the preceding Term.

If you make only one Purchase Payment or you make all of your Purchase Payments before the initial Strategy Application Date, then each Term of each Indexed Strategy will end on the same date in any given year. If you make a Purchase Payment after the initial Strategy Application Date, then your Purchase Payments will be applied to the Crediting Strategies on different Strategy Application Dates. In this case, an Indexed Strategy may have Terms that end on different dates in any given year.

*Examples.* These examples show how a Contract with multiple Purchase Payments may have Terms that end on different dates.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You make your initial Purchase Payment on March 10 and another Purchase Payment on March 17. You allocate
both payments to the same Indexed Strategy and both payments are applied on March 20. Each Term of that Indexed Strategy will start and end on March 20.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You make your initial Purchase Payment on May 2 and another Purchase Payment on June 14. You allocate both
payments to the same Indexed Strategy. Your initial Purchase Payment is applied on May 6 and the other Purchase Payment is applied on June 20. That Indexed Strategy will have Terms that start and end on May 6 and other Terms that start and
end on June 20.

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**Indexed Strategy Value** 

The value of an Indexed Strategy is equal to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Investment Base for that Term, which is the amount applied to the Strategy at the start of the current Term;
minus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the portion of that Investment Base that is taken from the Strategy to pay for each withdrawal and related Early
Withdrawal Charge during the current Term; and plus or minus

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Vested Gain or Loss for that Term on the remaining portion of the Investment Base.

The portion of the Investment Base that is taken from an Indexed Strategy to pay for a withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge is proportional to the reduction in the value of the Indexed Strategy for the withdrawal and any related charge. This means that we calculate the percentage of Strategy Value that is being withdrawn and we reduce the Investment Base by the same percentage.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A withdrawal and any related charge will reduce the value of an Indexed Strategy by an amount equal to the
withdrawal and any charge.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• But the reduction in the Investment Base to pay for a withdrawal and any related charge is proportional to the
reduction in the value of the Indexed Strategy. For example, if the withdrawal and any related charge reduces the value of an Indexed Strategy by 15%, then it will reduce the Investment Base by 15%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If there is a Vested Gain, then the portion of the Investment Base taken will be less than the withdrawal and any
related charge. With a Vested Gain, the Indexed Strategy value will be higher than the Investment Base. For example, a 15% reduction in the Investment Base will be less than a 15% reduction in the Strategy value.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **If there is a Vested Loss, then the portion of the Investment Base taken will be greater than the withdrawal and any related charge.** With a Vested Loss, the Investment Base will be higher than Indexed Strategy value. For example, a 15% reduction in the Investment Base will be greater than a 15% reduction in the Strategy value.

Here are the formulas that we use to calculate a proportional reduction in the Investment Base for a withdrawal and the remaining Investment Base.

Percentage reduction in Strategy value = withdrawal plus any related Early Withdrawal Charge / Strategy value immediately before the withdrawal

Proportionate reduction in Investment Base = Investment Base immediately before the withdrawal x percentage reduction in Strategy value

Remaining Investment Base = Investment Base immediately before the withdrawal—reduction in Investment Base

*Examples*. You allocate $5,000 to an Indexed Strategy at the start of a Term. This means the Investment Base for the Term is $5,000. You take a $1,000 withdrawal and that amount includes the amount needed to pay any related Early Withdrawal Charge that applies to the withdrawal.

*Assume at the time of your withdrawal that you have a Vested Gain of 5%.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Vested Gain is equal to $250 ($5,000 x 0.05).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Strategy value on the withdrawal date is $5,250 ($5,000 + $250).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The withdrawal (including any related Early Withdrawal Charge) reduces the Strategy value by $1,000.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Strategy value after the withdrawal is $4,250 ($5,250 - $1,000).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The percentage reduction in the Strategy value is 19.05% ($1,000 / $5,250).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The proportionate reduction in the Investment Base is $952 ($5,000 x 0.1905).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The remaining Investment Base is $4,048 ($5,000 - $952).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Due to the Vested Gain, the proportionate reduction in the Investment Base ($952) is less than the withdrawal and
related charge ($1,000). This means, after the withdrawal, the Investment Base is $4,048 rather than $4,000.

*Assume at the time of your withdrawal that you have a Vested Loss of 10%.* 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Vested Loss is equal to $500 ($5,000 x 0.10).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Strategy value on the withdrawal date is $4,500 ($5,000 - $500).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The withdrawal (including any related Early Withdrawal Charge) reduces the Strategy value by $1,000.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Strategy value after the withdrawal is $3,500 ($4,500 - $1,000).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The percentage reduction in the Strategy value is 22.22% ($1,000 / $4,500).

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The proportionate reduction in the Investment Base is $1,111 ($5,000 x 0.2222).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The remaining Investment Base is $3,889 ($5,000 - $1,111).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Due to the Vested Loss, the proportionate reduction in the Investment Base ($1,111) is greater than the
withdrawal and related charge ($1,000). This means, after the withdrawal, the Investment Base is $3,889 rather than $4,000.

**Vested Gains and Losses** 

**Overview** 

Each day of a Term, the value of an Indexed Strategy includes the Vested Gain or Loss, if any, since the start of that Term. Vested Gain or Loss is calculated on the remaining Investment Base for that Term.

Here is the formula that we use to calculate the amount of the Vested Gain or Loss.

Amount of Vested Gain or Loss = remaining Investment Base x Vested Gain or Loss percentage

*Example.* At the beginning of a Term in Contract Year 10, your entire Account Value of $100,000 is allocated to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy. You do not take any withdrawals during that Term. You Surrender your Contract at the end of that Term. No Early Withdrawal Charge applies to a Surrender in Contract Year 10.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Vested Gain is 4%, then the Strategy value includes a $4,000 Vested Gain ($100,000 x 0.04). The amount
payable upon Surrender will be $104,000 ($100,000 + $4,000).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Vested Loss is 3%, then the Strategy value includes a $3,000 Vested Loss ($100,000 x 0.03). The amount
payable upon Surrender will be $97,000 ($100,000 - $3,000).

If in this example your Surrender occurs in Contract Year 4 instead, when a 5% Early Withdrawal Charge applies, the amount payable upon Surrender is reduced by applicable Early Withdrawal Charges. For this example, we assume that the Account Value was $100,000 on the most recent Contract Anniversary.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Vested Gain is 4%, then the amount payable is reduced by Early Withdrawal Charges of $4,700, calculated as
5% of the Strategy Value minus the Free Withdrawal Allowance (5% x ($104,000 – ($100,000 x 10%))). The amount payable upon Surrender will be $99,300 ($104,000 - $4,700).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Vested Loss is 3%, then the amount payable is reduced by Early Withdrawal Charges of $4,350, calculated as
5% of the Strategy Value minus the Free Withdrawal Allowance (5% x ($97,000 – ($100,000 x 10%))). The amount payable upon Surrender will be $92,650 ($97,000 - $4,350).

***Index Change.*** Before we can calculate the Vested Gain or Loss since the start of a Term, we must determine the Index Change since the start of that Term. The Index Change is the increase or decrease in the applicable Index Value. This increase or decrease is expressed as a percentage of the applicable Index Value at the start of that Term. It is measured from the Index Value at the start of that Term to the Index Value at the last Market Close on or before the date the Index Change is determined.

*Example.* The Index Value was 1000 at the start of a Term.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Index Value at the applicable Market Close is 1065, then there is a positive Index Change of 6.5% ((1065 -
1000) / 1000).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Index Value at the applicable Market Close is 925, then there is a negative Index Change of 7.5% ((925 -
1000) / 1000).

***Indexes***. The S&P 500<sup>®</sup> Index is designed to reflect the large-cap sector of the U.S. equity market and, due to its composition, it also represents the U.S. equity market in general. It includes 500 leading companies and captures approximately 80% coverage of available market capitalization. The S&P 500 Index does not include dividends declared by any of the companies in this Index. Consequently, any positive change in the Index Value over a Term will be lower than the total return on a direct investment in the stocks that comprise the S&P 500 Index. The S&P 500 Index is a product of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC. For more information, visit www.US.SPIndices.com.

The SPDR Gold Shares represent units of beneficial interest in, and ownership of, the SPDR Gold Trust, an exchange traded fund that holds gold bullion. The investment objective of the trust is for the shares to reflect the performance of the price of gold bullion, less the trust's expenses. The shares are designed to mirror as closely as possible the price of gold, and the value of the shares relates directly to the value of the gold held by the trust, less its liabilities. The price of gold has fluctuated widely over the past several years and the shares have experienced significant price fluctuations. The value of the gold held by the trust is determined using the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) Gold Price PM. The Gold Shares trade on the NYSE Arca under the symbol GLD. For more information, visit www.spdrgoldshares.com.

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The iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF is an exchange traded fund that seeks to track the investment performance of the Dow Jones U.S. Real Estate Index. This underlying index measures the performance of the real estate sector in the U.S. equity market. A significant portion of the underlying index is represented by real estate investment trusts (REITs), but the components are likely to change over time. The fund's adviser uses an indexing strategy that involves investing in a representative sample of securities that collectively has an investment profile similar to that of the underlying index. The fund is subject to certain risks including the risk that it may not replicate the performance of the underlying index and those risks associated with concentrated investment in REITS. The fund's performance will be reduced by its expenses and fees. The fund's shares trade on the NYSE Arca under the symbol IYR. For more information, visit **www.iShares.com** and search ticker symbol IYR.

The iShares MSCI EAFE ETF is an exchange traded fund that seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of large- and mid-capitalization developed market equities, excluding the U.S. and Canada (MSCI EAFE Index). This underlying index includes stocks from Europe, Australasia and the Far East. The components of the underlying index, and the degree to which these components represent certain industries and/or countries, are likely to change over time. The fund's adviser uses an indexing strategy that involves investing in a representative sample of securities that collectively has an investment profile similar to that of the underlying index. The fund is subject to certain risks including the risk that it may not replicate the performance of the underlying index and those risks associated with investment in non-U.S. issuers. The fund's performance will be reduced by its expenses and fees. The fund's shares trade on the NYSE Arca under the symbol EFA. For more information, visit **www.iShares.com** and search ticker symbol EFA.

***Index Values***. Index Values are determined at each Market Close. An Index Value at the start of a Term is its value at the last Market Close on or before the first day of that Term. An Index Value at the end of a Term is its value at the Market Close on the last Market Day of that Term. We will use consistent sources to obtain the closing values of an Index. We currently obtain the closing values for the S&P 500 Index and the SPDR Gold Shares ETF from S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC and the closing values for the iShares MSCI EAFE ETF and the iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF from BlackRock, Inc. If those sources are no longer available, we will select an alternative published source(s) to obtain such values.

***Market Close***. A Market Close is the close of the regular or core trading session on the market used to measure an Index Change for a give Indexed Strategy.

***Market Day.*** A Market Day is each day that all markets that are used to measure Index Changes for available Indexed Strategies are open for regular trading.

**Vested Gain** 

The Vested Gain is the portion of any positive Index Change that is taken into account when determining the value of an Indexed Strategy. Here is the formula that we use to calculate a Vested Gain for any day of a Term.

Vested Gain = any positive Index Change since the start of the current Term (but not exceeding the Maximum Gain set for the Term) x applicable Vesting Factor for that day x remaining Investment Base for the current Term

***Maximum Gain****.* The Maximum Gain for an Indexed Strategy is the largest positive Index Change for a Term that is taken into account to determine the Vested Gain for that Indexed Strategy for that Term. For example, if the Maximum Gain for a Term is 5% and the Index Change at the end of that Term is positive 8%, then the Vested Gain for that Term is 5%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **The Maximum Gain will vary between Indexed Strategies.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **The Maximum Gain for a given Indexed Strategy will vary between Terms.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **We guarantee that the Maximum Gain for a Term of an Indexed Strategy will never be less than 1%.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **For each Term, your return on an Indexed Strategy may be less than any positive Index Change over that Term.** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• **For each Term, your return on an Indexed Strategy may be less than the Maximum Gain.** 

We set the Maximum Gain for each Indexed Strategy based on the cost of hedging, interest rates, and other market factors, and the Purchase Payments received for a Contract. In general, the Maximum Gain we set for a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy will be higher than the Maximum Gain we set for the corresponding Conserve/0% Floor Strategy, and the Maximum Gain for a 10% Buffer Strategy will be higher than the Maximum Gain for the corresponding Growth Strategy. Likewise, we may set Maximum Gains for Contracts with larger Purchase Payments that are higher than Maximum Gains for Contracts with smaller Purchase Payments.

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Each Purchase Payment is applied to an initial Term of a Strategy on the first Strategy Application Date on or after the date that the payment is received. The Maximum Gain for each Strategy Application Date may vary. The Maximum Gain for the first Strategy Application Date will be available on our website (www.massmutualascend.com/RILArates) on the date you signed the application (as long as we receive the application for the Contract within eight days after the date you sign it) and before the date of any Purchase Payment to which the Maximum Gain will apply. If we receive the application for the Contract within eight days after the date you sign it, we will guarantee the Maximum Gain in effect on the date you signed the application for three Strategy Application Dates from the date of the application.

If we receive the signed application within eight days after the date you sign it, then for any **Indexed Strategy**:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For an initial Term starting on the first Strategy Application Date on or after the application date, the Maximum
Gain will be the Maximum Gain in effect on the date you signed the application.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For an initial Term starting on one of the next two Strategy Application Dates, the Maximum Gain will be the
higher of the Maximum Gain in effect on the date you signed the application or the Maximum Gain otherwise in effect for that Strategy Application Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For any initial Term starting on a later Strategy Application Date, the Maximum Gain will be the Maximum Gain in
effect for that Strategy Application Date.

If we receive the signed application more than eight days after the date you sign it, then the guarantee does not apply and the Maximum Gain for each Initial Term will be the Maximum Gain in effect for that Strategy Application Date.

*Example* : You sign an application for a Contract on May 1 and allocate all of your Purchase Payments to the S&P 500 -10% Floor Strategy. On the date of the application, the Maximum Gain for the first Strategy Application Date (May 6) is 13%. We receive the application and the first Purchase Payment from you on May 8 and the second Purchase Payment from you on May 23. The Maximum Gains for the next two Strategy Application Dates are 14% (May 20) and 12% (June 6).

In this case, the initial 1-year Term for the first Purchase Payment would begin on May 20 and would have a 14% Maximum Gain (the higher of the May 6 rate or the May 20 rate). The initial 1-year Term for the second Purchase Payment would begin on June 6 and would have an 13% Maximum Gain (the higher of the May 6 rate or the June 6 rate).

If we had not received your signed application until May 10 (more than eight days after the date you signed the application), then you would not qualify for the rate guarantee, and the initial 1-year Term for the first Purchase Payment received on May 8 would have a 14% Maximum Gain (the May 20 rate effective for Purchase Payments received between May 7 and May 20), and the initial 1-year Term for the second Purchase Payment received on May 23 would have a 12% Maximum Gain (the June 6 rate effective for Purchase Payments received between May 21 and June 6).

Once your Contract is effective, we will send you a written notice at least 30 days before the end of each Term with information about the Indexed Strategies that will be available for the next Term. At least 10 days before the next Term starts, we will post the Maximum Gain that will apply to an Indexed Strategy for that next Term on our website (www.massmutualascend.com/RILArates). The Previous Notice Methods section of this prospectus describes a different process used to provide notice of the Maximum Gain for each Indexed Strategy that will apply to Contracts issued prior to May 1, 2019.

Because we can change the Maximum Gain that applies to an Indexed Strategy, the Contract has a Bailout right that allows you to take a withdrawal without incurring an Early Withdrawal Charge under certain circumstances. See Bailout Right discussion in the Early Withdrawal Charge section below.

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***Vesting Factor****.* The Vesting Factor varies depending on the day of the Term for which the Vested Gain is calculated. A Vesting Factor limits the portion of a positive Index Change that is taken into account when calculating the Vested Gain for a given Indexed Strategy for a given Term.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  | **Vesting Factor** |
|  Dates within first six months of a Term | 25% |
|  Dates within the final six months of a Term but before the final Market Day of that Term | 50% |
|  On the final Market Day of a Term | 100% |

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A Market Day is each day that all markets that are used to measure Index Changes for available Indexes Strategies are open for regular trading.

Months are measured from the first day of the Term. For example, if a Term starts on January 20, the final six months of that Term will begin on July 20.

If any date in a Term is after the final Market Day of that Term, then a 100% Vesting Factor applies on that date when Vested Gain for that Term is calculated. For example, if a Term ends on a Monday when the markets are closed due to a holiday, then the final Market Day of that Term is the Friday before that holiday. If an automatic transaction is scheduled for Saturday, then the 100% Vesting Factor applies to that transaction.

*Example*. On the date of Surrender, your entire Account Value of $100,000 is allocated to the S&P 500 Growth/-10% Floor Strategy, which has a 12% Maximum Gain for the Term. You Surrender your Contract in month 9 of that Term, which means a Vesting Factor of 50% applies. For this example, we assume that you did not take any withdrawals before you Surrender your Contract. Assume there is a positive Index Change of 15% at the date on which you Surrender your Contract. Because the Index Change exceeds the Maximum Gain, the Maximum Gain applies and limits the Index Change to 12%. As a result, the Vested Gain is 6% (12% x 0.50). The Investment Base on the date of Surrender is $100,000. The Vested Gain that applies upon Surrender will be $6,000 ($100,000 x 0.06) and the amount payable will be $106,000 minus any related Early Withdrawal Charge.

**Vested Loss** 

The Vested Loss is the portion of any negative Index Change that is taken into account when determining the value of an Indexed Strategy. Here is the formula that we use to calculate a Vested Loss for any day of a Term.

Vested Loss = any negative Index Change since the start of the current Term (after taking into account either the Maximum Loss for each Term or the Buffer, as applicable) x remaining Investment Base for the current Term

***Maximum Loss****.* The Maximum Loss for a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy or a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy is the most negative Index Change for a Term that is taken into account to determine the Vested Loss for that Indexed Strategy for that Term. For example, if the Maximum Loss for a Term is 10% and the negative Index Change at the end of that Term is 14%, then the Vested Loss for that Term is 10%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Conserve Strategy is 0%. This means that the value of a Conserve Strategy
will not decrease due to a negative Index Change.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Maximum Loss for each Term of a Growth Strategy is a loss of 10%. This means that the value of a Growth
Strategy will not decrease by more than 10% during a Term due to a negative Index Change.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The Maximum Loss will not vary depending on the day of the Term. This means that for a Growth Strategy, the
Maximum Loss throughout the Term is 10%.

***Buffer****.* The Buffer is the portion of a negative Index Change for a Term that is disregarded when determining a Vested Loss for a 10% Buffer Strategy. The Buffer varies depending on the day of the Term. The Buffer at the end of a Term is 10%. Before the end of the Term, the Buffer is calculated daily as a prorated share of the annual 10% Buffer. For example, when 40% of a Term has elapsed, the Buffer on that day equals 40% of the Buffer that would apply at the end of the Term. When 80% of a Term has elapsed, the Buffer on that day equals 80% of the Buffer that would apply at the end of the Term. As a result, a negative Index Change of 15% would produce different Vested Losses at the following junctures:

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Day 146 of Term:

Days Remaining to last Market Day of Term: 219

Buffer: 10% x (365-219)/365 = 4%

Vested Loss: 15% - 4% = 11%

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Day 292 of Term:

Days Remaining to last Market Day of Term: 73

Buffer: 10% x (365-73)/365 = 8%

Vested Loss: 15% - 8% = 7%

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• End of Term:

Buffer: 10%

Vested Loss: 15% -10% = 5%

***No Vesting Factor****.* A Vesting Factor does not apply when the Vested Loss is calculated. This means that all of the negative Index Change is taken into account when calculating the Vested Loss for a given Indexed Strategy for a given Term.

*Example*. On the date of Surrender, your entire Account Value of $100,000 is allocated to the S&P 500 Growth Strategy, which has a 10% Maximum Loss. You Surrender your Contract before the end of a Term. For this example, we assume that you did not take any withdrawals before you Surrender your Contract. Assume there is a negative Index Change of 12.5% on the day that you Surrender your Contract. Because the Index Change exceeds the Maximum Loss, the Maximum Loss applies and limits the Index Change to 10%. As a result, the Vested Loss is 10%. The Investment Base on the date of Surrender is $100,000. The Vested Loss that applies upon Surrender will be $10,000 ($100,000 x 0.10 = $10,000) and the amount payable will be $90,000 minus any related Early Withdrawal Charge.

**Effect of Vested Gains and Losses** 

Here is a summary of the effect of Vested Gains and Losses in various situations.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Vested Gain | A Vested Gain increases the Indexed Strategy value. | If you take a withdrawal, the Investment Base will be reduced by less than the actual amount of the withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge because of the Vested Gain. |
| Vested Loss | A Vested Loss reduces the Indexed Strategy value. | If you take a withdrawal, the Investment Base will be reduced by more than the actual amount of the withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge because of the Vested Loss. |
| Additional Information | Any change in an Indexed Strategy value will affect the Account Value, which is used to determine the Surrender Value, the Annuity Payout Value and the Death Benefit Value. | If you take a withdrawal, you will receive the amount you requested and the Indexed Strategy value will be reduced by the amount of the withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge. |

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**Asymmetrical Impact of Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategies Using the Same Index** 

A Growth/-10% Floor Strategy and a 10% Buffer Strategy that use the same Index will often perform differently over identical time periods. These divergent results are produced by variations in the methods used to calculate Vested Gains and Vested Losses for Growth Strategies and Buffer Strategies. You should consider these variations if you are choosing between a Growth Strategy and a Buffer Strategy, and whether either is consistent with your income needs and risk tolerance. Currently, the only Index used by both a Growth Strategy and a Buffer Strategy is the S&P 500 Index.

**<u>Vested Gain Variations</u>**

Vested Gains for Growth Strategies and Buffer Strategies are calculated using the same formula, but that formula can produce different results when different Maximum Gains are applied. The Maximum Gain for a Buffer Strategy generally will be higher than the Maximum Gain for a Growth Strategy that uses the same Index. This is because the maximum amount of money you can lose is larger for a Buffer Strategy than a Growth Strategy.

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For example, if we set a 12% Maximum Gain for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy and a 14% Maximum Gain for the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy, then the Vested Gains for identical investments in these two strategies would be the same over any period that the Index Value increased up to 12%, but would diverge over any period that the Index Value increased by more than 12%. During any such period, the Vested Gains for the Growth Strategy would be capped at 12%, while the Vested Gains for the Buffer Strategy may reach as high as 14%. As a result, it is possible for the Buffer Strategy to increase in value to a greater extent than the Growth Strategy.

**<u>Vested Loss Variations</u>**

The formulas used to calculate Vested Losses for Growth Strategies and Buffer Strategies are similar, except Vested Losses for a Growth Strategy are limited by a Maximum Loss, while Vested Losses for a Buffer Strategy are limited by a Buffer. The 10% Maximum Loss for a Growth Strategy does not change throughout the Term, which means that any negative Index Change between 0% and -10% is taken into account whenever Vested Loss is calculated. The amount of the Buffer for a Buffer Strategy increases each day during the course of each Term, culminating with a 10% Buffer at the end of each Term. This means that any a negative Index Change from 0 to -10% is disregarded when calculating Vested Loss at the end of the Term, but a smaller portion of a negative Index Change is disregarded when measuring a Vested Loss before the end of the Term.

The differences in the impact of negative Index Changes on a Growth Strategy and a Buffer Strategy using the same Index over the same Term depends on two variables: the size of the negative Index Change and the size of the Buffer on the date that the Vested Losses are measured.

The following chart illustrates how changes to these two variables impact Vested Losses for a Growth Strategy and a Buffer Strategy using the same Index over the same Term:

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| | | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term | Impact of Negative Index Changes on Growth and Buffer Strategy Values Throughout Term |
|  | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: | Vested Loss on: |
|  | Day 73 | Day 73 | Day 146 | Day 146 | Day 219 | Day 219 | Day 292 | Day 292 | End of Term | End of Term |
|  | (20% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (20% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (40% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (40% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (60% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (60% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (80% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (80% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (100% of Term<br>Elapsed) | (100% of Term<br>Elapsed) |
| Index Change | Growth<br>Strategy | Buffer<br>Strategy<br>2% Buffer | Growth<br>Strategy | Buffer<br>Strategy<br>4% Buffer | Growth<br>Strategy | Buffer<br>Strategy<br>6% Buffer | Growth<br>Strategy | Buffer<br>Strategy<br>8% Buffer | Growth<br>Strategy | Buffer<br>Strategy<br>10% Buffer |
|  0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% |
|  -2% | -2% | 0% | -2% | 0% | -2% | 0% | -2% | 0% | -2% | 0% |
|  -4% | -4% | -2% | -4% | 0% | -4% | 0% | -4% | 0% | -4% | 0% |
|  -6% | -6% | -4% | -6% | -2% | -6% | 0% | -6% | 0% | -6% | 0% |
|  -8% | -8% | -6% | -8% | -4% | -8% | -2% | -8% | 0% | -8% | 0% |
|  -10% | -10% | -8% | -10% | -6% | -10% | -4% | -10% | -2% | -10% | 0% |
|  -12% | -10% | -10% | -10% | -8% | -10% | -6% | -10% | -4% | -10% | -2% |
|  -14% | -10% | -12% | -10% | -10% | -10% | -8% | -10% | -6% | -10% | -4% |
|  -16% | -10% | -14% | -10% | -12% | -10% | -10% | -10% | -8% | -10% | -6% |
|  -18% | -10% | -16% | -10% | -14% | -10% | -12% | -10% | -10% | -10% | -8% |
|  -20% | -10% | -18% | -10% | -16% | -10% | -14% | -10% | -12% | -10% | -10% |
|  -22% | -10% | -20% | -10% | -18% | -10% | -16% | -10% | -14% | -10% | -12% |

---

In general, Growth Strategies are designed to protect against larger negative Index Changes, while Buffer Strategies are designed to protect against smaller negative Index Changes. When identical investments are made in a Growth Strategy and a Buffer Strategy using the same Index over the same Term, a negative change in the Index produces the following results:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a negative Index Change between 0% and -10%, measured on any day, would
have a greater negative impact on the Growth Strategy

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a negative Index Change between -10% and -20% could have a greater negative impact on either strategy, depending on the Index Change and the size of the Buffer on the day the Index Change is measured

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a negative Index Change below -20%, measured on any day, would have a
greater negative impact on the Buffer Strategy

**See Examples—Impact of Withdrawals on Contract Values and Amounts Realized section below for examples that illustrate these concepts.** 

**Examples—Impact of Withdrawals on Contract Values and Amounts Realized** 

These examples are intended to show you how a withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy before the end of the Term affects the Indexed Strategy values, Vested Gains and Losses, and amounts realized at the end of the Term. These examples assume that you allocate a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 Growth/-10% Floor Strategy and a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 10% Buffer Strategy. The examples assume that the withdrawals are covered by the Free Withdrawal Allowance and therefore no Early Withdrawal Charges apply. If Early Withdrawal Charges did apply, the amounts realized at the end of the Term would be reduced by both the withdrawal and the amount of the Early Withdrawal Charge.

**Example A: Withdrawal When Index Rising Steadily** 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $10,000 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 1040 | 1040 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1040 - 1000) / 1000 = 4.00% | (1040 - 1000) / 1000 = 4.00% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 4.00% | 4.00% |
|  Vesting Factor on Day 146 | 25% | 25% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 4.00% x 25% = 1.00% Vested Gain | 4.00% x 25% = 1.00% Vested Gain |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $50,000 x 1.00% = $500 Vested Gain | $50,000 x 1.00% = $500 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 + $500 = $50,500 | $50,000 + $500 = $50,500 |
|  Amount Withdrawn | $5000 | $5000 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $5,000 / $50,500 = 9.90% | $5,000 / $50,500 = 9.90% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .0990 = $4,950 | $50,000 x .0990 = $4,950 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $50,000 - $4,950 = $45,050 | $50,000 - $4,950 = $45,050 |
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $45050 | $45050 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 1130 | 1130 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1130 - 1000) / 1000 = 13.00% | (1130 - 1000) / 1000 = 13.00% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12.00% | Gain of 14.00% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 12.00% | 13.00% |
|  Vesting Factor at Term End | 100% | 100% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 12.00% x 100% = 12.00% Vested Gain | 13.00% x 100% = 13.00% Vested Gain |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $45,050 x 12.00% = $5,406 Vested Gain | $45,050 x 13.00% = $5,857 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $45,050 + $5,406 = $50,456 | $45,050 + $5,857 = $50,907 |

---

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $55,456 ($5,000 withdrawal plus the $50,456 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

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Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $56,000 ($50,000 Investment Base plus $6,000 gain ($50,000 x 12.00%)).

This hypothetical Strategy value of $56,000 exceeds the amount realized of $55,456 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the gain at the time of the withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be less than the actual
amount withdrawn ($5,000 - $4,950 = $50); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent gain at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that gain to be
smaller than the hypothetical gain ($5,406 - $6,000 = -$594).

The result for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy ($50 - $594 = -$544) is equal to the difference between the hypothetical Strategy value and the amount realized ($56,000 - $544 = $55,456).

<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $55,907 ($5,000 withdrawal plus the $50,907 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $56,500 ($50,000 Investment Base plus $6,500 gain ($50,000 x 13.00%)). This hypothetical Strategy value exceeds the amount realized for the same reasons described above for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy.

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy outperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $451 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($55,907) exceeds the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($55,456) because the Growth Strategy had a lower Maximum Gain, and the Index Change at the end of the Term exceeded the Growth Strategy's lower Maximum Gain.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example B: Withdrawal When Index Falls and Then Rises** 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $10,000 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 880 | 880 |
|  Negative Index Change | (880 - 1000) / 1000 = -12.00% | (880 - 1000) / 1000 = -12.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer on Day 146 of Term | N/A | 10% x (365-219)/365 = 4.00% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -4.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -12.00% - -4.00% = -8.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested<br>Loss | -8.00% x 100% = 8.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $50,000 x 10.00% = $5,000 Vested Loss | $50,000 x 8.00% = $4,000 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 - $5,000 = $45,000 | $50,000 - $4,000 = $46,000 |
|  Amount Withdrawn\* | $4945 | $5055 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $4,945 / $45,000 = 10.99% | $5,055 / $46,000 = 10.99% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .1099 = $5,495 | $50,000 x .1099 = $5,495 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $50,000 - $5,495 = $44,505 | $50,000 - $5,495 = $44,505 |

---

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $44505 | $44505 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 1130 | 1130 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1130 - 1000) / 1000 = 13% | (1130 - 1000) / 1000 = 13% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 12.00% | 13.00% |
|  Vesting Factor at Term End | 100% | 100% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 12.00% x 100% = 12.00% Vested Gain | 13.00% x 100% = 13.00% Vested<br>Gain |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $44,505 x 12.00% = $5,341 Vested Gain | $44,505 x 13% = $5,786 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $44,505 + $5,341 = $49,846 | $44,505 + $5,786 = $50,291 |

---

\* Note: The withdrawal is taken proportionally from each Indexed Strategy, based on the ratio of that Strategy's value to the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal. In this example, the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal was $91,000 ($45,000 + $46,000). The S&P 500 Growth Strategy value was 49.45% of that total value ($45,000 / $91,000 = 49.45%), so 49.45% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($4945) was taken from it. The S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value was 50.55% of that total value ($46,000 / $91,000 = 50.55%), so 50.55% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($5055) was taken from it. 

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $54,791 ($4,945 withdrawal plus the $49,846 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $56,000 ($50,000 Investment Base plus $6,000 gain ($50,000 x 12.00%)).

This hypothetical Strategy value of $56,000 exceeds the amount realized of $54,791 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the loss at the time of the withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be greater than the actual
amount withdrawn ($4,945 - $5,495 = -$550); and

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent gain at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that gain to be
smaller than the hypothetical gain ($5,341 - $6,000 = -$659).

The result for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy (-$550 + -$659 = -$1,209) is equal to the difference between the hypothetical Strategy value and the amount realized ($56,000 - $1,209 = $54,791).

<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $55,346 ($5,055 withdrawal plus the $50,291 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $56,500 ($50,000 Investment Base plus $6,500 gain ($50,000 x 13.00%)). This hypothetical Strategy value exceeds the amount realized for the same reasons described above for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy.

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy outperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $555 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($55,346) exceeds the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($54,791) for two reasons: (1) at the time of the withdrawal, the Buffer absorbed more of the negative Index Change (4 percentage points of the -12.00% change) than the Maximum Loss absorbed (2 percentage points of the -12.00% change), thus resulting in more of the withdrawal being taken from the Buffer Strategy's value even though the Investment Base of both strategies was reduced by the same amount, and (2) the Index Change at the end of the Term exceeded the Growth Strategy's lower Maximum Gain, thus increasing the Buffer Strategy's value to a greater extent.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example C: Withdrawal When Index Falling Steadily** 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $10,000 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 980 | 980 |
|  Negative Index Change | (980 - 1000) / 1000 = -2.00% | (980 - 1000) / 1000 = -2.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -2.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer on Day 146 of Term | N/A | 10% x (365-219)/365 = 4.00% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | Entire -2.00% Index Change |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | 0% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -2.00% x 100% = 2.00% Vested Loss | 0.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $50,000 x 2.00% = $1,000 Vested Loss | $0 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 - $1,000 = $49,000 | $50,000 - $0 = $50,000 |
|  Amount Withdrawn\* | $4949 | $5051 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $4,949 / $49,000 = 10.10% | $5,051 / $50,000 = 10.10% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .1010 = $5,050 | $50,000 x .1010 = $5,050 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $50,000 - $5,051 = $44,950 | $50,000 - $5,051 = $44,950 |

---

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $44950 | $44950 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 860 | 860 |
|  Negative Index Change | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer at End of Term | N/A | 10% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -10.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -14.00% - (-10.00%) = -4.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested<br>Loss | -4.00% x 100% = 4.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $44,950 x 10.00% = $4,495 Vested Loss | $44,950 x 4.00% = $1,798 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $44,950 - $4,495 = $40,455 | $44,950 - $1,798 = $43,152 |

---

\* Note: The withdrawal is taken proportionally from each Indexed Strategy, based on the ratio of that Strategy's value to the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal. In this example, the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal was $99,000 ($49,000 + $50,000). The S&P 500 Growth Strategy value was 49.49% of that total value ($49,000 / $99,000 = 49.49%), so 49.49% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($4949) was taken from it. The S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value was 50.51% of that total value ($50,000 / $99,000 = 50.51%), so 50.51% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($5051) was taken from it. 

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $45,404 ($4,949 withdrawal plus the $40,455 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $45,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $5,000 loss ($50,000 x -10.00%)).

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The amount realized of $45,504 exceeds this hypothetical Strategy value of $45,000 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the loss at the time of the withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be greater than the actual
amount withdrawn ($4,949 - $5,050 = -$101); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent loss at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that loss to be
smaller than the hypothetical loss ($5,000 - $4,495 = $505).

The result for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy ($505 - $101 = $404) is equal to the difference between the amount realized and the hypothetical Strategy value ($45,403 - $403 = $45,000).

<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $48,203 ($5,051 withdrawal plus the $43,152 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $48,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $2,000 loss ($50,000 x -4.00%)). This hypothetical Strategy value is lower than the amount realized for the same reasons described above for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy.

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy outperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $2,799 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($48,203) exceeds the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($45,404) for two reasons: (1) at the time of the withdrawal, the Buffer absorbed all of the negative Index Change of -2.00%, while the Maximum Loss did not absorb any of the negative Index Change, thus resulting in more of the withdrawal being taken from the Buffer Strategy's value even though the Investment Base of both strategies was reduced by the same amount, and (2) at the end of the Term, the Buffer absorbed more of the negative Index Change (10 percentage points of the -14.00% change) than the Maximum Loss absorbed (4 percentage points of the -14.00% change), thus reducing the Strategy value of the Growth Strategy to a greater extent.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example D: Withdrawal When Index Falling Steadily and Precipitously** 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $10,000 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 850 | 850 |
|  Negative Index Change | (850 - 1000) / 1000 = -15.00% | (850 - 1000) / 1000 = -15.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer on Day 146 of Term | N/A | 10% x (365-219)/365 = 4.00% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -4.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -15.00% - (-4.00%) = -11.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested<br>Loss | -11.00% x 100% = 11.00% Vested<br>Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $50,000 x 10.00% = $5,000 Vested Loss | $50,000 x 11.00% = $5,500 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 - $5,000 = $45,000 | $50,000 - $5,500 = $44,500 |
|  Amount Withdrawn\* | $5028 | $4972 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $5,028/ $45,000 = 11.17% | $4,972/ $44,500 = 11.17% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .1117 = $5,585 | $50,000 x .1117 = $5,585 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $50,000 - $5,585 = $44,415 | $50,000 - $5,585 = $44,415 |

---

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $44415 | $44415 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 750 | 750 |
|  Negative Index Change | (750 - 1000) / 1000 = -25.00% | (750 - 1000) / 1000 = -25.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer at End of Term | N/A | 10% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -10.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -25.00% - (-10.00%) = -15.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested<br>Loss | -15.00% x 100% = 15.00% Vested<br>Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $44,415 x 10.00% = $4,442 Vested Loss | $44,415 x 15.00% = $6,662 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $44,415 - $4,442 = $39,973 | $44,415 - $6,662 = $37,753 |

---

\* Note: The withdrawal is taken proportionally from each Indexed Strategy, based on the ratio of that Strategy's value to the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal. In this example, the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal was $89,500 ($45,000 + $44,500). The S&P 500 Growth Strategy value was 50.28% of that total value ($45,000 / $89,500 = 50.28%), so 50.28% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($5028) was taken from it. The S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value was 49.72% of that total value ($44,500 / $89,500 = 49.72%), so 49.72% of the $10,000 withdrawal ($4972) was taken from it. 

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $45,001 ($5,028 withdrawal plus the $39,973 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $45,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $5,000 loss ($50,000 x -10.00%)).

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The amount realized equals (after taking into account the effects of rounding) this hypothetical Strategy value of $45,000 because the Maximum Loss equally limited the negative Index Change both at the time of withdrawal and at the end of the Term.

<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $42,725 ($4,972 withdrawal plus the $37,753 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $42,500 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $7,500 loss ($50,000 x -15.00%)).

The amount realized of $42,725 exceeds this hypothetical Strategy value of $42,500 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the loss at the time of the withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be greater than the actual
amount withdrawn ($4,972 - $5,585 = -$613); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent loss at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that loss to be
smaller than the hypothetical loss ($7,500 - $6,662 = -$838).

The result for the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy (-$613 + $838 = $225) is equal to the difference between the amount realized and the hypothetical Strategy value ($42,725 - $225 = $42,500).

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy underperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $2,276 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($42,725) is smaller than the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($45,001) for two reasons: (1) at the time of the withdrawal, the Buffer absorbed less of the negative Index Change of -15.00%, thus resulting in more of the withdrawal being taken from the Buffer Strategy's value even though the Investment Base of both strategies was reduced by the same amount, and (2) at the end of the Term, the Buffer absorbed less of the negative Index Change (10 percentage points of the -25.00% change) than the Maximum Loss absorbed (15 percentage points of the -25.00% change), thus reducing the Strategy value of the Buffer Strategy to a greater extent.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example E: Withdrawal When Index Rises and Then Falls** 

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $10,000 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 1080 | 1080 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1080 - 1000) / 1000 = 8.00% | (1080 - 1000) / 1000 = 8.00% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 8.00% | 8.00% |
|  Vesting Factor on Day 146 | 25% | 25% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 8.00% x 25% = 2.00% Vested Gain | 8.00% x 25% = 2.00% Vested Gain |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $50,000 x 2.00% = $1,000 Vested Gain | $50,000 x 2.00% = $1,000 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 + $1,000 = $51,000 | $50,000 + $1,000 = $51,000 |
|  Amount Withdrawn | $5000 | $5000 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $5,000 / $51,000 = 9.80% | $5,000 / $51,000 = 9.80% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .0980 = $4,900 | $50,000 x .0980 = $4,900 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $50,000 - $4,900 = $45,100 | $50,000 - $4,900 = $45,100 |

---

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $45100 | $45100 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 860 | 860 |
|  Negative Index Change | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer at End of Term | N/A | 10% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -10.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -14% - (-10%) = -4.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested Loss | -4.00% x 100% = 4.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $45,098 x 10.00% = $4,510 Vested Loss | $45,098 x 4.00% = $1,804 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $45,100 - $4,510 = $40,590 | $45,100 - $1,804 = $43,296 |

---

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $45,590 ($5,000 withdrawal plus the $40,590 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $45,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $5,000 loss ($50,000 x -10.00%)).

The amount realized of $45,590 exceeds this hypothetical Strategy value of $45,000 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the gain at the time of the withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be less than the actual
amount withdrawn ($5,000 - $4,900 = $100); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent loss at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that loss to be
smaller than the hypothetical loss ($5,000 - $4,510 = $490).

The result for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy ($100 + $490 = $590) is equal to the difference between the amount realized and the hypothetical Strategy value ($45,590 - $590 = $45,000).

<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $48,296 ($5,000 withdrawal plus the $43,296 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $48,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $2,000 loss ($50,000 x -4.00%)). This hypothetical Strategy value is lower than the amount realized for the same reasons described above for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy outperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $2,706 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($48,296) exceeds the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($45,590) because, at the end of the Term, the Buffer absorbed more of the negative Index Change (10 percentage points of the -14.00% change) than the Maximum Loss absorbed (4 percentage points of the -14.00% change), thus reducing the Strategy value of the Growth Strategy to a greater extent.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example F: Multiple Withdrawals in a Volatile Market** 

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Impact of $2,500 Withdrawal on Day 146 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 | $50000 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 1040 | 1040 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1040 - 1000) / 1000 = 4.00% | (1040 - 1000) / 1000 = 4.00% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 4.00% | 4.00% |
|  Vesting Factor on Day 146 | 25% | 25% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 4.00% x 25% = 1.00% Vested Gain | 4.00% x 25% = 1.00% Vested Gain |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $50,000 x 1.00% = $500 Vested Gain | $50,000 x 1.00% = $500 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50,000 + $500 = $50,500 | $50,000 + $500 = $50,500 |
|  Amount Withdrawn | $1250 | $1250 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $1,250 / $50,500 = 2.48% | $1,250 / $50,500 = 2.48% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $50,000 x .0248 = $1,240 | $50,000 x .0248 = $1,240 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 146 Withdrawal | $50,000 - $1,240 = $48,760 | $50,000 - $1,240 = $48,760 |
| **Impact of $3,500 Withdrawal on Day 219 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 146 Withdrawal | $48760 | $48760 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 970 | 970 |
|  Negative Index Change | (970 - 1000) / 1000 = -3.00% | (970 - 1000) / 1000 = -3.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -3.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer on Day 219 of Term | N/A | 10% x (365-146)/365 = 6.00% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | Entire -3% Index Change |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | 0.00% |
|  Vested Loss as Percentage | -3.00% x 100% = 3.00% Vested Loss | 0.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $48,760 x 3.00% = $1,463 Vested Loss | $0 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $48,760 - $1,463 = $47,297 | $48,760 - $0 = $48,760 |
|  Amount Withdrawn\* | $1723 | $1777 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $1,723 / $47,297 = 3.64% | $1,777 / $48,760 = 3.64% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $48,760 x .0364 = $1,775 | $48,760 x .0364 = $1,775 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 219 Withdrawal | $48,760 - $1,775 = $46,985 | $48,760 - $1,775 = $46,985 |
| **Impact of $4,000 Withdrawal on Day 292 of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 219 Withdrawal | $46985 | $46985 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Date of Withdrawal | 1150 | 1150 |
|  Positive Index Change | (1150 - 1000) / 1000 = 15.00% | (1150 - 1000) / 1000 = 15.00% |
|  Maximum Gain | Gain of 12% | Gain of 14% |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 12.00% | 14.00% |
|  Vesting Factor in Month 8 | 50% | 50% |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 12.00% x 50% = 6.00% Vested Gain | 14.00% x 50% = 7.00% Vested Gain |

---

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $46,985 x 6.00% = $2,819 Vested Gain | $46,985 x 7.00% = $3,289 Vested Gain |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $46,985 + $2,819 = $49,804 | $46,985 + $3,289 = $50,274 |
|  Amount Withdrawn\* | $1991 | $2009 |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | $1,991 / $49,804 = 4.00% | $2,009 / $50,274 = 4.00% |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $46,985 x .0400 = $1,879 | $46,985 x .0400 = $1,879 |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 292 Withdrawal | $46,985 - $1,879 = $45,106 | $46,985 - $1,879 = $45,106 |

---

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Value at End of Term** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Day 292 Withdrawal | $45106 | $45106 |
|  Index Value at Term Start | 1000 | 1000 |
|  Index Value at Term End | 860 | 860 |
|  Negative Index Change | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% | (860 - 1000) / 1000 = -14.00% |
|  Maximum Loss | Loss of 10% | N/A |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -10.00% | N/A |
|  Buffer at End of Term | N/A | 10% Buffer |
|  Negative Index Change Absorbed by Buffer | N/A | -10.00% |
|  Negative Index Change after Buffer | N/A | -14.00% - (-10.00%) = -4.00% |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -10.00% x 100% = 10.00% Vested Loss | -4.00% x 100% = 4.00% Vested Loss |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | $45,106 x 10.00% = $4,511 Vested Loss | $45,106 x 4.00% = $1,804 Vested Loss |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $45,106 - $4,511 = $40,595 | $45,106 - $1,804 = $43,302 |

---

\* Note: The withdrawal is taken proportionally from each Indexed Strategy, based on the ratio of that Strategy's value to the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal. In this example, on Day 219 the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal was $96,057 ($47,297 + $48,760). The S&P 500 Growth Strategy value was 49.24% of that total value ($47,297 / $96,057 = 49.24%), so 49.24% of the $3,500 withdrawal ($1723) was taken from it. The S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value was 50.76% of that total value ($48,760 / $96,057 = 50.76%), so 50.76% of the $3,500 withdrawal ($1777) was taken from it. 

In this example, on Day 292 the total value of all Indexed Strategies immediately before the withdrawal was $100,078 ($49,804 + $50,274). The S&P 500 Growth Strategy value was 49.77% of that total value ($49,804 / $100,078 = 49.77%), so 49.77% of the $4,000 withdrawal ($1,991) was taken from it. The S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value was 50.23% of that total value ($50,274 / $100,078 = 50.23%), so 50.23% of the $4,000 withdrawal ($2,009) was taken from it.

<u>S&P 500 Growth Strategy</u> 

In this example, the amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Growth Strategy at the end of the Term is $45,559 ($4,964 total withdrawals plus the $40,595 Strategy value at the end of the Term).

Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Growth Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $45,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $5,000 loss ($50,000 x -10.00%)).

The amount realized of $45,561 exceeds this hypothetical Strategy value of $45,000 because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the gains at the time of the $1,250 and $1,991 withdrawals caused the reductions in the Investment Base to be
less than the actual amounts withdrawn ($1,250 - $1,240 = $10 and $1,991 - $1,879 = $112);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the loss at the time of the $1,723 withdrawal caused the reduction in the Investment Base to be greater than the
actual amount withdrawn ($1,723 - $1,775 = -$52); and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the subsequent loss at the term end was calculated on a smaller Investment Base, which caused that loss to be
less than the hypothetical loss ($5,000 - $4,511 = $489).

The result for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy ($10 + $112 - $52 + $489 = $559) is equal to the difference between the amount realized and the hypothetical Strategy value ($45,559 - $559 = $45,000).

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
<u>S&P 500 Buffer Strategy</u> 

The amount you realized on your $50,000 investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy at the end of the Term is $48,338 ($5,036 total withdrawals plus the $43,302 Strategy value at the end of the Term). Had no withdrawal occurred, your S&P 500 Buffer Strategy value at the end of the Term would have been $48,000 ($50,000 Investment Base minus $2,000 loss ($50,000 x -4.00%)). This hypothetical Strategy value is lower than the amount realized for the same reasons described above for the S&P 500 Growth Strategy.

Your investment in the S&P 500 Buffer Strategy outperformed the S&P 500 Growth Strategy by $2,779 in this example. The amount you realized under the Buffer Strategy ($48,338) exceeds the amount you realized under the Growth Strategy ($45,559) for three reasons: (1) at the time of the Day 219 withdrawal, the Buffer absorbed all of the negative Index Change of -3.00%, while the Maximum Loss did not absorb any of the negative Index Change, thus resulting in more of the withdrawal being taken from the Buffer Strategy's value even though the Investment Base of both strategies was reduced by the same amount, (2) at the time of the Day 292 withdrawal, the Index Change exceeded the Maximum Gain of both the Buffer Strategy and the Growth Strategy, but the Buffer Strategy had a higher Maximum Gain than the Growth Strategy, resulting in more of the withdrawal being taken from the Buffer Strategy's value even though the Investment Base of both strategies was reduced by the same amount, and (3) at the end of the Term, the Buffer absorbed more of the negative Index Change (10 percentage points of the -14.00% change) than the Maximum Loss absorbed (4 percentage points of the -14.00% change), thus reducing the Strategy value of the Growth Strategy to a greater extent.

**Strategy Renewals and Reallocations at Term End** 

**Renewals** 

At the end of each Term of a given Crediting Strategy, we will apply the ending value of that Strategy to a new Term of that same Strategy. The amount applied to a new Term of the same Strategy will not include any amount that is moved to a different Strategy as part of a reallocation at the Term end.

**Reallocations** 

At the end of a Term, you may reallocate the ending values of the Crediting Strategies for that Term among the available Strategies. You can only reallocate amounts from one Crediting Strategy to another at the end of the Term for which such amount is being held. You cannot make a reallocation at any other time.

We will send you written notice at least 30 days before the end of a Term to provide you with the opportunity to make a reallocation. We must receive your Request in Good Order for a reallocation on or before the last day of the Term. For example, if the end of a Term falls on a weekend, we must receive your request on the last Market Day before that weekend.

**Limitations** 

Reallocations must be in whole percentages that total 100%. We reserve the right to round amounts up or down to make whole percentages, and to reduce or increase amounts proportionally in order to total 100%.

Any renewal or reallocation will be subject to Strategy availability, minimums, and maximums. Currently there are no limitations on the amounts that may be applied to a Crediting Strategy. We may establish minimum and maximum amounts or percentages that may be applied to a given Crediting Strategy for any future Term in our discretion. We will notify you of any such minimum or maximum.

The new Term of each Strategy is subject to the Declared Rate or Maximum Gain in effect for that Strategy for that new Term. For example, the Declared Rate for a new Term of the Declared Rate Strategy may be different than the Declared Rate for the Term that is ending. Likewise, the Maximum Gain for an Indexed Strategy for a new Term may be different than the Maximum Gain for that Indexed Strategy for the Term that is ending.

**Availability of Strategies** 

At the end of a Term, we may eliminate a particular Strategy in our discretion. We will send you a written notice at least 30 days before the end of each Term with information about the Strategies that will be available for the next Term. At least 10 days before the next Term starts, we will post the Declared Rate and the Maximum Gains that will apply for that next Term on our website. The Previous Notice Methods section of this prospectus describes a different process used to provide notice of the Declared Rate and the Maximum Gains that will apply to contracts issued prior to May 1, 2019.

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We are not obligated to offer the Declared Rate Strategy or any one particular Indexed Strategy. At the end of a Term, we can add or stop offering any Strategy at our discretion. For example, we could stop offering Growth/-10% Floor Strategies after the first five Contract Years. We may limit the availability of a Strategy for a Term that would extend beyond the Annuity Payout Initiation Date. All Strategies may not be available in all states.

One Indexed Strategy will always be available. If the Declared Rate Strategy is no longer available, then we must offer an Indexed Strategy that has a Maximum Loss of 0%. Unlike a Declared Rate Strategy, no earnings are guaranteed for an Indexed Strategy.

If we add or stop offering a Strategy at the end of a Term, we will send you a notification. If funds are held in a Strategy that will no longer be available after the end of a Term, the funds will remain in that Strategy until the end of that Term.

If you have allocated money to an Indexed Strategy and that Indexed Strategy will not be available for the next Term, then the Bailout right will apply. In this case, you may withdraw money from that Indexed Strategy at the end of the current Term without incurring an Early Withdrawal Charge, or you may reallocate amounts to another Strategy. If you have allocated money to the Declared Rate Strategy and it will not be available for the next Term, the Bailout right will not apply.

**Reallocations to Default Strategies** 

At the end of a Term, to the extent any amount cannot be applied to a given Crediting Strategy for the next Term because that Strategy is no longer available or the amount is under the minimum or over the maximum for that Strategy for the new Term, if you do not withdraw the funds pursuant to your Bailout Right or reallocate them to another Index Strategy, then we will reallocate the amount to a default Strategy.

Here are the rules that will apply to reallocations to a default Strategy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• We will reallocate to the Declared Rate Strategy.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If no Declared Rate Strategy is available, then we will designate an Indexed Strategy that has a Maximum Loss of
0% and we will reallocate to that designated Strategy.

If the amount to be applied exceeds the maximum, then the default reallocation rules will apply only to the excess amount. For example, if the maximum amount for a Crediting Strategy is $50,000 and the amount to be applied is $54,000, then the default reallocation rules will apply only to the excess $4,000.

**Cash Benefit** 

**Surrender** 

You may Surrender your Contract at any time before the earlier of: (1) the Annuity Payout Initiation Date; or (2) a death for which a Death Benefit is payable. The right to Surrender may be restricted if your Contract is purchased under an employer plan subject to IRC Section 401 (pension, profit sharing, and 401(k) plans), IRC Section 403(b) (tax-sheltered annuity plans), or IRC Section 457(b) (governmental deferred compensation plans).

A Surrender must be made by a Request in Good Order. The amount paid upon Surrender is the Surrender Value. If you Surrender your Contract, the Contract terminates.

**Withdrawals** 

You may take a withdrawal from your Contract at any time before the earliest of: (1) the Annuity Payout Initiation Date; (2) a death for which a Death Benefit is payable; or (3) the date that this Contract is Surrendered. The right to withdraw may be restricted if your Contract is purchased under an employer plan subject to IRC Section 401 (pension, profit sharing, and 401(k) plans), IRC Section 403(b) (tax-sheltered annuity plans), or IRC Section 457(b) (governmental deferred compensation plans).

A withdrawal must be made by a Request in Good Order. The amount of any withdrawal must at least $500. If the withdrawal would reduce the Account Value to less than the minimum value of $5,000, we will treat the withdrawal request as a request to withdraw the maximum amount that may be taken without reducing your Account Value to less than $5,000.

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We will withdraw funds from your Account Value as of the date on which we receive your Request in Good Order or any later specified effective date. Unless you instruct us otherwise by a Request in Good Order prior to the date of the withdrawal, a withdrawal will be taken in the following order:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• first proportionally from funds that then qualify for a waiver of the Early Withdrawal Charge pursuant to the
Bailout right;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• then from the Purchase Payment Account;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• then proportionally from the Declared Rate Strategies until all Declared Rate Strategies are exhausted; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• then proportionally from Indexed Strategies.

**Effect of Withdrawals** 

A withdrawal reduces the Account Value, which in turn reduces the amount payable upon Surrender, applied to the Annuity Payout Benefit, or payable as the Death Benefit.

If an Early Withdrawal Charge applies to your withdrawal, you will receive the amount that you requested, and your Account Value will be reduced by the amount you receive plus the amount needed to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge. A withdrawal from an Indexed Strategy other than at the end of a Term also reduces the Investment Base used to calculate the Vested Gain or Loss for the Term. The reduction in the Investment Base for a withdrawal and any related Early Withdrawal Charge is proportional to the reduction in the Account Value. See Vested Gains and Losses section above.

**Automatic Withdrawals** 

You may elect to automatically withdraw money from your Contract under any automatic withdrawal program that we offer. Your Account Value must be at least $10,000 in order to make an automatic withdrawal election. The minimum amount of each automatic withdrawal payment is $100. Automatic withdrawals will be taken from the Purchase Payment Account and Strategies of your Contract in the same order as any other withdrawal.

Subject to the terms and conditions of the automatic withdrawal program, you may begin or discontinue automatic withdrawals at any time. You must give us at least 30 days' notice to change any automatic withdrawal instructions that are currently in place. Any request to begin, discontinue or change automatic withdrawals must be a Request in Good Order. We reserve the right to discontinue offering automatic withdrawals at any time.

Currently, we do not charge a fee to participate in an automatic withdrawal program. However, we reserve the right to impose an annual fee in such amount as we may then determine to be reasonable for participation in the automatic withdrawal program. If imposed, the fee will not exceed $30 annually.

Before electing an automatic withdrawal, you should consult with a financial advisor. Automatic withdrawals are similar to starting Annuity Payout Benefit payments, but will result in different taxation of payments and potentially a different amount of total payments over the life of your Contract. Automatic withdrawals will reduce the amount available under the Free Withdrawal Allowance described below. Unless a waiver applies, an Early Withdrawal Charge may apply to an automatic withdrawal during the Early Withdrawal Charge period.

**Exchanges, Transfers, and Rollovers** 

An amount paid on a withdrawal or surrender may be paid to or for another annuity or tax-qualified account in a tax-free exchange, transfer, or rollover to the extent allowed by federal tax law.

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**Examples—Amount Available for Withdrawal** 

The following examples are intended to help you understand the amount that may be available for withdrawal in different market environments.

**Example G: Amount Available for a Withdrawal When Index Rises** 

This example assumes:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you allocate a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 Growth/-10% Floor Strategy and a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 10% Buffer Strategy;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Contract Effective Date and the Term Start Date are both April 6, 2024;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Maximum Gain for the initial Term of the S&P 500 Growth Strategy is 12% and the S&P 500 Buffer
Strategy is 14%;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you request a $10,000 withdrawal on Day 146 of the Term (August 30, 2024);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you do not take any other withdrawals during the initial Term; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Term End Date is April 6, 2025.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Term Start Date—April 6, 2024** | S&P 500 Growth Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |  |
|  Strategy Value | $50000 | $50000 | See Footnote 1 below. |
|  Investment Base | $50000 | $50000 | See Footnote 1 below. |
|  Maximum Gain for Term | Gain<br>of<br>12% | Gain<br>of<br>14% | See Footnote 2 below. |
|  Index Value | 1900 | 1900 |  |
|  **Withdrawal Date—August 30, 2024** |  |  |  |
|  Index Value | 1976 | 1976 |  |
|  Positive Index Change | 4.00% | 4.00% | See Footnote 3 below. |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 4.00% | 4.00% | See Footnote 4 below. |
|  Vesting Factor on Day 146 | 25% | 25% | See Footnote 5 below. |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 1.00% | 1.00% | See Footnote 6 below. |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $500 | $500 | See Footnote 6 below. |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $50500 | $50500 | See Footnote 7 below. |
|  Amount of Withdrawal Requested | $10000 | $10000 |  |
|  Free Withdrawal Allowance | $5000 | $5000 | See Footnote 8 below. |
|  Early Withdrawal Charge | $435 | $435 | See Footnote 9 below. |
|  Total Amount Withdrawn | $10435 | $10435 | See Footnote 10 below. |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | 20.66% | 20.66% | See Footnote 11 below. |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $10330 | $10330 | See Footnote 11 below. |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $39670 | $39670 | See Footnote 12 below. |
|  Strategy Value after Withdrawal | $40065 | $40065 | See Footnote 13 below. |
|  **Term End Date—April 6, 2024** |  |  |  |
|  Index Value | 2033 | 2033 |  |
|  Positive Index Change | 7.00% | 7.00% | See Footnote 14 below. |
|  Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 7.00% | 7.00% | See Footnote 15 below. |
|  Vesting Factor at Term End | 100% | 100% | See Footnote 16 below. |
|  Vested Gain as a Percentage | 7.00% | 7.00% | See Footnote 17 below. |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $39670 | $39670 | See Footnote 12 below. |
|  Vested Gain in Dollars | $2777 | $2777 | See Footnote 17 below. |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $42447 | $42447 | See Footnote 18 below. |

---

***Footnote 1.*** On the Term Start Date, the Strategy value is equal to the amount applied to the Strategy on the Term Start Date. The amount applied on the Term Start Date is also the beginning Investment Base.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
***Footnote 2.*** The Maximum Gain is the largest positive Index Change for a Term taken into account to determine the Vested Gain. In this example, the Maximum Gain is 12% (for the Growth Strategy) or 14% (for the Buffer Strategy), which means it will not affect the calculation of Vested Gain unless the Index goes up more than 12% or 14%, respectively.

***Footnote 3.*** The Index Change is equal to the percentage change in the Index Value measured from the Term Start Date to the withdrawal date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | (Index Value on withdrawal date - Index Value on Term Start Date) / Index Value on Term Start Date |
| Calculation | (1976 - 1900) / 1900 = 4.00% |

---

***Footnote 4***. In this example, the Index Change on the withdrawal date is not limited by the Maximum Gain because the Index did not go up more than 12% for the Growth Strategy or 14% for the Buffer Strategy.

***Footnote 5.*** A Vesting Factor limits the portion of a positive Index Change that is taken into account to determine the Vested Gain. The Vesting Factor for a positive Index Change varies depending on the day of the Term. The Vesting Factor for a positive Index Change on any date within the first six months of a Term is 25%. The Vesting Factor for a positive Index Change on any date within the final six months of a Term (but before the Final Market Day of the Term) is 50%. The Vesting Factor for a positive Index Change on the final Market Day of the Term (or any date after that when the Vested Gain for the Term is calculated) is 100%. In this example, the Vesting Factor is 25% because the withdrawal date is a date within the first six months of the Term.

***Footnote 6.*** When there is a positive Index Change, we use the following formulas to calculate the Vested Gain.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Index Change limited by Maximum Gain x Vesting Factor = Vested Gain percentage |
| Calculation | 4.00% x 25% = 1.00% |
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base for the current Term x Vested Gain percentage = Vested Gain in dollars |
| Calculation | $50,000 x 0.0100 = $500 |

---

***Footnote 7.*** In this example, there is a Vested Gain on the withdrawal date and you have not taken any withdrawals before that date. This means the Strategy value on the withdrawal date is the Investment Base plus the Vested Gain as of that date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Investment Base + Vested Gain = Strategy value |
| Calculation | $50,000 + $500 = $50,500 |

---

***Footnote 8.*** The Free Withdrawal Allowance (FWA) for the first Contract Year is 10% of the Purchase Payment. The FWA for each subsequent Contract Year is 10% of the Account Value as of the most recent Contract Anniversary.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Purchase Payment x 10% = FWA for first Contract Year |
| Calculation | $50,000 x 0.10 = $5,000 |

---

***Footnote 9.*** The Early Withdrawal Charge that would apply to your withdrawal is equal to the amount subject to the charge multiplied by the Early Withdrawal Charge rate (EWC rate). The amount subject to the charge includes the charge itself. The amount subject to the charge does not include the FWA. The EWC rate depends on the Contract Year. In this example, the withdrawal occurs in the first Contract Year, when the EWC rate is 8%. The Early Withdrawal Charge rate declines after each of the first five Contract Years. There is no Early Withdrawal Charge after Contract Year 5.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | [(Requested withdrawal—FWA) x EWC rate] / (1.00 - EWC rate) = Early Withdrawal Charge |
| Calculation | [($10,000 - $5,000) x 0.08] / (1.00 - 0.08) = $5,000 x 0.08 / 0.92 = $400 / 0.92 = $435 |

---

***Footnote 10.*** When you request a withdrawal, you receive the amount you requested. If an Early Withdrawal Charge applies, we also withdraw an amount equal to the charge. This means that the total amount withdrawn from your annuity is equal to the amount you requested plus the applicable Early Withdrawal Charge.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Requested withdrawal + Early Withdrawal Charge = total amount withdrawn |
| Calculation | $10,000 + $435 = $10,435 |

---

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
***Footnote 11.*** When you take a withdrawal, the portion of the Investment Base taken to pay for the withdrawal is proportional to the reduction in the value of the Indexed Strategy due to the withdrawal. If there is a Vested Gain as of the withdrawal date, the reduction in the Investment Base will be less than the total amount withdrawn. This difference occurs because your withdrawal is credited with a proportionate share of the Vested Gain.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Totalamount withdrawn / Strategy value before withdrawal = percentage reduction in Strategy value |
| Calculation | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $10,435 / $50,500 = 20.66% |
| Formula | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Investment Base before withdrawal x percentage reduction in Strategy value = proportional reduction in Investment Base |
| Calculation | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $50,000 x 0.2066 = $10,330 |

---

***Footnote 12.*** On the withdrawal date after the withdrawal, the remaining Investment Base is equal to the Investment Base before the withdrawal minus the proportional reduction in the Investment Base for the withdrawal.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Investment Base before withdrawal - proportional reduction in Investment Base for withdrawal = Investment Base after withdrawal |
| Calculation | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $50,000 - $10,330 = $39,670 |

---

***Footnote 13*.** On the withdrawal date, the Strategy value after the withdrawal is equal to Strategy value before the withdrawal minus the total amount withdrawn.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Strategy value before withdrawal - total amount withdrawn = Strategy value after withdrawal |
| Calculation | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $50,500 - $10,435 = $40,065 |

---

***Footnote 14.*** The Index Change on the Term End Date is equal to the percentage change in the Index Value measured from the Term Start Date to the Term End Date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (Index Value on Term End Date - Index Value on Term Start Date) / Index Value on Term Start Date |
| Calculation | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; (2033 - 1900) / 1900 = 7.00% |

---

***Footnote 15***. In this example, the Index Change on the Term End Date is not limited by the Maximum Gain because the Index did not go up more than 12% for the Growth Strategy or 14% for the Buffer Strategy.

***Footnote 16***. The Vesting Factor for a positive Index Change on the Term End Date is 100%.

***Footnote 17***. When there is a positive Index Change, we use the following formulas to calculate the Vested Gain.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Index Change limited by Maximum Gain x Vesting Factor = Vested Gain percentage |
| Calculation | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 7.00% x 100% = 7.00% |

---

***Footnote 18.*** In this example, there is a Vested Gain on the Term End Date and you have taken a $10,000 withdrawal during the Term. This means the Strategy value on that date is the remaining Investment Base on the Term End Date plus the Vested Gain as of that date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Remaining Investment Base on Term End Date + Vested Gain = Strategy value on Term End Date |
| Calculation | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; $39,670 + $2,777 = $42,447 |

---

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Example H: Amount Available for a Withdrawal When Index Falls** 

This example assumes:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you allocate a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 Growth/-10% Floor Strategy and a $50,000 Purchase Payment to the S&P 500 10% Buffer Strategy;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Contract Effective Date and the Term Start Date are both April 6, 2024;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you request a $10,000 withdrawal on Day 146 of the Term (August 30, 2024);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you do not take any other withdrawals during the initial Term; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Term End Date is April 6, 2025.

---

| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| **Term Start Date—April 6, 2024** | S&P 500 Growth<br>Strategy | S&P 500 Buffer Strategy |  |
|  Strategy Value | $50000 | $50000 | See Footnote 1 below. |
|  Investment Base | $50000 | $50000 | See Footnote 1 below. |
|  Maximum Loss for Term | Loss of 10% | N/A | See Footnote 2 below. |
|  End of Term Buffer | N/A | 10% Buffer | See Footnote 3 below. |
|  Index Value | 1900 | 1900 |  |
|  **Withdrawal Date—August 30, 2024** |  |  |  |
|  Index Value | 1786 | 1786 |  |
|  Negative Index Change | -6.00% | -6.00% | See Footnote 4 below. |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -6.00% | N/A | See Footnote 5 below. |
|  Buffer on Day 146 | N/A | 4.00% Buffer | See Footnote 6 below. |
|  Vested Loss as a Percentage | -6.00% | -2.00% | See Footnote 7 below. |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | -$3000 | -$1000 | See Footnote 7 below. |
|  Strategy Value before Withdrawal | $47000 | $49000 | See Footnote 8 below. |
|  Amount of Withdrawal Requested | $10000 | $10000 |  |
|  Free Withdrawal Allowance | $5000 | $5000 | See Footnote 9 below. |
|  Early Withdrawal Charge | $435 | $435 | See Footnote 10 below. |
|  Total Amount Withdrawn | $10435 | $10435 | See Footnote 11 below. |
|  Percentage Reduction in Strategy Value | 22.20% | 21.30% | See Footnote 12 below. |
|  Proportional Reduction in Investment Base | $11100 | $10650 | See Footnote 12 below. |
|  Remaining Investment Base after Withdrawal | $38900 | $39350 | See Footnote 13 below. |
|  Strategy Value after Withdrawal | $36565 | $38565 | See Footnote 14 below. |
|  **Term End Date—April 6, 2025** |  |  |  |
|  Index Value | 1748 | 1748 |  |
|  Negative Index Change | -8.00% | -8.00% | See Footnote 15 below. |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Maximum Loss | -8.00% | N/A | See Footnote 16 below. |
|  Negative Index Change Limited by Buffer | N/A | 0.00% | See Footnote 17 below. |
|  Vested Loss Percentage | -8.00% | 0.00% | See Footnote 18 below. |
|  Remaining Investment Base | $38900 | $39350 | See Footnote 13 below. |
|  Vested Loss in Dollars | -$3112 | $0 | See Footnote 18 below. |
|  Strategy Value at Term End | $35788 | $39350 | See Footnote 19 below. |

---

***Footnote 1.*** On the Term Start Date, the Strategy value is equal to the amount applied to the Strategy on the Term Start Date. The amount applied on the Term Start Date is also the beginning Investment Base.

***Footnote 2.*** The Maximum Loss is the largest negative Index Change for a Term taken into account to determine the Vested Loss for Growth Strategies. In this example, the Maximum Loss is 10%, which means it will not affect the calculation of Vested Loss unless the Index goes down more than 10%.

***Footnote 3.*** The Buffer is the portion of a negative Index Change for a Term that is disregarded when determining a Vested Loss for a Buffer Strategy. The Buffer varies depending on the day of the Term. Once the final Market Day of the Term has been reached, the Buffer is 10%. Before the final Market Day, the Buffer is:

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| 10% | x | <u>365 – N</u> |
|  |  | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;365 |

---

where N is equal to the number of days remaining until the final Market Day of the Term.

***Footnote 4****.* The Index Change is equal to the percentage change in the Index Value measured from the Term Start Date to the withdrawal date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | (Index Value on withdrawal date - Index Value on Term Start Date) / Index Value on Term Start Date |
| Calculation | (1786 - 1900) / 1900 = -6.00% |

---

***Footnote 5***. In this example, the negative Index Change on the withdrawal date is not limited by the Maximum Loss because the Index did not go down more than 10%.

***Footnote 6***. In this example, only a portion of the negative Index Change on the withdrawal date is limited by the Buffer because the Index went down more than 4.00%.

***Footnote 7.***

*Vested Loss – Growth Strategies:* When there is a negative Index Change, we use the following formulas to calculate the Vested Loss for Growth Strategies.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Index Change limited by Maximum Loss = Vested Loss percentage |
| Calculation | -6.00% = -6.00% |
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base for the current Term x Vested Loss percentage = Vested Loss in dollars |
| Calculation | $50,000 x -0.0600 = -$3,000 |

---

*Vested Loss – Buffer Strategies:* When there is a negative Index Change, we use the following formulas to calculate the Vested Loss for Buffer Strategies.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Index Change limited by Buffer = Vested Loss percentage |
| Calculation | -6.00% Index Change - (-4.00%) Buffer = -2.00% |
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base for the current Term x Vested Loss percentage = Vested Loss in dollars |
| Calculation | $50,000 x -0.0200 = -$1,000 |

---

***Footnote 8.*** In this example, there is a Vested Loss on the withdrawal date and you have not taken any withdrawals before that date. This means the Strategy value on the withdrawal date is the Investment Base, minus the Vested Loss as of that date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Investment Base - Vested Loss = Strategy value |
| Calculation | For Growth Strategy: $50,000 - $3,000 = $47,000 |
|  | For Buffer Strategy: $50,000 - $1,000 = $49,000 |

---

***Footnote 9.*** The Free Withdrawal Allowance (FWA) for the first Contract Year is 10% of the Purchase Payment. The FWA for each subsequent Contract Year is 10% of the Account Value as of the most recent Contract Anniversary.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Purchase Payment x 10% = FWA for first Contract Year |
| Calculation | $50,000 x 10% = $5,000 |

---

***Footnote 10.*** The Early Withdrawal Charge that would apply to your withdrawal is equal to the amount subject to the charge multiplied by the Early Withdrawal Charge rate (EWC rate). The amount subject to the charge includes the charge itself. The amount subject to the charge does not include the FWA. The EWC rate depends on the Contract Year. In this example, the withdrawal occurs in the first Contract Year, when the EWC rate is 8%. The Early Withdrawal Charge rate declines after each of the first five Contract Years. There is no Early Withdrawal Charge after Contract Year 5.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | [(Requested withdrawal - FWA) x EWC rate] / (1.00 - EWC rate) = Early Withdrawal Charge |
| Calculation | [($10,000 - $5,000) x 0.08] / (1.00 - 0.08) = $5,000 x 0.08 / 0.92 = $400 / 0.92 = $435 |

---

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
***Footnote 11.*** When you request a withdrawal, you receive the amount you requested. If an Early Withdrawal Charge applies, we also withdraw an amount equal to the charge. This means that the total amount withdrawn from your annuity is equal to the amount you requested plus the applicable Early Withdrawal Charge.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Requested withdrawal + Early Withdrawal Charge = total amount withdrawn |
| Calculation | $10,000 + $435 = $10,435 |

---

***Footnote 12.*** When you take a withdrawal, the portion of the Investment Base taken to pay for the withdrawal is proportional to the reduction in the value of the Indexed Strategy due to the withdrawal. If there is a Vested Loss as of the withdrawal date, the reduction in the Investment Base will be more than the total amount withdrawn. This difference occurs because your withdrawal is charged with a proportionate share of the Vested Loss.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | total amount withdrawn / Strategy value before withdrawal = percentage reduction in Strategy value |
| Calculation | For Growth Strategy: $10,435 / $47,000 = 22.20% |
|  | For Buffer Strategy: $10,435 / $49,000 = 21.30% |
| Formula | Investment Base before withdrawal x percentage reduction in Strategy value = proportional reduction in Investment Base |
| Calculation | For Growth Strategy: $50,000 x 0.2220 = $11,100 |
|  | For Buffer Strategy: $50,000 x 0.2130 = $10,650 |

---

***Footnote 13.*** On the withdrawal date, the remaining Investment Based after the withdrawal is equal to the Investment Base before the withdrawal minus the proportional reduction in the Investment Base for the withdrawal.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Investment Base before withdrawal - proportional reduction in Investment Base for withdrawal = Investment Base after withdrawal |
| Calculation | For Growth Strategy: $50,000 - $11,100 = $38,900 |
|  | For Buffer Strategy: $50,000 - $10,650 = $39,350 |

---

***Footnote 14*.** On the withdrawal date, the Strategy value after the withdrawal is equal to the Strategy value before the withdrawal minus the total amount withdrawn.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Strategy value before withdrawal - total amount withdrawn = Strategy value after withdrawal |
| Calculation | For Growth Strategy: $47,000 - $10,435 = $36,565 |
|  | For Buffer Strategy: $49,000 - $10,435 = $38,565 |

---

***Footnote 15.*** The Index Change on the Term End Date is equal to the percentage change in the Index Value measured from the Term Start Date to the Term End Date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | (Index Value on Term End Date - Index Value on Term Start Date) / Index Value on Term Start Date |
| Calculation | (1748 - 1900) / 1900 = -8.00% |

---

***Footnote 16***. For the Growth Strategy, in this example, the negative Index Change on the Term End Date is not limited by the Maximum Loss because the Index did not go down more than 10%.

***Footnote 17***. For the Buffer Strategy, in this example, the entire negative Index Change on the Term End Date is limited by the Buffer because the Index went down less than 10%.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
***Footnote 18****.* 

*Vested Loss – Growth Strategies:* When there is a negative Index Change, we use the following formula to calculate the Vested Loss percentage for Growth Strategies.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Index Change limited by Maximum Loss = Vested Loss percentage |
| Calculation | -8.00% = -8.00% |
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base for the current Term x Vested Loss percentage = Vested Loss in dollars |
| Calculation | $38,899 x -0.0800 = -$3,112 |

---

*Vested Loss – Buffer Strategies:* When there is a negative Index Change, we use the following formula to calculate the Vested Loss percentage for Buffer Strategies.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Index Change limited by Buffer = Vested Loss percentage |
| Calculation | -8% Index Change > -10% Buffer = 0% |
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base for the current Term x Vested Loss percentage = Vested Loss in dollars |
| Calculation | $39,352 x 0.0000 = $0 |

---

***Footnote 19.*** In this example, there is a Vested Loss on the Term End Date for the Growth Strategy and you have taken a $10,000 withdrawal during the Term. This means the Strategy value on that date is the remaining Investment Base on the Term End Date minus the Vested Loss as of that date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base on Term End Date—Vested Loss = Strategy value |
| Calculation | $38,900 - $3,112 = $35,788 |

---

In this example, there is no Vested Loss on the Term End Date for the Buffer Strategy and you have taken a $10,000 withdrawal during the Term. This means the Strategy value on that date is the remaining Investment Base on the Term End Date.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Formula | Remaining Investment Base on Term End Date = Strategy value |
| Calculation | $39,350 = $39,350 |

---

**Early Withdrawal Charge** 

We impose an Early Withdrawal Charge to reimburse us for contract sales expenses, including commissions and other distribution, promotion, and acquisition expenses, and to allow us to support higher Declared Rate Strategy interest rates and Indexed Strategy Maximum Gains by investing assets for a longer duration.

The Early Withdrawal Charge applies if, during the first five Contract Years, you take a withdrawal from your Contract or Surrender it. After that, the Early Withdrawal Charge does not apply.

The Early Withdrawal Charge is equal to the amount that is subject to the charge multiplied by the Early Withdrawal Charge rate.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If you take a withdrawal from your Contract, the amount subject to the charge is the amount you withdraw plus any
amount needed to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If you Surrender your Contract, the amount subject to the charge is your Account Value.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The amount subject to the charge will not include: (1) the Free Withdrawal Allowance; (2) the amount,
if any, that qualifies under the Bailout right; or (3) the amount, if any, that qualifies for another waiver as described below.

The Early Withdrawal Charge rate depends on how long you own your Contract. The rate schedule is set out below.

---

| | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
| Contract Year | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6+ |
|  Early Withdrawal Charge Rate | 8% | 7% | 6% | 5% | 4% | 0% |

---

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
*Example.* You Surrender your annuity in Contract Year 5 when your Account Value is $100,000. You have already used your Free Withdrawal Allowance for the year and no other exception applies. We take an Early Withdrawal Charge of $4,000 ($100,000 x 0.04) and you receive $96,000.

*Example.* You take a $10,000 withdrawal from your annuity in Contract Year 5 when your Account Value is $100,000. You have already used your Free Withdrawal Allowance for the year and no other exception applies. We take an Early Withdrawal Charge of $400 ($10,000 x 0.04) and you receive $9,600.

An Early Withdrawal Charge may apply if you take a withdrawal during the first five Contract Years. That charge will reduce Strategy values, including the value of a Conserve/0% Floor Strategy.

**Free Withdrawal Allowance** 

The Free Withdrawal Allowance lets you withdraw some money from your Contract without the imposition of the Early Withdrawal Charge. For the first Contract Year, the Free Withdrawal Allowance is an amount equal to 10% of the total Purchase Payments received by us. For each subsequent Contract Year, the Free Withdrawal Allowance is equal to 10% of the Account Value as of the most recent Contract Anniversary. The Free Withdrawal Allowance is non-cumulative and you may not carry over any unused portion to other Contract Years.

For qualified annuities, the Free Withdrawal Allowance will be large enough to cover your required minimum distribution to age 93. However, if you have used your Free Withdrawal Allowance to facilitate a transfer or rollover, then an Early Withdrawal Charge may apply to a required minimum distribution.

*Example.* Your Account Value as of the end of Contract Year 3 is $200,000. Your Free Withdrawal Allowance for Contract Year 4 is $20,000 ($200,000 x 0.10). If you take a withdrawal of $50,000 at the beginning of Contract Year 4, the Early Withdrawal Charge will not apply to the first $20,000 of the withdrawal, but will apply to the remaining $30,000 plus the amount needed to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge. If you take another withdrawal later in Contract Year 4, the Early Withdrawal Charge applies to the entire withdrawal plus the amount needed to pay the Early Withdrawal Charge.

**Early Withdrawal Charge Waivers** 

***Bailout Right*.** We will waive the Early Withdrawal Charge on amounts that you withdraw from this Contract at the end of a current Term if the amounts are held under an Indexed Strategy for that Term and either:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Maximum Gain for the next Term of that Strategy is less than its Bailout Trigger for the current Term; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• that Strategy will not be available for the next Term.

Each current Term of an Indexed Strategy has its own Bailout Trigger, even if no funds are held under the Indexed Strategy for that Term. If your Contract has multiple Purchase Payments, the Bailout Trigger for one current Term of an Indexed Strategy may be different from the Bailout Trigger for another current Term of the same Indexed Strategy that started on a different date.

The initial Bailout Trigger for each Indexed Strategy is set out on the Contract Specifications page. It is less than the Maximum Gain that we anticipate setting for the initial Term of that Indexed Strategy.

For each subsequent Term, the Bailout Trigger is the lesser of:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Bailout Trigger for the Term that ended on the date the current Term began; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Maximum Gain set for the current Term.

This means that:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• if the Maximum Gain is never set below the Bailout Trigger, then the Bailout Trigger will not change; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• if the Maximum Gain is ever set below the Bailout Trigger, then the Bailout Trigger will be reduced for the new
Term and for each Term that starts on an anniversary of that Term start date.

The Bailout Trigger will never increase from one Term to the next.

------

##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
*Example.* The Bailout Trigger for the initial Term of an Indexed Strategy is 6.5%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we set the Maximum Gain for the next Term of that Indexed Strategy at 7.5%, then you will not qualify for a
waiver of the Early Withdrawal Charge at the end of the current Term and the Bailout Trigger for that next Term will continue to be 6.5%.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we set the Maximum Gain for the next Term of that Indexed Strategy at 5.5%, then you will qualify for a waiver
of the Early Withdrawal Charge at the end of the current Term and the Bailout Trigger for that next Term will change to 5.5%.

If this waiver will apply to an Indexed Strategy at the end of a Term, we will notify you in writing at least 30 days before that Term ends. You may elect a withdrawal under the Bailout right by a Request in Good Order. We must receive your request before the end of the applicable Term.

This waiver will only apply to the amount held under the Indexed Strategy for the Term that is ending. It will not apply to amounts then held under a different Strategy, or to amounts held under the same Strategy for a Term ending on a different date. You may not carry over any unused part of the waiver from one Term to the next.

**If you withdraw funds that qualify for a waiver under the Bailout right, the withdrawal will reduce the Free Withdrawal Allowance for the applicable Contract Year.** For example, if the amount you withdraw that qualifies for a waiver under the Bailout right in Contract Year 4 is more than 10% of your Account Value as of the most recent Contract Anniversary, then no Free Withdrawal Allowance will be available for subsequent withdrawals in Contract Year 4.

Instead of withdrawing amounts that qualify for a waiver under the Bailout right, you may wish to reallocate those amounts to a different Strategy. A Request in Good Order to reallocate funds must be received by us before the end of the applicable Term.

***Extended Care Waiver*.** (Rider form R1462316NW-Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges for Extended Care Rider). We will waive the Early Withdrawal Charge that would otherwise apply if you make a Request in Good Order and:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• your Contract is modified by the Extended Care Waiver Rider;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you are confined in a long-term care facility or hospital and the confinement is prescribed by a physician and is
medically necessary;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the first day of the confinement is at least one year after the Contract Effective Date; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the confinement has continued for a period of at least 90 consecutive days.

You must provide us with satisfactory proof that you meet these conditions before the date of the withdrawal or Surrender. There is no charge for this rider, but it may not be available in all states. In California, the Extended Care Waiver Rider has been replaced with the Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges for Facility Care or Home Care or Community-Based Services Rider, which provides for a waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges under an expanded variety of circumstances. Please see the rider for details.

***Terminal Illness Waiver*.** (Rider form R1462416NW-Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges Upon Terminal Illness Rider). We will waive the Early Withdrawal Charge that would otherwise apply if you make a Request in Good Order and:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• your Contract is modified by the Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges upon Terminal Illness Rider;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you are diagnosed with a terminal illness by a physician and, as a result of the terminal illness, you have a
life expectancy of less than 12 months from the date of diagnosis; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the diagnosis is rendered by a physician more than one year after the Contract Effective Date.

You must provide us with satisfactory proof that you meet these conditions before the date of the withdrawal or Surrender. There is no charge for this rider, but it may not be available in all states. Please see the rider for details.

**Required Minimum Distributions.** No special waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges exists for required minimum distributions except as may be offered from time to time under an automated payment program.

**State Limitations.** In some states, our ability to waive fees or charges may be limited by applicable laws, regulations or administrative positions. Please see the "State Variations" section below for information on additional state variations.

**Annuity Payout Benefit** 

Under the Contract you may receive regular Annuity Payout Benefit payments for the duration of the period that you select. Once Annuity Payout Benefit payments start, you can no longer surrender the Contract or take a withdrawal, no Death Benefit will be payable under your Contract, and your Beneficiary designations will no longer apply. The amount payable after death, if any, is governed by the Payout Option you select.

The Annuity Payout Benefit is payable if the Annuity Payout Initiation Date is reached before the earlier of: (1) a death for which a Death Benefit is payable; or (2) the date that this Contract is Surrendered.

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**Annuity Payout Initiation Date** 

The Annuity Payout Initiation Date is the first day of the first payment interval for which payment of the Annuity Payout Benefit is to be made. Annuity Payout Benefit payments are made at the end of each payment interval. This means that for annual payments, the first payment will be made one year after the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.

You may select the Annuity Payout Initiation Date by a Request in Good Order. We must receive your request before the last Market Close on or before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date you selected and at least 30 days before the first Annuity Payout Benefit payment is to be made.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The earliest Annuity Payout Initiation you may select is the first Contract Anniversary.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Unless we agree, the latest Annuity Payout Initiation Date you may select is the Contract Anniversary following
your 95th birthday or the 95th birthday, of a joint owner, if earlier. If the Owner is not a human being such as a trust or a corporation, then the Annuity Payout Initiation Date may not be later than the Contract Anniversary following the 95th
birthday of the eldest Annuitant, unless we agree.

The earliest permitted date and the latest permitted date for the Annuity Payout Initiation Date are set out on your Contract Specifications Page. The latest permitted date may change if an Owner changes.

If you do not select an Annuity Payout Initiation Date by the latest permitted date, we may select it for you. We will notify you in writing at least 45 days before the date we select. We will give you an opportunity to select an earlier date.

**Annuity Payout Amount** 

The amount of each payment under the Annuity Payout Benefit is determined on the Annuity Payout Initiation Date based on the Annuity Payout Value on that date, the Payout Option that applies, and the payment interval.

The Annuity Payout Value is the amount that can be applied to the Annuity Payout Benefit is equal to: (1) the Account Value on the Annuity Payout Initiation Date; minus (2) premium tax or other taxes not previously deducted.

**Form of Annuity Payout Benefit** 

The Annuity Payout Benefit is paid in the form of annual payments as a Life Payout with Payments for at Least a Fixed Period. That fixed period will be 10 years or, if fewer, the maximum number of whole years permitted by any tax qualification endorsement.

In place of that, you may elect to have the Annuity Payout Benefit paid in any form of Payout Option that is available under your Contract. The available Payout Options are described in the Payout Options section below. You may elect a Payout Option by a Request in Good Order. We must receive your request before the last Market Close on or before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date and at least 30 days before the first Annuity Payout Benefit payment is to be made.

**Payee for Annuity Payout Benefit** 

Payment of the Annuity Payout Benefit generally is made to the surviving Owner(s) as the payee(s). In place of that, the surviving Owner(s) may elect for payment to be made as a tax-free exchange, transfer, or rollover, or for payment to be made to the Annuitant. That election must be made by a Request in Good Order that we receive at least 30 days before the payment date.

Payments that become due after the death of the payee are made to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the surviving Owner(s); or if none

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• then to the surviving contingent payee(s) designated by the surviving Owner(s); or if none;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the estate of the last payee who received payments.

The portion of any Annuity Payout Benefit remaining after the death of an Owner or Annuitant must be paid at least as rapidly as payments were being made at the time of such death.

You may designate a contingent payee by a Request in Good Order. If you designate your spouse as a contingent payee and your marriage ends before your death, then we will treat your former spouse as having predeceased you except in the following situations: (1) if a court order provides that the former spouse's rights as a contingent payee are to continue; or (2) if the former spouse remains or becomes an Owner.

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**Death Benefit** 

A Death Benefit is payable under your Contract if you die before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date and before the Contract is Surrendered. If your spouse becomes a successor owner of the Contract, no Death Benefit will be payable on account of your death.

When the Owner is a non-natural person, a Death Benefit is payable under the Contract if the Annuitant dies before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date and before the Contract is Surrendered. For this purpose, a non-natural person is a trust, custodial account, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or other entity.

Only one Death Benefit will be paid under the Contract. If a Death Benefit becomes payable, it will be in place of all other benefits under the Contract, and all other rights under this Contract will terminate except for rights related to the Death Benefit.

**Death Benefit Payout Date** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Death Benefit is to be paid as a lump sum, then it will be paid as soon as practicable after the receipt
of proof of death and a Request in Good Order for a lump sum payment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Death Benefit is to be paid under a Payout Option, then we will apply the Death Benefit Value to a Payout
Option as soon as practicable after receipt of proof of death and a Request in Good Order. That application date will be the first day of the first payment interval for which a payment is to be made. Death Benefit payments under a Payout Option are
made at the end of each payment interval. This means that, for annual payments, the first payment will be made one year after that application date.

**Death Benefit Amount** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Death Benefit is paid in a lump sum, then it is equal to the Death Benefit Value, increased by any
additional post- death interest as required by law.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Death Benefit will be paid as a series of periodic payments under a Payout Option, then the amount of each
payment under the Death Benefit is determined on the date that the Death Benefit Value is applied to the Payout Option. The amount or each payment will be based on the Death Benefit Value (increased by any additional post-death interest as required
by law to the date it is applied to the Payout Option), the Payout Option that applies, and the payment interval.

*Death Benefit Value* 

The Death Benefit Value is the greater of:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Account Value determined as of the date that the Death Benefit Value is determined; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Purchase Payments, reduced proportionally for all withdrawals, but not including amounts applied to pay Early
Withdrawal Charges (the "Purchase Payment base").

In either case, the Death Benefit Value is reduced by premium tax or other taxes not previously deducted.

The reduction in your Purchase Payment base for withdrawals will be in the same proportion that your Account Value was reduced on the date of the withdrawal. A proportional reduction in your Purchase Payment base could be larger than the dollar amount of your withdrawal.

*Example.* Here is an example of how we calculate a proportional reduction of your Purchase Payment base. In this example, we assume you take an $8,000 withdrawal. To simplify the example, we also assume no Early Withdrawal Charge, no premium tax is deducted, and no additional post-death interest is added.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Before** Withdrawal | **After** Withdrawal | Explanation |
|  Account Value | $100000 | $92000 | Your withdrawal reduces your Account Value by $8,000 (which is an 8% reduction in your Account Value). $8,000 / $100,000 = 8% |
|  Purchase Payment Base for Death Benefit | $120000 | $110400 | After the withdrawal, the Purchase Payment base for the Death Benefit is also reduced by 8% or $9,600. $120,000 x 0.08 = $9,600 |

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*Determination Date* 

The date that the Death Benefit Value is determined is the earlier of: (1) the first anniversary of the date of death; or (2) the date that we have received both proof of death and Requests in Good Order with instructions as to the form of Death Benefit from all Beneficiaries. Thus, in many cases where there are multiple Beneficiaries, the date that the Death Benefit Value is determined will be the date when the last Beneficiary submits the necessary Request in Good Order or the first anniversary of death. Until then, the Contract values remain in the Crediting Strategies and the Indexed Strategy values may fluctuate. This risk is borne by the Beneficiaries.

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*Proof of Death* 

Before making payment of a Death Benefit, or any other payment or transfer of ownership rights that depends on the death of a specified person, we will require proof of death. We may delay making any payment until it is received. For this purpose, proof of death is:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a certified copy of a death certificate showing the cause and manner of death;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a certified copy of a decree that is made by a court of competent jurisdiction as to the finding of death; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• other proof that is satisfactory to us.

**Form of Death Benefit** 

The Death Benefit is paid in the form of annual payments for a fixed period of two years.

In place of that, you may elect to have the Death Benefit paid in one lump sum or in any form of Payout Option that is available under your Contract. The available Payout Options are described in the Payout Options section below. There is no additional charge associated with this election.

You may make an election by a Request in Good Order. We must receive your request on or before the date of death for which a Death Benefit is payable. If you do not make such an election, the Beneficiary may make that election after the date of death. The Beneficiary's election must be made by a Request in Good Order that is received by us no later than the date that the Death Benefit Value is applied to a Payout Option and at least 30 days before the date of the first payment to be made.

*Additional Rules* 

Any election is subject to the Death Benefit Distribution Rules described below.

A Payout Option that is contingent on life is based on the life of the Beneficiary or, in some cases, the life of a person to whom the Beneficiary is obligated.

We will pay the Death Benefit as a lump sum rather than as payments under a Payout Option if: (1) the Death Benefit is less than $2,000; or (2) as of the date that the Death Benefit Value is to be applied to a Payout Option, the Death Benefit Distribution Rules do not allow a two-year payout.

**Payee of Death Benefit Payments** 

Death Benefit payments generally are made to the Beneficiary as the payee.

In place of that, the Beneficiary may elect to have payments made:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• as a tax-free exchange, transfer, or rollover to or for an annuity or tax-qualified account as permitted by federal tax law; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• in cases where the Beneficiary is an estate, trust, custodial account, corporation, limited liability company,
partnership, or other entity, to a person to whom the Beneficiary is obligated to make corresponding payments.

Payments that become due after the death of the Beneficiary are made to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the contingent payee designated as part of a Death Benefit Payout Option elected by you; or if none

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• then to a contingent payee designated by the Beneficiary; or if none

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the estate of the last payee who received payments.

Such payments are subject to the Death Benefit Distribution Rules described below.

You may designate a contingent payee by a Request in Good Order. A Beneficiary may make or change a payee or contingent payee, except a Beneficiary may not change a designation made as part of a Payout Option election made by you for the Death Benefit. If the Beneficiary designates his or her spouse as a contingent payee and their marriage ends before the Beneficiary's death, then we will treat the former spouse as having predeceased the Beneficiary except to the extent a court order provides that the former spouse's rights as a contingent payee are to continue.

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**Death Benefit Distribution Rules** 

The Death Benefit Distribution Rules are summarized below.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For a Tax Qualified Contract. The Death Benefit must be paid in accordance with the tax qualification
endorsement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For a Nonqualified Contract. The Death Benefit must be paid either: (1) in full within five years of the
date of death; or (2) over the life of the Beneficiary or over a period certain not exceeding the Beneficiary's life expectancy, with payments at least annually, and with the first payment made within one year of the date of death.

**Payout Options** 

The standard Payout Options are described below.

Payments under each standard Payout Option are made at the end of a payment interval. For example, if the Annuity Payout Initiation Date is October 31, 2029 and you select annual payments, then the first payment will be paid as of October 31, 2030.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| **Option** | **Description for Annuity Payout Benefit** | **Description for Death Benefit** |
|  Fixed Period Payout | We will make periodic payments to you, or to the Annuitant, if you direct, for the fixed period of time that you select.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the payee dies **before** the end of the fixed period, then we will make periodic payments to the surviving owner(s), or if none, then to the surviving contingent payee(s), or if none, then to the estate of the last payee who received payments.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• In all cases, payments will stop at the end of the fixed period.<br>For a nonqualified contract, fixed periods shorter than 10 years are not available. For a tax-qualified contract, the only fixed period available is 10 years. | We will make periodic payments to the Beneficiary for the fixed period of time that you or the Beneficiary selects.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Beneficiary dies **before** the end of the fixed period, then we will make periodic payments to the contingent payee designated as part of any Death Benefit Payout Option that you have elected. If no such contingent payee is surviving, then such payments will be made to a contingent payee designated by the Beneficiary. If there is no contingent payee surviving, then such payments will be made to the estate of the last payee who received payments.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• In all cases, payments will stop at the end of the fixed period.<br>The fixed period cannot exceed the life expectancy of the Beneficiary. For a tax-qualified contract, the fixed period also cannot exceed 10 years. |

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|:---|:---|:---|
| **Option** | **Description for Annuity Payout Benefit** | **Description for Death Benefit** |
| Life Payout | We will make periodic payments to you, or to the Annuitant, if you direct, for as long as the Annuitant lives.<br>Payments will stop on the death of the Annuitant. This means that, even if we have made only one payment when the Annuitant dies, payments will stop.<br>If the Annuitant dies after the Annuity Payout Initiation Date but before the first payment, a Life Payout will not provide any benefit at all. In that case, we will reverse the Annuity Benefit Payout election and treat the Contract as if the Annuity Payout Initiation Date had not yet been reached.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Owner is living, this treatment will generally allow the Owner to choose between continuing the Contract as a deferred annuity or electing a new Annuity Payout Initiation Date and another Payout Option.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Annuitant's death before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date would give rise to a Death Benefit, then the Death Benefit will be available. | We will make periodic payments to the Beneficiary for as long as the Beneficiary lives.<br>Payments will stop on the death of the Beneficiary. This means that, even if we have made only one payment when the Beneficiary dies, payments will stop.<br>If the Beneficiary dies after the Death Benefit is applied to the Payout Option but before the first payment, a Life Payout will not provide any benefit at all. In that case, we will reverse the Payout Option election and allow the Beneficiary's estate to choose a new Payout Option or to take the Death Benefit as a lump sum.<br>For a tax-qualified contract, a Life Payout is not available to all Beneficiaries. |
| Life Payout with Payments for at Least a Fixed Period | We will make periodic payments to you, or to the Annuitant, if you direct, for as long as the Annuitant lives.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Annuitant dies **after** the end of the fixed period you selected, then payments will stop on the death of the Annuitant.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Annuitant dies **before** the end of the fixed period you selected, then we will make periodic payments to the surviving owner(s), or if none, then to the surviving contingent payee(s), or if none, then to the estate of the last payee who received payments. In this case, payments will stop at the end of the fixed period you selected.<br>For a tax-qualified contract, fixed periods longer than 10 years are not available. | We will make periodic payments to the Beneficiary for as long as the Beneficiary lives.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Beneficiary dies **after** the end of the fixed period selected, then payments will stop on the death of the Beneficiary.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Beneficiary dies **before** the end of the fixed period you or the Beneficiary selected, then we will make periodic payments to the contingent payee designated as part of any Death Benefit Payout Option that you have elected. If no such contingent payee is surviving, then such payments will be made to a contingent payee designated by the Beneficiary. If there is no contingent payee surviving, then such payments will be made to the estate of the last payee who received payments. In this case, payments will stop at the end of the fixed period you or the Beneficiary selected.<br>The fixed period cannot exceed the life expectancy of the Beneficiary. For a tax-qualified contract, a Life Payout with Payments for at Least a Fixed Period is not available to all Beneficiaries, and the fixed period also cannot exceed 10 years. |

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|:---|:---|:---|
| **Option** | **Description for Annuity Payout Benefit** | **Description for Death Benefit** |
| Joint and One-Half Survivor Payout | We will make periodic payments to you, or to the primary Annuitant, if you direct, for as long as the primary Annuitant lives.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the primary Annuitant dies and the secondary Annuitant does **not** survive the primary Annuitant, then payments will stop on the death of the primary Annuitant.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the primary Annuitant dies and the secondary Annuitant is surviving, then we will make one-half of the periodic payment to you, or the secondary Annuitant, if you direct, for the rest of the secondary Annuitant's life. In this case, payments will stop on the death of the secondary Annuitant.<br>This means that, even if we have made only one payment when the primary Annuitant dies, payments will stop unless the secondary Annuitant survives.<br>If the Annuitant dies after the Annuity Payout Initiation Date but before the first payment, a Joint and One-Half Survivor Payout will never provide the full payment amount. In that case, if the secondary Annuitant agrees, we will reverse the Annuity Benefit Payout election and treat the Contract as if the Annuity Payout Initiation Date had not been reached.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Owner is living, this treatment will generally allow the Owner to choose between continuing the Contract as a deferred annuity or electing a new Annuity Payout Initiation Date and another Payout Option.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Annuitant's death before the Annuity Benefit Payout Initiation Date would give rise to a Death Benefit, then the Death Benefit will be available. | We will make periodic payments to the Beneficiary for as long as the Beneficiary lives.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Beneficiary dies and the contingent payee does **not** survive the Beneficiary, then payments will stop on the death of the Beneficiary.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If the Beneficiary dies and the contingent payee designated as part of the Death Benefit Payout Option election is surviving, then we will make one-half of the periodic payment to the contingent payee for the rest of the contingent payee's life. In this case, payments will stop on the death of the contingent payee.<br>This means that, even if we have made only one payment when the Beneficiary dies, payments will stop unless the contingent payee survives.<br>If the Beneficiary dies after the Death Benefit is applied to the Payout Option but before the first payment, a Joint and One-Half Survivor Payout will never provide the full payment amount. In that case, if the contingent payee agrees, we will reverse the Payout Option election and allow the Beneficiary's estate to choose a new Payout Option or to take the Death Benefit as a lump sum.<br>A Joint and One-Half Survivor Payout is only available to a Beneficiary who is the surviving spouse of the owner. |

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We will make payments in any other form of Payout Option that is acceptable to us at the time of any election. More than one Payout Option may be elected if the requirements for each Payout Option elected are satisfied. All elected Payout Options must comply with pertinent laws and regulations.

Payments under a Payout Option are calculated and paid as fixed dollar payments. The stream of payments is an obligation of the general account of MassMutual Ascend Life. Fixed dollar payments will remain level for the duration of the payment period. Once payments begin under a Payout Option, the Payout Option may not be changed. Once the Contract value is applied to a Payout Option, the periodic payments cannot be accelerated or converted into a lump sum payment unless we agree.

We will use the 2012 Individual Annuity Reserving Table with projection scale G2 for blended lives (60% female/40% male) with interest at 1% per year, compounded annually, to compute all guaranteed Payout Option factors, values, and benefits under the Contract. For purposes of calculating payments based on the age of a person, we will use his or her age as of his or her last birthday.

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**Considerations in Selecting a Payout Option** 

Payments under a Payout Option are affected by various factors, including the length of the payment period, the life expectancy of the person on whose life payments are based, and the frequency of the payment interval (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually).

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Generally, the longer the period over which payments are made or the more frequently the payments are made, the
lower the amount of each payment because more payments will be made.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• For Life Payout Options, the longer the life expectancy of the Annuitant or Beneficiary, the lower the amount of
each payment because more payments are expected to be paid.

**Non-Human Payees under a Payout Option** 

Except as stated below, the primary payee under a Payout Option must be a human being. All payments during his or her life must be made by check payable to the primary payee or by electronic transfer to a bank account owned by the primary payee.

*Exceptions*.** Below are some exceptions to the general rule that the primary payee must be a human being. We may make other exceptions in our discretion.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• A nonhuman that is the Owner of the Contract may be the primary payee. For example, if the Owner is a trust, that
trust may be the primary payee.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Payments may be made payable to another insurance company or financial institution as a tax-free exchange, transfer, or rollover to or for another annuity or tax-qualified account as allowed by federal tax law.

**Processing Applications and Requests** 

**Processing Applications and Initial Purchase Payments** 

We will process an application when we have received both the application and the initial Purchase Payment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If that happens on a Market Day before the Market Close, we will process the application and apply the Purchase
Payment on that Market Day.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If that happens on a Market Day after the Market Close or on a day that is not a Market Day, then we will process
the application and apply the Purchase Payment on the next Market Day.

We cannot process your application if it is not a Request in Good Order or if we have not received your initial Purchase Payment. Likewise, we cannot apply your initial Purchase Payment if we have not received your application.

If you have any questions, you should contact us or your registered representative before submitting your application or sending your initial Purchase Payment.

**Processing Additional Purchase Payments** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we receive an additional Purchase Payment on a Market Day before the Market Close, we will apply it on that
Market Day.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we receive an additional Purchase Payment on a Market Day after the Market Close or on a day that is not a
Market Day, then we will apply it on the next Market Day.

We cannot apply an additional Purchase Payment if we do not have complete instructions from you.

If you have any questions, you should contact us or your registered representative before sending an additional Purchase Payment.

**Processing Requests** 

Requests may be made by mail at P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati OH 45201-5423. Request by fax may be made at 800-807-9777. Requests for reallocations among Strategies may be made by telephone at 1-800-789-6771 between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM Eastern Time Monday through Friday. We may also permit reallocation requests to be made at our website (massmutualascend.com). Some selling firms may restrict the ability of their registered representatives to convey reallocation requests by telephone or Internet on your behalf.

To obtain one of our forms (for example, a Strategy Selection form or a Withdrawal Request form) or to obtain more information about how to make a request, call us at 1-800-789-6771 or send us a fax at 800-807-9777. You can also request forms or information by mail at MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company, P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati OH 45201-5423. You may also obtain forms on our website, <u>www.massmutualascend.com</u>.

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We cannot process a request unless it is a Request in Good Order. A request may be rejected or delayed if it is not a Request in Good Order.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we receive a Request in Good Order on a Market Day before the Market Close, we will process it using values
determined at the Market Close on that Market Day.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If we receive a Request in Good Order after the Market Close or on a day that is not a Market Day, then we will
treat that request as received at the start of the next Market Day.

If you have any questions, you should contact us or your registered representative before submitting the request.

*Exception*. If a withdrawal under an automatic withdrawal program is scheduled for a date that is not a Market Day, then we will process the withdrawal on the scheduled date using values at the most recent Market Close. For example, if the automatic withdrawal is scheduled for a date that falls on Sunday and there was a Market Close at 4:00 PM on the previous Friday, then we will process the withdrawal on Sunday using values determined at 4:00 PM on that Friday

**Market Days and Market Close** 

A Market Day is each day that all markets that are used to measure available Indexed Strategies are open for regular trading.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Saturdays, Sundays, holidays and any other day that the New York Stock Exchange and the NYSE Arca are closed are
not Market Days.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The NYSE and the NYSE Arca observe the following holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day,
President's Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

A Market Close is the close of the regular or core trading session on the market used to measure a given Indexed Strategy.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **NYSE** | **NYSE Arca** |
| Regular trading hours usually end at 4:00 PM Eastern Time | Core trading session usually ends at 4:00 PM Eastern Time |
| Trading hours end at 1:00 PM Eastern Time on the day before the Fourth of July and the Friday after Thanksgiving Christmas Eve. | Core trading session ends at 1:00 PM Eastern Time on the day before the Fourth of July and the Friday after Thanksgiving Christmas Eve. |

---

Regular trading or a core trading session may end at a different time on a Market Day under certain circumstances when and as permitted under applicable rules. Such circumstances generally cannot be predicted in advance.

Specific information about NYSE and NYSE Arca holidays and trading hours in any given calendar year is available at <u>https://</u><u>www.nyse.com/markets/hours-calendars</u>.

**Receipt of Purchase Payments, Applications and Requests** 

For purposes of processing, we deem Purchase Payments and applications, Requests in Good Order and other instructions (paperwork) mailed to our post office box as received by us at our administrative office when the Purchase Payment or the paperwork reaches the applicable processing department located at 191 Rosa Parks Street, Cincinnati OH 45202.

**Risks and Limitations Related to Requests by Telephone or Internet** 

We will use reasonable procedures such as requiring certain identifying information, tape recording the telephone instructions, and providing written confirmation of the transaction, in order to confirm that instructions communicated by telephone, fax, Internet or other means are genuine. Any telephone, fax or Internet instructions reasonably believed by us to be genuine will be your responsibility, including losses arising from any errors in the communication of instructions. As a result of this policy, you will bear the risk of loss. We are not responsible for the validity of any request or action.

Telephone and computer systems may not always be available. Any telephone or computer system, whether it is yours, your service provider's, your agent's, or ours, can experience outages or slowdowns for a variety of reasons. These outages or slowdowns may delay or prevent our processing of your request. Although we have taken precautions to help our systems handle heavy use, we cannot promise complete reliability under all circumstances. If you experience technical difficulties or problems, you should consider making your request by mail.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Suspension of Payments or Transfers** 

We may be required to suspend or delay payments, withdrawals and reallocations when we cannot obtain an Index Value because:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the New York Stock Exchange or NYSE Arca is closed (other than customary weekend and holiday closings);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• trading on the New York Stock Exchange or NYSE Arca is restricted;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• an emergency exists such that it is not reasonably practicable to determine fairly the value of the Index; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• we are permitted to do so under a regulatory order.

**Restrictions on Financial Transactions** 

Federal laws designed to counter terrorism and prevent money laundering might, in certain circumstances, require us to block an Owner's ability to make certain transactions. This means that we may be required to refuse to accept any request for withdrawals, Surrenders, Annuity Payout Benefit payments or Death Benefit payments, until instructions are received from the appropriate regulator. We may also be required to provide additional information about you and your Contract to government regulators.

**Right to Cancel (Free Look)** 

If you change your mind about owning the Contract, you can cancel it within 20 days after you receive it. If you purchased this Contract to replace an existing annuity contract or life insurance policy, you have 30 days after you receive it. This is known as a "free look." The right to cancel period may be longer in some states.

To cancel your Contract, you must submit your request to cancel to the producer who sold it or send it to us at P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5423. If sent to us by mail, it is effective on the date postmarked with proper address and postage paid. Your request to cancel must be in writing and signed by you.

When you cancel the Contract within this free look period, we will not assess an Early Withdrawal Charge. Unless otherwise required by state law, you will receive the Account Value of your Contract on the day that we receive your cancellation request. The amount you receive may be more or less than your Purchase Payment(s) depending upon the amount of interest earned by your Contract during the free look period and any Vested Gain or Loss that applies as of the day that we receive your cancellation request. This means that you bear the risk of any decline in the Account Value of your Contract during the free look period. We do not refund any Early Withdrawal Charges assessed during the free look period that relate to a withdrawal taken before you cancel the Contract.

In certain states, we are required to give back your Purchase Payment(s) if you decide to cancel your Contract during the free look period. If we are required by law to refund your Purchase Payment(s), we reserve the right to hold your Purchase Payment(s) in the Purchase Payment Account until the first Strategy Application Date on or after the end of the free look period. In those states, no interest or Vested Gain will be paid.

**Annual Statement and Confirmations** 

At least once each calendar year, we will send you a statement that will show: (1) your Account Value; (2) all transactions regarding your Contract during the year; and (3) the interest credited to your Contract and Vested Gains and Losses credited to your Contract.

We will also send you written confirmations of Purchase Payments, Strategy allocations and renewals, withdrawals, and other financial transactions under your Contract. Statements and confirmations will be sent to your last known address on our records.

You should promptly report any inaccuracy or discrepancy in a statement or confirmation. To report an inaccuracy or discrepancy, contact us at P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5423, or call us at 1-800-789-6771. To protect your rights, you should consider reconfirming any oral communications by sending a written statement to P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5423.

**Electronic Delivery** 

You may elect to receive electronic delivery of the Contract prospectus and other Contract related documents. Contact us at our website at www.massmutualascend.com for more information and to enroll.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**Abandoned Property Requirements** 

Every state has unclaimed property laws. These laws generally declare annuity contracts to be abandoned after a period of inactivity of three to five years from: (1) the latest permitted Annuity Payout Initiation Date; or (2) the date of death for which a Death Benefit is due and payable. For example, if the payment of a death benefit has been triggered, but the beneficiary does not come forward to claim the death benefit in a timely manner, the unclaimed property laws will apply.

If a Death Benefit, Annuity Payout Benefit payments or other contract proceeds are unclaimed, we will pay them to the abandoned property division or unclaimed property office of the applicable state. (Escheatment is the formal, legal name for this process.) For example, on an unclaimed Death Benefit, depending on the circumstances, the proceeds are paid: (1) to the state where the beneficiary last resided, as shown on our books and records; (2) to the state where the contract owner last resided, as shown on our books and records; or (3) to Ohio, which is our state of domicile. The state will hold the proceeds without interest until a valid claim is made by the person entitled to the proceeds.

To prevent escheatment of the Death Benefit, Annuity Payout Benefit payments, or other proceeds from your Contract, it is important:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• to update your contact information, such as your address, phone number, and email address, if and as it changes;
and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• to update your Beneficiary and other designations, including complete names, complete addresses, phone numbers,
and social security numbers, if and as they change.

Please contact us at P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5423, or call us at 1-800-789-6771, to make such updates.

State unclaimed property laws do not apply to annuity contracts that are held under an employer retirement plan that is subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).

**Owner** 

The Owner on the Contract Effective Date is set out on your Contract Specifications Page. The Owner possesses all of the ownership rights under a Contract, such as making allocations among the Strategies, electing a Payout Option, and designating a Beneficiary.

If an Owner is a trust, custodial account, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or other entity, then the age of the eldest Annuitant is treated as the age of the Owner for all purposes of this Contract.

**Joint Owners** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Nonqualified Contract*** . Two persons may jointly own the Contract. In this case, the term
"Owner" includes the joint Owner and you must exercise all rights of ownership by joint action.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Tax Qualified Contract*** . No joint owner is permitted.

**Change of Owner** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Nonqualified Contract.*** You may change the Owner at any time during your lifetime. A change of
Owner cancels all prior Beneficiary designations. It does not cancel a designation of an Annuitant or a Payout Option election.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Tax Qualified Contract*** . You cannot change the Owner except to the limited extent permitted by
the tax qualification endorsement.

A change of Owner must be made by a Request in Good Order. A change of Owner may have adverse tax consequences.

**Assignment** 

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Nonqualified Contract*** . You may assign all or any part of your rights under this Contract
except your rights to designate or change a Beneficiary or an Annuitant, to change Owners, or to elect a Payout Option.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Tax Qualified Contract*** . You cannot assign your rights under this Contract except to the
limited extent permitted by the tax qualification endorsement.

An assignment must be made by a Request in Good Order. We are not responsible for the validity of any assignment. An assignment may have adverse tax consequences.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
The rights of a person holding an assignment, including the right to any payment under this Contract, come before the rights of an Owner, Annuitant, Beneficiary, or other payee. An assignment may be ended only the person holding it or as provided by law.

**Successor Owner** 

Your spouse becomes the successor owner of the Contract and succeeds to all rights of ownership if all of the following requirements are met:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a Death Benefit is payable on account of your death;

spouse;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• either you make that election by a Request in Good Order before your death or your spouse makes that election by
a Request in Good Order before the Death Benefit Payment Date; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• you were not a successor owner of the Contract.

A successor owner election cancels all prior Beneficiary designations. It does not cancel a designation of an Annuitant or a Payout Option election.

In some states, state law extends this successor owner right to a civil union partner or other person who is not your spouse as defined by federal tax law. In that case, distributions after your death must be made as required by the Death Benefit Distributions Rules described in the Death Benefit section on page [ ].

**Community Property** 

If you live in a community property state and have a spouse at any time while you own this Contract, the laws of that state may vary your ownership rights.

**Annuitant** 

The Annuitant is the natural person on whose life Annuity Payout Benefit payments are based. The Annuitant on the Contract Effective Date is set out on your Contract Specifications Page.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Nonqualified Contract*** . The Annuitant cannot be changed at any time that the Contract is owned
by a trust, custodial account, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or other entity. Otherwise, you may change a designation of Annuitant at any time before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;•  ***For a Tax Qualified Contract*** . The Annuitant must be the natural person covered under the retirement
arrangement for whose benefit the Contract is held.

A change of Annuitant must be made by a Request in Good Order. A change of Annuitant does not cancel a designation of a Beneficiary or a Payout Option election.

If an Annuitant dies before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date and no Death Benefit is payable, then in the absence of a new designation, the Annuitant will be:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the surviving joint Annuitant(s); or if none

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the Owner(s).

**Beneficiary** 

A Beneficiary is a person entitled to receive all or part of a Death Benefit that is to be paid under this Contract on account of a death before the Annuity Payout Initiation Date.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If a Death Benefit becomes payable on account of your death or the death of a joint Owner, then the surviving
Owner is the Beneficiary no matter what other designation you may have made.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• In all other cases, you may designate a person or person who will be the Beneficiaries as provided in the
Designation of Beneficiary provision of the Contract.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• If no designated Beneficiary is surviving, then the Beneficiary is your estate.

your spouse and all other requirements for successor ownership are met, then your spouse may become the successor owner of the Contract in lieu of receiving the Death Benefit.

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
A designation of Beneficiary must be made by a Request in Good Order. We must receive the request on or before the date of death for which a Death Benefit is payable.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You may designate two or more persons jointly as the Beneficiaries. Unless you state otherwise, joint
Beneficiaries that are surviving are entitled to equal shares.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• You may designate one or more persons as contingent Beneficiary. Unless you state otherwise, a contingent
Beneficiary is entitled to a benefit only if there is no primary Beneficiary who that is surviving.

**Survivorship Required** 

In order to be entitled to receive a Death Benefit, a Beneficiary must survive for at least 30 days after the death for which the Death Benefit is payable.

If you designate your spouse as a Beneficiary and your marriage ends before your death, we will treat your former spouse as having predeceased you unless:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• a court order provides that the former spouse's rights as a beneficiary are to continue; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• the former spouse remains or becomes an Owner.

**Other Contract Provisions** 

**Amendment of the Contract** 

We reserve the right to amend the Contract to comply with applicable Federal or state laws or regulations. We will notify you in writing of any such amendments.

**Misstatement** 

We may require proof of the age of the Annuitant, Owner and/or the Beneficiary before making any payments under the Contract that are measured by such person's life. If the age of the measuring life has been misstated, the amount payable will be the amount that would have been provided at the correct age. If payments based on the correct age would have been higher, we will pay the underpaid amount with interest. If payments would be lower, we may deduct the overpaid amount, with interest, from succeeding payments.

**Involuntary Termination** 

If your Account Value on any anniversary of the initial Strategy Application Date is below the minimum value of $5,000 for any reason, we may terminate your Contract on that anniversary. If your Contract has Terms that end on the same date because you made only one Purchase Payment, any involuntary termination will occur on that date. If your Contract has Terms that end on different dates because you made more than one Purchase Payment, any involuntary termination will occur on one of those dates, which will be the end of one Term but not the end of the other Terms. In this case, the Surrender Value payable upon termination of your Contract will reflect the Vested Gains and Vested Losses used to calculate the values of Indexed Strategies with Terms that are not ending on the termination date.

**Loans** 

Loans are not available under the Contract.

**Previous Notice Methods** 

For contracts issued before May 1, 2019, we will send you a written notice at least 30 days before the end of each Term with the Declared Rate and the Maximum Gains that will apply for the next Term.

**State Variations** 

This prospectus describes the material features of the Contract. Contracts issued in your state may provide different features and benefits from, and impose different costs than, those described in this prospectus because of state law variations. However, please note that the maximum charge is set forth in this prospectus. If you would like to review a copy of the Contract and any endorsements, contact us at P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, OH 45201-5423, visit our website at www.massmutualascend.com or call us at 1-800-789-6771.

The following information is a summary of material state variations as of the date of this prospectus.

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***General***

*For Contracts Issued in Illinois and New Jersey:* References to "spouse" have been changed to "spouse or civil union partner."

***Extended Care Waiver Rider.*** The table below summarizes material state variations related to the rider.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *For Contracts Issued in:* | *Variations in Extended Care Waiver Rider* |
| California | The Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges for Facility Care or Home Care or Community-Based Services Rider (CA Rider) replaces the Extended Care Waiver Rider. The CA Rider provides a waiver under an expanded set of circumstances. The waiver will apply if, at the time of the withdrawal or surrender, or within the immediately preceding 90 days, the following conditions are met: (1) the insured is confined in a facility or is receiving, as prescribed by a physician, registered nurse or licensed social worker, home care or community-based services; (2) the insured's confinement in a facility, the insured's receipt of home care or community-based services, or any combination thereof has continued for a period of at least 90 consecutive days; and (3) the first day of such 90-day period was at least one year after the contract effective date. Facility includes a skilled nursing facility, a convalescent nursing home, or an extended care facility or a residential care facility or a residential care facility for the elderly. Home care or community-based services includes home health care, adult day care, personal care, homemaker services, hospice services and respite care as defined in the rider. Additional conforming changes have been made including revised and new definitions, and inclusion of a description of circumstances under which the waiver does not apply. The termination provision has been modified to reflect that the rider will not terminate if you transfer or assign an interest in the contract to a person or entity other than the insured. |
| Connecticut | The conditions under which the waiver applies have been modified. The waiver will apply if at the time of a withdrawal or surrender or within the immediately preceding 90 days all of the following conditions are met: (1) an insured is confined in a long-term care facility or hospital; and (2) the confinement has continued for a period of at least 90 consecutive days. |
| Kansas | The conditions under which the waiver applies have been modified. The first day of confinement must be at least 90 days after the contract effective date, rather than one year after the contract effective date. |
| Massachusetts and Missouri | This waiver rider in not available in Massachusetts or Missouri. |
| Montana | The definition of medically necessary has been modified and refers to the insured's physician. |
| Nebraska | The definition of skilled nursing facility has been modified by adding a licensed practical nurse to the list of persons who may provide nursing services or supervise the provision of nursing services. |
| New Hampshire | The definition of skilled nursing facility has been modified by changing the phrase "licensed and operated as a skilled nursing facility" to "operated as a skilled nursing facility." |
| Pennsylvania | The conditions under which the waiver is available have been modified. The waiver will apply if at the time of a withdrawal or surrender or within the immediately preceding 90 days all of the following conditions are met: (1) an insured is confined in one or more long-term care facilities, hospital, or a combination of such; (2) the confinement is prescribed by a physician and is medically necessary; (3) the first day of the confinement is at least one year after the contract effective date; and (4) the confinement has continued for a period of at least 90 consecutive days, or has continued for a total of at least 90 days if each successive confinement occurs within six months of the previous confinement and is for the same related medical cause.<br>The definition of long-term care facility has been modified. The following facilities have been deleted from the list of facilities excluded from that definition: a facility that primarily treats drug addicts and a facility that is a home for the mentally ill. An exclusion provision has been added to clarify that the waiver will not apply if the insured is confined in a long-term care facility or hospital for the treatment of certain types of drug addiction or mental illnesses.<br>The definition of hospital has been modified by changing the phrase "it maintains, or has access to, medical, diagnostic, and major surgical facilities" to "it maintains, or has access to, medical and diagnostic facilities." |
| Vermont | The definition of long-term care facility has been modified. The following facilities have been deleted from the list of excluded facilities: a facility that primarily treats drug addicts, a facility that primarily treats alcoholics, and a facility that is a home for the mentally ill.<br>The definition of physician has been modified by changing the phrase "a person who is licensed in the United States as a medical doctor or a doctor of osteopathy and who is practicing within the scope of his or her license" to "a person who is licensed in the United States who is providing medical care and treatment when such services are provided within the scope of his or her license and provided pursuant to applicable law." |

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *For Contracts Issued in:* | *Variations in Extended Care Waiver Rider* |
| Washington | The waiver is based on confinement to an extended care facility or hospital rather than a long-term care facility or hospital. Definitions are modified to reflect the new terminology, references to "skilled nursing facility" are changed to "nursing facility" and the related definition is modified. In the definition of nursing facility and hospital, a licensed practical nurse is added to the list of persons who may provide nursing services or supervise the provision of nursing services. |

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***Terminal Illness Waiver Rider.*** The table below summarizes material state variations related to the rider.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| *For Contracts Issued in:* | *Variations in Terminal Illness Waiver Rider* |
| Illinois, Kansas, Washington | As a result of the terminal illness, your life expectancy must be 24 months from the date of death, rather than 12 months. |
| Kansas | The diagnosis must be rendered 90 days after the contract effective date, rather than one year after the contract effective date. |
| New Jersey | The requirement related to the timing of the diagnosis does not apply. But the waiver will not be available until at least one year after the contract effective date. |
| Massachusetts | This waiver rider in not available in Massachusetts. |
| Pennsylvania | The diagnosis must be rendered after the contract effective date, rather than one year after the contract effective date. But the waiver will not be available until at least one year after the contract effective date.<br>The waiver is based on a terminal condition as defined in the rider, rather than a terminal illness. |
| Texas | The diagnosis must be rendered on or after the contract effective date, rather than one year after the contract effective date. |

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***Form of Annuity Payout Benefit***

*For Contracts Issued in Texas:* Payments under a Payout Option are subject to a $50 minimum.

***Right to Cancel (Free Look)***

State law governs the length of the free look period and the amount of the refund that you will receive. The table below summarizes the state law provisions.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *For Contracts Issued in:* | *Free Look Period and Refund* | *Replacement Situations:*<br> *Free Look Period and Refund* |
| Alabama, Colorado, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia | 20 days<br> Account Value | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges |
| Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, New Jersey, North Dakota, South Dakota | 20 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges |
| Arkansas, District of Columbia, Pennsylvania | 20 days<br> Account Value | 30 days<br> Account Value |
| Delaware, Indiana, Massachusetts, Tennessee | 20 days<br> Account Value | 30 days<br> Purchase Payments |
| Georgia, Idaho, Missouri, Nevada, Oklahoma, Utah | 20 days<br> Purchase Payments | 30 days<br> Purchase Payments |
| Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas | 20 days<br> Purchase Payments | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges |
| California | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges<br> If owner is age 60 or older, refund amount is Purchase Payments | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges<br> If owner is age 60 or older, refund amount is Purchase Payments |
| Florida | 21 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges |
| Minnesota | 20 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges | 30 days<br> Purchase Payments |

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| *For Contracts Issued in:* | *Free Look Period and Refund* | *Replacement Situations:*<br> *Free Look Period and Refund* |
| Washington | 20 days<br> Greater of: (1) Purchase Payments or (2) Account Value minus taxes | 30 days<br> Purchase Payments |
| Wisconsin | 30 days<br> Account Value | 30 days<br> Account Value + Fees/Charges |
| Wyoming | 20 days<br> Account Value | 30 days<br> Greater of: (1) Purchase Payments or (2) Account Value + Fees/Charges |

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***Assignment***

*For Contracts Issued in Ohio:* Subject to the tax qualifications endorsement, if any, you may assign your rights to designate or change a Beneficiary or an Annuitant, to change Owners, or to elect a Payout Option if you make a specific Request in Good Order.

***Amendment of the Contract***

*For Contracts Issued in Florida and Texas:* You have the right to reject an endorsement that changes the provisions of this Contract to obtain or retain the intended tax treatment under federal tax law, or to take into account other pertinent laws and governmental regulations and rulings. We will not be responsible for the tax or other consequences of your rejection.

***Involuntary Termination***

*For Contracts Issued in Texas:* Our right to terminate this Contract is not tied to the minimum required value. We have the right to terminate this Contract if the Account Value would provide a benefit of less than $20 each month at age 70 under a life payout with payments for at least a fixed period of 10 years.

**Index Replacement** 

We may replace an Index if it is discontinued or we are no longer able to use it, its calculation changes substantially, or we determine that hedging instruments are difficult to acquire or the cost of hedging becomes excessive. We may do so at the end of a Term or during a Term. We will notify you in writing at least 30 days before we replace an Index.

We would attempt to choose a replacement Index that is similar to the old Index. To determine if a new Index is similar, we will consider factors such as asset class, Index composition, strategy or methodology inherent to the Index and Index liquidity.

If we replace an Index during a Term, we will calculate Vested Gains and Losses using the old Index up until the replacement date. After the replacement date, we will calculate Vested Gains and Losses using the new Index, but with a modified start of Term value for the new Index. The modified start of Term value for the new Index will reflect the Index Change for the old Index from the start of the Term to the replacement date.

If we replace an Index, the applicable Maximum Gain and Bailout Trigger for the Term, the applicable Maximum Loss or Buffer, and the Vesting Factors will not change.

*Example.* This example is intended to show how we would calculate Vested Gain or Loss on any day during a Term if we have replaced an Index during the Term. This example assumes: (1) you allocate $50,000 to a Growth/-10% Floor Strategy; and (2) the replacement is made on day 90 of the Term. To simplify the example, we assume that you take no withdrawals during the Term.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  **Index Change on Replacement Date for Old Index** |  |
|  Old Index Value at Term Start | 1000 |
|  Old Index Value on Replacement Date | 1050 |
|  Old Index Change on Replacement Date | (1050 - 1000) / 1,000 = 5% |

---

The 5% Index Change on the Replacement Date is then used to calculate the modified start of Term value for the new Index.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  **Modified Start of Term Value for New Index** |  |
|  Old Index Change on Replacement Date | 5% |
|  New Index Value on Replacement Date | 1785 |
|  Modified Start of Term Value for New Index | 1785 / (100% + 5%) = 1700 |

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The modified start of Term value for the new Index is then used to calculate the Strategy value on any date after the replacement date, including the value at the Term end.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Strategy Value at Term End** |  |
| Investment Base at Term Start | $50000 |
| Modified Start of Term Value for New Index | 1700 |
| Value of New Index at Term End | 1853 |
| Positive Index Change | (1853 - 1,700) / 1700) = 9% |
| Maximum Gain | Gain of 8% |
| Positive Index Change Limited by Maximum Gain | 8% |
| Vesting Factor for Positive Index Change at Term End | 100% |
| Vested Gain as a Percentage | 8% x 100% = 8% |
| Vested Gain in Dollars | $50,000 x 8% = $4,000 |
| Strategy Value at Term End | $50,000 + $4,000 = $54,000 |

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**Federal Tax Considerations** 

This section provides a general description of federal income tax considerations relating to the Contracts. The purchase, holding and transfer of a Contract may have federal estate and gift tax consequences in addition to income tax consequences. Estate and gift taxation is not discussed in this prospectus. State taxation will vary, depending on the state in which you reside, and is not discussed in this prospectus.

The tax information provided in this prospectus is not intended or written to be used as legal or tax advice. It is written solely to provide general information related to the sale and holding of the Contracts. You should seek advice on legal or tax questions based on your particular circumstances from an attorney or tax advisor who is not affiliated with MassMutual Ascend Life.

**Tax Deferral on Annuities** 

Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 72 governs taxation of annuities in general. The income earned on a Contract is generally not included in income until it is withdrawn from the Contract. In other words, a Contract is a tax-deferred investment. Tax deferral is not available for a Contract when an Owner is not a natural person unless the Contract is part of a tax-qualified retirement plan or the Owner is a mere agent for a natural person. For a nonqualified deferred compensation plan, this rule means that the employer as Owner of the Contract will generally be taxed currently on any increase in the Surrender Value, although the plan itself may provide a tax deferral to the participating employee.

Under certain circumstances, based on a rule known as the "Investor Control Doctrine," the IRS has stated that the holder of an annuity contract could be treated as the owner (for tax purposes) of the assets of a separate account that supports the annuity contract. If you were treated as the owner of an interest in the separate account, then you would be taxed on the income, gain, and loss arising out of your interest in the separate account. Although the IRS has not provided definitive guidance on the application of this rule to indexed annuity contracts, we do not believe that this rule applies to the Contract because you have no specific, fractional, or unitized interest in the separate account assets, we are not obligated to invest the separate account in any particular assets, the investment return and market value of the separate account assets is not allocated in an identical manner to any Contract, the Contract values are determined based on gains and losses regardless of the performance of the separate account assets, and the derivatives that we may hold in the separate account are not publicly traded.

**Tax-Qualified Retirement Plans** 

Annuities may also qualify for tax-deferred treatment, or serve as a funding vehicle, under tax-qualified retirement plans that are governed by other IRC provisions. These provisions include IRC Section 401 (pension, profit sharing, and 401(k) plans), IRC Section 403(b) (tax-sheltered annuities), IRC Sections 408 and 408A (individual retirement annuities), and IRC Section 457(b) (governmental deferred compensation plans). Tax-deferral is generally also available under these tax-qualified retirement plans through the use of a trust or custodial account without the use of an annuity.

The tax law rules governing tax-qualified retirement plans and the treatment of amounts held and distributed under such plans are complex. If the Contract is to be used in connection with a tax-qualified retirement plan, including an individual retirement annuity ("IRA") under a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) Plan, you should seek competent legal and tax advice regarding the suitability of the Contract for your particular situation.

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Contributions to a tax-qualified Contract are typically made with pre-tax dollars, while contributions to other Contracts are typically made from after-tax dollars, though there are exceptions in either case. Tax-qualified Contracts may also be subject to restrictions on withdrawals that do not apply to other Contracts. These restrictions may be imposed to meet the requirements of the IRC or of an employer plan.

Following is a brief description of the types of tax-qualified retirement plans for which the Contracts are available.

**Individual Retirement Annuities.** IRC Sections 219 and 408 permit certain individuals or their employers to contribute to an individual retirement arrangement known as an "Individual Retirement Annuity" or "IRA". Under applicable limitations, an individual may claim a tax deduction for certain contributions to an IRA. Contributions made to an IRA for an employee under a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) Plan or Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees (SIMPLE) established by an employer are not includable in the gross income of the employee until distributed from the IRA. Distributions from an IRA are taxable to the extent that they represent contributions for which a tax deduction was claimed, contributions made under a SEP plan or SIMPLE, or income earned within the IRA.

**Roth IRAs.** IRC Section 408A permits certain individuals to contribute to a Roth IRA. Contributions to a Roth IRA are not tax deductible. Tax-free distributions of contributions may be made at any time. Distributions of earnings are tax-free following the five-year period beginning with the first year for which a Roth IRA contribution was made if the Owner has attained age 59 1/2, become disabled, or died, or for qualified first-time homebuyer expenses.

**Tax-Sheltered Annuities.** IRC Section 403(b) of permits public schools and charitable, religious, educational, and scientific organizations described in IRC Section 501(c)(3) to establish "tax-sheltered annuity" or "TSA" plans for their employees. TSA contributions and Contract earnings are generally not included in the gross income of the employee until distributed from the TSA. Amounts attributable to contributions made under a salary reduction agreement cannot be distributed until the employee attains age 59 1/2, severs employment, becomes disabled, incurs a hardship, is eligible for a qualified reservist distribution, or dies. The IRC and the plan may impose additional restrictions on distributions.

**Pension, Profit-Sharing, and 401(k) Plans.** IRC Section 401 permits employers to establish various types of retirement plans for employees, and permits self-employed individuals to establish such plans for themselves and their employees. These plans may use annuity contracts to fund plan benefits. Generally, contributions are deductible to the employer in the year made, and contributions and earnings are generally not included in the gross income of the employee until distributed from the plan. The IRC and the plan may impose restrictions on distributions. Purchasers of a Contract for use with such plans should seek competent advice regarding the suitability of the Contract under the particular plan.

**Governmental Eligible Deferred Compensation Plans.** State and local government employers may purchase annuity contracts to fund eligible deferred compensation plans for their employees, as described in IRC Section 457(b). Contributions and earnings are generally not included in the gross income of the employee until the employee receives distributions from the plan. Amounts cannot be distributed until the employee attains age 70 1/2, severs employment, becomes disabled, incurs an unforeseeable emergency, or dies. The plan may impose additional restrictions on distributions.

**Roth TSAs, Roth 401(k)s, and Roth 457(b)s.** IRC Section 402A permits TSA plans, 401(k) plans, and governmental 457(b) plans to allow participating employees to designate some part or all of their future elective contributions as Roth contributions. Roth contributions to a TSA plan, 401(k) plan, or governmental 457(b) plan are included in the employee's taxable income as earned. Amounts attributable to Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) contributions must be held in a separate account from amounts attributable to traditional pre-tax TSA, 401(k), or 457(b) contributions. Distributions from a Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) account are considered to come proportionally from contributions and earnings. Distributions attributable to Roth account contributions are tax-free. Distributions attributable to Roth account earnings are tax-free following the five-year period beginning with the first year for which Roth contributions are made to the plan if the employee has attained age 59 1/2, become disabled, or died. A Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) account is subject to the same distribution restrictions that apply to amounts attributable to traditional pre-tax TSA, 401(k), or 457(b) contributions made under a salary reduction agreement. The plan may impose additional restrictions on distributions.

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**Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans** 

Employers may invest in annuity contracts in connection with unfunded deferred compensation plans for their employees. Such plans may include eligible deferred compensation plans of non-governmental tax-exempt employers, as described in IRC Section 457(b); deferred compensation plans of both governmental and nongovernmental tax-exempt employers that are taxed under IRC Section 457(f) and subject to Section 409A; and nonqualified deferred compensation plans of for-profit employers subject to Section 409A. In most cases, these plans are designed so that amounts credited under the plan will not be includable in the employees' gross income until paid under the plan. In these situations, the annuity contracts are not plan assets and are subject to the claims of the employer's general creditors. Whether or not made from the Contract, plan benefit payments are subject to restrictions imposed by the IRC and the plan.

**Summary of Income Tax Rules** 

The following chart summarizes the basic income tax rules governing tax-qualified retirement plans, nonqualified deferred compensation plans, and other non-tax-qualified Contracts.

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Tax-Qualified Contracts**<br> **and Plans** | **Nonqualified Deferred<br>Compensation Plans** | **Other Non-Tax-Qualified<br>Contracts** |
| Plan Types | • IRC §408 (IRA, SEP, SIMPLE IRA)<br> • IRC §408A (Roth IRA)<br> • IRC §403(b) (Tax-Sheltered Annuity)<br> • IRC §401 (Pension, Profit– Sharing, 401(k))<br> • Governmental IRC §457(b)<br> • IRC §402A (Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b)) | • IRC §409A<br> • Nongovernmental IRC §457(b)<br> • IRC §457(f) | • IRC §72 only |
| Who May Purchase a Contract | Eligible employee, employer, or employer plan. | Employer on behalf of eligible employee. Employer generally loses tax-deferred status of Contract itself. | Anyone. Non-natural person will generally lose tax-deferred status. |
| Contribution Limits | Contributions are limited by IRC and/or plan requirements. | Contributions are limited by IRC and/or plan requirements. | None. |
| Distribution Restrictions | Distributions from Contract and/or plan may be restricted to meet IRC and/or plan requirements. | Distributions from Contract and/or plan may be restricted to meet IRC and/or plan requirements. | None. |
| Taxation of Withdrawals, Surrenders, and Lump Sum Death Benefit | Generally, 100% of distributions must be included in taxable income. However, the portion that represents an after-tax investment is not taxable. Distributions from Roth IRA are deemed to come first from after- tax contributions. Distributions from other plans are generally deemed to come from income and after-tax investment (if any) on a pro-rata basis. Distributions from §408A Roth IRA or §402A Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) are completely tax free if certain requirements are met.<br>For tax purposes, all IRAs and SEP IRAs of an owner are treated as a single IRA, and all Roth IRAs of an owner are treated as a single Roth IRA. | Generally, 100% of distributions must be included in taxable income. However, the portion that represents an after-tax investment is not taxable. Distributions from Roth IRA are deemed to come first from after- tax contributions. Distributions from other plans are generally deemed to come from income and after-tax investment (if any) on a pro-rata basis. Distributions from §408A Roth IRA or §402A Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) are completely tax free if certain requirements are met.<br>For tax purposes, all IRAs and SEP IRAs of an owner are treated as a single IRA, and all Roth IRAs of an owner are treated as a single Roth IRA. | Generally, distributions must be included in taxable income until all accumulated earnings are paid out. Thereafter, distributions are tax-free return of the original investment. However, distributions are tax-free until any investment made before August 14, 1982 is returned.<br>For tax purposes, all non-tax-qualified annuity contracts issued to the same owner by the same insurer in the same calendar year are treated as one contract. |
| Taxation of Payout Option Payments (Annuity Benefit or Death Benefit) | A percentage of each payment is tax free equal to the ratio of after-tax investment (if any) to the total expected payments, and the balance is included in taxable income. Once the after-tax investment has been recovered, the full amount of each benefit payment is included in taxable income. Distributions from a Roth IRA, Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) are completely tax free if certain requirements are met. | A percentage of each payment is tax free equal to the ratio of after-tax investment (if any) to the total expected payments, and the balance is included in taxable income. Once the after-tax investment has been recovered, the full amount of each benefit payment is included in taxable income. Distributions from a Roth IRA, Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) are completely tax free if certain requirements are met. | A percentage of each payment is tax free equal to the ratio of after-tax investment (if any) to the total expected payments, and the balance is included in taxable income. Once the after-tax investment has been recovered, the full amount of each benefit payment is included in taxable income. Distributions from a Roth IRA, Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b) are completely tax free if certain requirements are met. |

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| | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **Tax-Qualified Contracts**<br> **and Plans** | **Nonqualified Deferred<br>Compensation Plans** | **Other Non-Tax-Qualified<br>Contracts** |
| Possible Penalty Taxes for Distributions Before Age 59 1/2 | Taxable portion of payments made before age 59 1/2 may be subject to 10% penalty tax (or 25% for a SIMPLE IRA during the first two years of participation). Penalty taxes do not apply to payments after the participant's death, or to §457 plans. Other exceptions may apply. | None. | Taxable portion of payments made before age 59 1/2 may be subject to a 10% penalty tax. Penalty taxes do not apply to payments after the Owner's death. Other exceptions may apply. |
| Assignment/ Transfer of Contract | Assignment and transfer of Ownership generally not permitted. | Assignment and transfer of Ownership generally not permitted. | Generally, deferred earnings taxable to transferor upon transfer or assignment. Gift tax consequences are not discussed herein. |
| Federal Income Tax Withholding | Eligible rollover distributions from §401, §403(b), and governmental §457(b) plans are subject to 20% mandatory withholding on taxable portion unless direct rollover. For other payments, Payee may generally elect to have taxes withheld or not. | Generally subject to wage withholding. | Generally, Payee may elect to have taxes withheld or not. |

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![LOGO](g473116g0316054605345.jpg)

**Rollovers, Transfers, and Exchanges** 

Amounts from a tax-qualified Contract may be rolled over, transferred, or exchanged into another tax-qualified account or retirement plan as permitted by the IRC and plan(s). Amounts may be rolled over, transferred, or exchanged into a tax-qualified Contract from another tax-qualified account or retirement plan as permitted by the IRC and plan(s). In most cases, such a rollover, transfer, or exchange is not taxable, unless the rollover of pre-tax amounts is made into a Roth IRA, a Roth TSA, Roth 401(k), or Roth 457(b). Rollovers, transfers, and exchanges are not subject to normal contribution limits. The IRC or plan may require that rollovers be held in a separate Contract from other plan funds.

Amounts from a non-tax-qualified Contract may be transferred to another non-tax-qualified annuity or to a qualified long-term care policy as a tax-free exchange as permitted by the IRC Section 1035. Amounts from another non-tax-qualified annuity or from a life insurance or endowment policy may be transferred to a Contract as a tax-free exchange under IRC Section 1035.

**Required Distributions** 

The Contracts are subject to the required distribution rules of federal tax law. These rules vary based on the tax qualification of the Contract or the plan under which it is issued.

For a tax-qualified Contract other than a Roth IRA, required minimum distributions must generally begin by April 1 following the year the participant attains age 73 (age 72 if born after June 30, 1949, but before January 1, 1951 or age 70 1/2 if born before July 1, 1949). However, for a 403(b) Tax-Sheltered Annuity Plan, a 401 Pension, Profit-Sharing, or 401(k) Plan, or a 457(b) Governmental Deferred Compensation Plan, a participant who is not a 5% owner of the employer may delay required minimum distributions until April 1 following the year in which the participant retires from that employer. The required minimum distributions during life are calculated based on standard life expectancy tables adopted under federal tax law.

For a Roth IRA or for a Contract that is not tax-qualified, there are no required distributions during life.

A tax-qualified Contract must make required distributions after death. The required distributions vary depending on the type of beneficiary. Some beneficiaries may take payments over life or life expectancy, and others must receive all benefits within five or ten years after death. A non-tax-qualified Contract that has begun making payments under a payout option during the Owner's life must make any remaining payments at least as rapidly after death. If payments from a non-tax-qualified Contract have not begun, then the death benefit must be paid out in full within five years after death, or must be paid out in substantially equal payments beginning within one year of death over a period not exceeding the life expectancy of the designated beneficiary.

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For a traditional IRA, a Roth IRA, or a Contract that is not tax-qualified, a beneficiary who is a surviving spouse may elect out of these requirements, and apply the required distribution rules as if the Contract were his or her own. For this purpose, federal tax law recognizes as married any two people whose marriage is valid in the state in which it was celebrated. A civil union or domestic partnership is not considered a marriage.

**Premium and Other Taxes** 

We reserve the right to deduct from the Purchase Payment or Account Value any taxes relating to the Contract paid by us to any government entity (including, but not limited to, premium taxes, additional taxes, and maintenance taxes on insurers, Federal, state and local withholding of income, estate, inheritance, or other taxes required by law from annuity purchase payments, and any new or increased taxes on insurers or annuity purchase payments that may be enacted into law).

Currently some state governments impose premium taxes, additional taxes, and maintenance taxes on insurers based on annuity purchase payments received or applied to an annuity payout benefit. These taxes currently range from zero to 3.5% depending upon the jurisdiction and the tax qualification of the Contract. A federal premium tax has been proposed but not enacted. We may deduct any such premium or other taxes from the Purchase Payments or the Account Value at the time that the tax is imposed. We may also deduct any such tax not previously deducted from the Annuity Payout Value or Death Benefit Value.

We reserve the right to deduct from the Contract for any income taxes that we incur because of the Contract. At the present time, however, we are not incurring any such income tax or making any such deductions.

**Distribution of the Contracts** 

MM Ascend Life Investor Services, LLC ("MMALIS") is the principal underwriter and distributor of the securities offered through this prospectus. MMALIC and MMALIS are affiliated because MMALIS is a subsidiary of MMALIC. MMALIS also acts as the principal underwriter and distributor of the variable annuity contracts that are issued by one of our subsidiaries.

MMALIS's principal executive offices are located at 191 Rosa Parks Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. MMALIS is registered as a broker- dealer with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as well as the securities regulators in the states in which it operates and registration is required. MMALIS is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA").

Contracts are sold by licensed insurance agents (the "Selling Agents") in those states where the Contract may be lawfully sold. Such Selling Agents will be appointed agents of MMALIC and will be registered representatives of broker-dealer firms (the "Selling Broker-Dealers") that have entered into selling agreements with us and MMALIS. Selling Broker-Dealers will be registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and will be members of FINRA.

FINRA provides background information about broker-dealers and their registered representatives through FINRA BrokerCheck. You may contact the FINRA BrokerCheck Hotline at 1-800-289-9999, or log on to www.finra.org to learn more about MMALIS, your Selling Agent, and his or her Selling Broker Dealer.

MMALIS receives no compensation for acting as underwriter of the Contracts; however, MMALIC pays for some of MMALIS's operating and other expenses, including overhead and legal and accounting fees. MMALIC may reimburse MMALIS for certain sales expenses, such as marketing materials and advertising expenses, and other expenses of distributing the Contracts.

MMALIC or MMALIS pay the Selling Broker-Dealers compensation for the promotion and sale of the Contract. The Selling Agents who solicit sales of the Contract typically receive a portion of the compensation paid to the Selling Broker-Dealers in the form of commissions or other compensation, depending on the agreement between the Selling Broker-Dealer and the Selling Agent.

The amount and timing of commissions paid to Selling Broker-Dealers may vary depending on the selling agreement but is not expected to be more than 9.2% of each Purchase Payment. In most cases, such amounts paid to a Selling Broker-Dealer will be divided between the Selling Agent and the Selling Broker-Dealer. Some Selling Broker-Dealers may elect to receive a lower commission when a Purchase Payment is made, along with annual trail commissions up to 1.5% of Account Value for so long as a contract remains in effect or as agreed in the selling agreement. MMALIC may pay or allow other promotional incentives or payments in the form of cash or other compensation to the extent permitted by FINRA rules and other applicable laws and regulations.

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MMALIC also may pay compensation to wholesaling broker-dealers or other firms or intermediaries in return for wholesaling services such as providing marketing and sales support, product training, and administrative services to the Selling Agents of the Selling Broker-Dealers. These allowances may be based on a percentage of a Purchase Payment.

In addition to the compensation described above, MMALIC may make additional cash payments, in certain circumstances referred to as "override" compensations, or reimbursements to Selling Broker-Dealers in recognition of their marketing and distribution, transaction processing and/or administrative services support. These payments are not offered to all Selling Broker-Dealers, and the terms of any particular agreement governing the payments may vary among Selling Broker-Dealers depending on, among other things, the level and type of marketing and distribution support provided. Marketing and distribution support services may include, among other services, placement of MMALIC's products on the Selling Broker-Dealers' preferred or recommended list, increased access to the Selling Broker-Dealers' registered representatives for purposes of promoting sales of MMALIC products, assistance in training and education of the Selling Agents, and opportunities for MMALIC and MMALIS to participate in sales conferences and educational seminars. The payments or reimbursements may be calculated as a percentage of the particular Selling Broker-Dealer's actual or expected aggregate sales of our indexed annuity contracts (including the Contract) and/or may be a fixed dollar amount. Broker-dealers receiving these additional payments may pass on some or all of the payments to the Selling Agents.

You should ask your Selling Agent for further information about the commissions or other compensation that he or she, or the Selling Broker-Dealer for which he or she works, may receive in connection with your purchase of a Contract.

There is no front-end sales load deducted from the Purchase Payment(s) to pay sales commissions. Commissions and other incentives or payments described above are not charged directly to you. We intend to recoup at least a portion of the sales commissions and other sales expenses through fees and charges deducted under the Contract.

**MassMutual Ascend Life's General Account** 

Our general account (the "General Account") holds all our assets other than assets in our insulated separate accounts. We own our General Account assets, and, subject to applicable law, have sole investment discretion over them. The assets are subject to our general business operation liabilities and claims of our creditors and may lose value. Our General Account assets fund the guarantees provided in the Contracts.

We must invest our assets according to applicable state laws regarding the nature, quality and diversification of investments that may be made by life insurance companies. In general, these laws permit investments, within specified limits and subject to certain qualifications, in Federal, state and municipal obligations, corporate bonds, preferred and common stocks, real estate mortgages, real estate and certain other investments.

We place a majority of the Purchase Payments made under the Contract in our General Account where we primarily invest the assets in a variety of fixed income securities.

We place a portion of the Purchase Payments made under the Contract in a non-unitized separate account (the "Separate Account") that is not registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We established and maintain the Separate Account pursuant to the laws of our domiciliary state for the purpose of supporting our obligation to adjust Indexed Strategy values for Vested Gains and Losses associated with the Indexed Strategies. The assets of the Separate Account are held in our name on behalf of the Separate Account and legally belong to us. The assets in the Separate Account are not chargeable with liabilities arising out of any other business that we conduct. We may invest these assets in hedging instruments, including derivative contracts as well as other assets permitted under state law. To support our obligations to adjust Indexed Strategy values for Vested Gains and Losses associated with the Indexed Strategies, we may move money between the Separate Account and our General Account.

Contract owners do not have any interest in or claim on the assets in the Separate Account nor do Contract owners participate in any way in the performance of assets held in the Separate Account.

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**Legal Matters** 

**Reliance on Rule 12h-7** 

MassMutual Ascend Life relies on the exemption provided by Rule 12h-7 under the Securities Exchange Act of the 1934 Act from the requirement to file reports pursuant to Section 15(d) of that Act.

**Legal Proceedings** 

MassMutual Ascend Life and its subsidiaries are involved in litigation from time to time, generally arising in the ordinary course of business. This litigation may include, but is not limited to, general commercial disputes, lawsuits brought by contract owners and policyholders, employment matters, reinsurance collection matters and actions challenging certain business practices of insurance subsidiaries. Also, from time to time, state and federal regulators or other officials conduct formal and informal examinations or undertake other actions dealing with various aspects of the financial services and insurance industries. It is not possible to predict with certainty the ultimate outcome of any pending legal proceeding or regulatory action. However, MassMutual Ascend Life does not believe any such action or proceeding will have a material adverse effect upon its ability to meet its obligations under the Contracts.

**Legal Opinion on Contracts** 

Legal matters in connection with federal laws and regulations affecting the issue and sale of the Contracts described in this prospectus and the organization of MassMutual Ascend Life, its authority to issue such Contracts under Ohio law, and the validity of the forms of the Contracts under Ohio law have been passed on by John P. Gruber, General Counsel of MassMutual Ascend Life.

**Securities and Exchange Commission Position on Indemnification** 

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling MassMutual Ascend Life pursuant to its articles of incorporation or its code of regulations or pursuant to any insurance coverage or otherwise, MassMutual Ascend Life has been informed that, in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and is therefore unenforceable.

**Experts** 

The statutory financial statements and financial statement schedules of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company as of December 31, 2022, and for the year then ended, have been included herein in reliance upon the report of [ ], independent registered public accounting firm, appearing elsewhere herein, and upon the authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

The [ ] report dated [ ], 2023 of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company includes explanatory language that states that the financial statements are prepared by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company using statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Ohio Department of Insurance, which is a basis of accounting other than U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Accordingly, the [ ] audit report states that the financial statements are not presented fairly in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and further states that those statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, in accordance with statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Ohio Department of Insurance.

The statutory-basis financial statements of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company as of December 31, 2020 and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2020, appearing in this Prospectus and Registration Statement have been audited by [ ], [address], independent auditors, as set forth in their report included thereon. These statutory-basis financial statements are included in this registration statement in reliance on the report of [ ] given on the authority of such firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

The [ ] report dated May 14, 2021 of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company includes explanatory language that states that the financial statements are prepared by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company using statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Ohio Department of Insurance, which is a basis of accounting other than U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Accordingly, the [ ] audit report states that the financial statements are not presented fairly in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and further states that those statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, in accordance with statutory accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the Ohio Department of Insurance.

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**The Registration Statement** 

We filed a Registration Statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933 relating to the Contracts offered by this prospectus. This prospectus was filed as a part of the Registration Statement, but it does not constitute the complete Registration Statement. The Registration Statement contains further information relating to the Company and the Contracts. The Registration Statement and the exhibits thereto may be inspected and copied at the office of the Securities and Exchange Commission, located at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C., and may also be accessed at www.sec.gov. The Securities and Exchange Commission file number for the Contract is 333-[ ].

Statements in this prospectus discussing the content of the Contracts and other legal instruments are summaries. The actual documents are filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement. For a complete statement of the terms of the Contracts or any other legal document, refer to the appropriate exhibit to the Registration Statement.

**SECTION II** 

**MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE INFORMATION** 

[to be added by amendment]

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**PART II — INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS** 

**<u>Item 13. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution</u>**

The following is a list of the estimated expenses to be incurred in connection with the securities being offered.

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| | |
|:---|:---|
|  Estimated Accounting Fees | $[2,232,020] |
|  Estimated Filing Fees | $0 |
|  Estimated Legal Fees | $[200,000] |
|  Registration Fees | $0 |

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**<u>Item 14. Indemnification of Directors and Officers</u>**

Ohio Revised Code, Section 1701.13(E), allows indemnification by the Registrant to any person made or threatened to be made a party to any proceedings, other than a proceeding by or in the right of the Registrant, by reason of the fact that he is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Registrant, against expenses, including judgment and fines, if he acted in good faith and in a manner reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to our best interests and, with respect to criminal actions, in which he had no reasonable cause to believe that his conduct was unlawful. Similar provisions apply to actions brought by or in the right of the Registrant, except that no indemnification shall be made in such cases when the person shall have been adjudged to be liable for negligence or misconduct to the Registrant unless deemed otherwise by the court. Indemnifications are to be made by a majority vote of a quorum of disinterested directors or the written opinion of independent counsel or by the shareholders or by the court.

Article VII of the Registrant's Amended and Restated Code of Regulations includes the following provisions related to indemnification of its directors, officers, employees and agents.

ARTICLE VII INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

Section 1. Right to Indemnification. Each person who was or is made a party or is threatened to be made a party to or is otherwise involved (including, without limitation, as a witness) in any actual or threatened action, claim, suit investigation or proceeding, of any nature whatsoever (hereinafter "proceeding"), by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, board member, committee member, partner, trustee, officer or employee of any foreign or domestic organization or any separate investment account, or any individual who serves in any capacity with respect to any employee benefit plan, or that, being or having been such a director, board member, committee member, partner, trustee, officer or employee of any foreign or domestic organization or any separate investment account or any individual who serves in any capacity with respect to any employee benefit plan, he or she is or was serving at the request of an executive officer of the Corporation as a director, board member, committee member, partner, trustee, officer, employee or agent of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust, limited liability company or other enterprise, including service with respect to an employee benefit plan (hereinafter an "indemnitee"), whenever the basis of such proceeding is alleged action in an official capacity as such shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Corporation to the fullest extent permitted by law, as the same exists or may hereinafter be amended (but, in the case of any such amendment, only to the extent that such amendment permits the Corporation to provide broader indemnification rights than permitted prior thereto), or by other applicable law as then in effect, against all costs and reasonable counsel fees, fines, penalties, judgments or awards of any kind, and the amount of reasonable settlements, whether or not payable to the Corporation or to any of the other entities described above actually incurred or suffered by such indemnitee in connection therewith and such indemnification shall continue as to an indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, board member, committee member, partner, trustee, officer or employee of any foreign or domestic organization or any separate investment account or any individual who serves in any capacity with respect to any employee benefit plan and shall inure to the benefit of the indemnitee's heirs, executors, legal representatives and administrators. To the extent any of the indemnification provisions set forth above prove to be ineffective for any reason in furnishing the indemnification provided, each of the persons named above shall be indemnified by the Corporation to the fullest extent not prohibited by applicable law.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, no indemnification shall be provided with respect to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. any matter as to which the person shall have been adjudicated in any proceeding not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that his or her action was in the best interests of the Corporation or, to the extent that such matter relates to service with respect to any employee benefit plan, in the best interests of the participants or beneficiaries of such employee benefit plan;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. any liability to any entity which is registered as an investment company under the Federal Investment Company Act of 1940 or to the security holders thereof, where the basis for such liability is willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of the office; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. any action, claim or proceeding voluntarily initiated by any person seeking indemnification, unless such action, claim or proceeding had been authorized by the Board or unless such person's indemnification is awarded by vote of the Board.

In any matter disposed of by settlement or in the event of an adjudication which in the opinion of the General Counsel or his or her delegate does not make a sufficient determination of conduct which could preclude or permit indemnification in accordance with the preceding paragraphs, the person shall be entitled to indemnification unless, as determined by the majority of the disinterested directors or in the opinion of counsel (who may be an officer of the Corporation or outside counsel employed by the Corporation), such person's conduct was such as precludes indemnification under any such paragraph. The termination of any action, claim, suit, investigation or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he or she reasonably believed to be in the best interests of the Corporation.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.1 Advancements. The Corporation may at its option indemnify for expenses incurred in connection with any action or proceeding in advance of its final disposition, upon receipt of a satisfactory undertaking for repayment if it be subsequently determined that the person thus indemnified is not entitled to indemnification under this Article VII.

Section 2. Procedures for the Submission of Claims. The Board may establish reasonable procedures for the submission of claims for indemnification pursuant to this ARTICLE VII, determination of the entitlement of any person thereto, and review of any such determination.

Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company ("MassMutual"), the Registrant's parent company, maintains, at its expense, Directors and Officers Liability and Company Reimbursement Liability Insurance. The Directors and Officers Liability portion of such policy covers all directors and officers of MassMutual and of the companies which are, directly or indirectly, more than 50% owned by MassMutual, which includes the Registrant. The policy provides for payment on behalf of the directors and officers, up to the policy limits and after expenditure of a specified deductible, of all Loss (as defined) from claims made against them during the policy period for defined wrongful acts, and neglect or breach of duty by directors and officers in the discharge of their individual or collective duties as such. The insurance includes the cost of investigations and defenses, appeals, and settlements and judgments, but not fines or penalties imposed by law. The insurance does not cover any claims arising out of acts alleged to have been committed prior to December 31, 1996, or in the case of companies directly or indirectly 50% owned by MassMutual, which includes the Registrant, such later date as MassMutual or its predecessors may be deemed to control the company. The prior acts effective date for the Registrant is May 28, 2021. The policy contains various exclusions and reporting requirements.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **<u>Item 15.</u>** | **<u>Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities</u>**  |

---

Not applicable

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **<u>Item 16.</u>** | **<u>Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules</u>**  |

---

**(a)** **Exhibits** 

(1) [Principal Underwriting Agreement between Great American Life Insurance Company and Great American Advisors, Inc. effective as of February 2, 2018 is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 4 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on April 24, 2018. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204618000023/galicposam42017-ex1.htm)

(2) Plan of acquisition, reorganization, arrangement, liquidation or succession—Not applicable.

(3) Governing Documents

[(a)Amended](d473116dex24a.htm) [and Restated Articles of Incorporation are filed herewith.](d473116dex24a.htm)

[(b)Amended](d473116dex24b.htm) [and Restated Code of Regulations are filed herewith.](d473116dex24b.htm)

(4)(a) Contracts

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [Index Frontier <sup>®</sup> 7 Individual Deferred Annuity Contract (Form No. P11822317NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on November 21, 2017. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204617000075/galicposam32017-ex4a1.htm)

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) [Endorsement-Limitations on Transfer or Assignment (Form No. E1824618NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 4 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on April 24, 2018. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204618000023/galicposam42017-ex4a2.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) [Index Frontier <sup>®</sup> 5 Individual Deferred Annuity Contract (Form No. P1182217NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 4 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on April 24, 2018. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204618000023/galicposam42017-ex4a3.htm)

(4)(b) Tax Endorsements

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [Inherited Contract Endorsement (Form No. E1091612NW) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4b1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) [Individual Retirement Annuity Endorsement (Form No. E6004010NW) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4b2.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) [Roth Individual Retirement Annuity Endorsement (Form No. E6004108NW) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4b3.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) [Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees Individual Retirement Annuity Endorsement (Form No. E6004202NW) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4b4.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) [Individual Retirement Annuity Endorsement for Inherited IRA (Form No. E6014420NW) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4b5.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) [Governmental Section 457 Plan Endorsement (Form No. E6004505NW) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4b6.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) [Tax Sheltered Annuity Endorsement (Form No. E6004308NW)) (Employer Plan TSA/TSA 403(B)/Roth 403(B)) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4b7.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) [Qualified Pension, Profit Sharing and Annuity Plan Endorsement (Form No. E6004405NW) (401(A), Pension or Profit Sharing) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4b8.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) [Employer Plan Endorsement (EPLAN Rev. 2/98)-1 (For use with E6004308NW Employer Plan TSA/Roth 403(B), E6004405NW 401(A), Pension or Profit Sharing and E6004505NW Section 457 (Traditional & Roth) Governmental Plan) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4b9.htm)

(4)(c) Strategy Endorsements

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [Declared Rate Strategy-Crediting Strategy Endorsement-Interest Subject to a Guaranteed Minimum Interest Rate (Form No. E1822417NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on November 21, 2017. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204617000075/galicposam32017-ex4c1.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) [S&P 500 Conserve Indexed Strategy-Crediting Strategy Endorsement-Index Gain Subject to a Maximum Gain for the Term-No Index Loss (Maximum Loss 0%)-Bailout Feature (Form No. E1822517NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on November 21, 2017. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204617000075/galicposam32017-ex4c2.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) [S&P 500 Growth Indexed Strategy-Crediting Strategy Endorsement-Index Gain Subject to a Maximum Gain for the Term-Index Loss Subject to a Maximum Loss of 10% Each Term-Bailout Feature (Form No. E1822617NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on November 21, 2017. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204617000075/galicposam32017-ex4c3.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) [SPDR Gold Shares Conserve Indexed Strategy-Crediting Strategy Endorsement-Index Gain Subject to a Maximum Gain for the Term-No Index Loss (Maximum Loss 0%)-Bailout Feature (Form No. E1822717NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on November 21, 2017. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204617000075/galicposam32017ex4c4.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(5) [SPDR Gold Shares Growth Indexed Strategy-Crediting Strategy Endorsement-Index Gain Subject to a Maximum Gain for the Term-Index Loss Subject to a Maximum Loss of 10% Each Term-Bailout Feature (Form No. E1822817NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on November 21, 2017. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204617000075/galicposam32017ex4c5.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(6) [iShares U.S. Real Estate Conserve Indexed Strategy-Crediting Strategy Endorsement-Index Gain Subject to a Maximum Gain for the Term-No Index Loss (Maximum Loss 0%)-Bailout Feature (Form No. E1822917NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on November 21, 2017. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204617000075/galicposam32017ex4c6.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(7) [iShares U.S. Real Estate Growth Indexed Strategy-Crediting Strategy Endorsement-Index Gain Subject to a Maximum Gain for the Term-Index Loss Subject to a Maximum Loss of 10% Each Term-Bailout Feature (Form No. E1823017NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on November 21, 2017. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204617000075/galicposam32017ex4c7.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(8) [iShares U.S. MSCI EAFE Conserve Indexed Strategy-Crediting Strategy Endorsement-Index Gain Subject to a Maximum Gain for the Term-No Index Loss (Maximum Loss 0%)-Bailout Feature (Form No. E1829620NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on January 16, 2020. 1933 Act File No. 333-229687.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000119312520009109/d874525dex4c8.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(9) [iShares U.S. MSCI EAFE Growth Indexed Strategy-Crediting Strategy Endorsement-Index Gain Subject to a Maximum Gain for the Term-Index Loss Subject to a Maximum Loss of 10% Each Term-Bailout Feature (Form No. E1829720NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on January 16, 2020. 1933 Act File No. 333-229687.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000119312520009109/d874525dex4c9.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(10) [S&P 500 Buffer Indexed Strategy-Crediting Strategy Endorsement-Index Gain Subject to a Maximum Gain for the Term-Index Loss Subject by Buffer Each Term-Bailout Feature (Form No. E1829820NW) is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on January 16, 2020. 1933 Act File No. 333-229687.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000119312520009109/d874525dex4c10.htm)

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(4)(d) Waiver Riders

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(1) [Terminal Illness Waiver Rider (Form No. R1462416NW) is incorporated by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on February 16, 2016. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204616000071/galicprea1s1-ex4j.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(2) [Extended Care Waiver Rider (Form No. R1462316NW) is incorporated by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on February 16, 2016. 1933 Act File No. 333-207914.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000104204616000071/galicprea1s1-ex4k.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(3) [California Terminal Illness Waiver Rider (Form No. R1462416CA) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4d3.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(4) [California Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges for Facility Care Rider (Form No. R1462316CA) is filed herewith.](d473116dex4d4.htm)

(5) Opinion re Legality will be filed by subsequent amendment.

(8) Opinion re Tax Matters—Not applicable.

(9) Voting Trust Agreement—Not applicable.

(10) Material Contracts

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) [Administrative Services Agreement between MassMutual Life Insurance Company, Great American Life Insurance Company, Annuity Investors Life Insurance Company, and Manhattan National Life Insurance Company effective May 28, 2021 is incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on January 6, 2022. 1933 Act File No. 333-262034.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000119312522003552/d247596dex10a.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) [Amendment No. 1 to Administrative Services Agreement between MassMutual Life Insurance Company, Great American Life Insurance Company, Annuity Investors Life Insurance Company, and Manhattan National Life Insurance Company effective August 5, 2021 is incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on January 6, 2022. 1933 Act File No. 333-262034.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000119312522003552/d247596dex10b.htm)

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) [Leased Employee Agreement among Glidepath Holdings Inc., Great American Life Insurance Company, Annuity Investors Life Insurance Company, and Manhattan National Life Insurance Company effective May 28, 2021 is incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on behalf of Great American Life Insurance Company on January 6, 2022. 1933 Act File No. 333-262034.](http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/723258/000119312522003552/d247596dex10c.htm)

(11) Statement re Computation of Per Share Earnings—Not applicable.

(12) Statements re Computation of Ratios—Not applicable.

(15) Letter re Unaudited Interim Financial Information—Not applicable.

(16) Letter re Change in Certifying Accountant will be filed by subsequent amendment.

(21) Subsidiaries of the Registrant—Information about the subsidiaries of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance
Company will be filed by subsequent amendment.

(23) (a) Consent of legal counsel will be filed by subsequent
amendment.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) Consent of independent registered public accounting firm will be filed by subsequent amendment.

(24) (a) [Power of Attorney – Dominic L. Blue is filed herewith](d473116dex24a.htm)

(b) [Power of Attorney – Susan M. Cicco is filed herewith](d473116dex24b.htm)

(c) [Power of Attorney – Geoffrey J. Craddock is filed herewith](d473116dex24c.htm)

(d) [Power of Attorney – Roger W. Crandall is filed herewith](d473116dex24d.htm)

(e) [Power of Attorney – Michael R. Fanning is filed herewith](d473116dex24e.htm)

(f) [Power of Attorney – Paul A. LaPiana is filed herewith](d473116dex24f.htm)

(g) [Power of Attorney – Sears Merritt is filed herewith.](d473116dex24g.htm)

(h) [Power of Attorney – Mark F. Muething is filed herewith](d473116dex24h.htm)

(i) [Power of Attorney – Michael J. O'Connor is filed herewith](d473116dex24i.htm)

(j) [Power of Attorney – Eric W. Partlan is filed herewith](d473116dex24j.htm)

(k) [Power of Attorney – Arthur W. Wallace is filed herewith](d473116dex24k.htm)

(l) [Power of Attorney – Elizabeth A. Ward is filed herewith](d473116dex24l.htm)

(25) Statement of Eligibility of Trustee—Not applicable.

(26) Invitation for Competitive Bids—Not applicable.

(99) Additional Exhibits – None

(101) Interactive Data File – Not applicable.

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**(b)** **Financial Statements** will be filed by subsequent amendment.

**(c)** **[Calculation of Filing Fee Tables](d473116dexfilingfees.htm)** [is filed herewith.](d473116dexfilingfees.htm)

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **<u>Item</u><u> </u><u>17.</u>** | **<u>Undertakings</u>**  |

---

The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:

**(1)** To file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this
registration statement:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**(i)** To include any prospectus required by section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**(ii)** To reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the registration
statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or
decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of
prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) (§ 230.424(b) of this chapter) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than 20% change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the
"Calculation of Registration Fee" table in the effective registration statement.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**(iii)** To include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in
the registration statement or any material change to such information in the registration statement;

**(2)** That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

**(3)** To remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.

**(4)** That, for the purpose of determining liability under the Securities Act of 1933 to any purchaser, each prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) as part of a registration statement relating to an offering, other than registration statements relying on Rule 430B or other than prospectuses filed in reliance on Rule 430A (§ 230.430A of this chapter), shall be deemed to be part of and included in the registration statement as of the date it is first used after effectiveness. *Provided, however,* that no statement made in a registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement or made in a document incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference into the registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement will, as to a purchaser with a time of contract of sale prior to such first use, supersede or modify any statement that was made in the registration statement or prospectus that was part of the registration statement or made in any such document immediately prior to such date of first use.

**(5)** That, for the purpose of determining liability of the registrant under the Securities Act of 1933 to any purchaser in the initial distribution of the securities: The undersigned registrant undertakes that in a primary offering of securities of the undersigned registrant pursuant to this registration statement, regardless of the underwriting method used to sell the securities to the purchaser, if the securities are offered or sold to such purchaser by means of any of the following communications, the undersigned registrant will be a seller to the purchaser and will be considered to offer or sell such securities to such purchaser:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**(i)** Any preliminary prospectus or prospectus of the undersigned registrant relating to the offering required
to be filed pursuant to Rule 424 (§ 230.424 of this chapter);

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**(ii)** Any free writing prospectus relating to the offering prepared by or on behalf of the undersigned
registrant or used or referred to by the undersigned registrant;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**(iii)** The portion of any other free writing prospectus relating to the offering containing material
information about the undersigned registrant or its securities provided by or on behalf of the undersigned registrant; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;**(iv)** Any other communication that is an offer in the offering made by the undersigned registrant to the
purchaser.

**(6)** Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

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**INDEX TO EXHIBITS** 

**MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY** 

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| Number | Exhibit Description |
| 3(a) | [Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation](d473116dex3a.htm) |
| 3(b) | [Amended and Restated Code of Regulations](d473116dex3b.htm) |
| 4(b)(1) | [Inherited Contract Endorsement (Form No. E1091612NW)](d473116dex4b1.htm) |
| 4(b)(2) | [Individual Retirement Annuity Endorsement – (Form No. E6004010NW)](d473116dex4b2.htm) |
| 4(b)(3) | [Roth Individual Retirement Annuity Endorsement (Form No. E6004108NW)](d473116dex4b3.htm) |
| 4(b)(4) | [SIMPLE IRA Endorsement (Form No. E6004202NW)](d473116dex4b4.htm) |
| 4(b)(5) | [Individual Retirement Annuity Endorsement for Inherited IRA (Form No. E6014420NW)](d473116dex4b5.htm) |
| 4(b)(6) | [Governmental Section 457 Plan Endorsement (Form No. E6004505NW)](d473116dex4b6.htm) |
| 4(b)(7) | [Tax Sheltered Annuity Endorsement (Form No. E6004308NW)](d473116dex4b7.htm) |
| 4(b)(8) | [Qualified Pension, Profit Sharing and Annuity Plan Endorsement (Form No. E6004405NW)](d473116dex4b8.htm) |
| 4(b)(9) | [Employer Plan Endorsement (Form No. EPLAN98NW)](d473116dex4b9.htm) |
| 4(d)(3) | [California Terminal Illness Waiver Rider (Form No. R1462416CA)](d473116dex4d3.htm) |
| 4(d)(4) | [California Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges for Facility Care Rider (Form No. R1462316CA)](d473116dex4d4.htm) |
| 24(a) | [Power of Attorney – Dominic L. Blue](d473116dex24a.htm) |
| 24(b) | [Power of Attorney – Susan M. Cicco](d473116dex24b.htm) |
| 24(c) | [Power of Attorney – Geoffrey J. Craddock](d473116dex24c.htm) |
| 24(d) | [Power of Attorney – Roger W. Crandall](d473116dex24d.htm) |
| 24(e) | [Power of Attorney – Michael R. Fanning](d473116dex24e.htm) |
| 24(f) | [Power of Attorney – Paul A. LaPiana](d473116dex24f.htm) |
| 24(g) | [Power of Attorney – Sears Merritt](d473116dex24g.htm) |
| 24(h) | [Power of Attorney – Mark F. Muething](d473116dex24h.htm) |
| 24(i) | [Power of Attorney – Michael J. O'Connor](d473116dex24i.htm) |
| 24(j) | [Power of Attorney – Eric W. Partlan](d473116dex24j.htm) |
| 24(k) | [Power of Attorney – Arthur W. Wallace](d473116dex24k.htm) |
| 24(l) | [Power of Attorney – Elizabeth A. Ward](d473116dex24l.htm) |
| 107 | [Calculation of Filing Fee Tables](d473116dexfilingfees.htm) |

---

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##### [**Table of Contents**](#toc)
**<u>SIGNATURES</u>**

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement on Form S-1 for the Individual Index-linked Modified Single Premium Deferred Annuity Contracts to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of Cincinnati, State of Ohio, on March 22, 2023.

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| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
|  | **MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company** | **MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company** |
| March 22, 2023 | By: | /s/ Brian P. Sponaugle |
|  |  | Brian P. Sponaugle |
|  |  | Senior Vice President and Treasurer |

---

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement on Form S-1 for the Individual Index-linked Modified Single Premium Deferred Annuity Contracts has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

---

| | | |
|:---|:---|:---|
| Signature | Capacity | Date |
| /s/ Dominic L. Blue\*<br> Dominic L. Blue\* | Director | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Susan M. Cicco\*<br> Susan M. Cicco\* | Director | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Geoffrey J. Craddock\*<br> Geoffrey J. Craddock\* | Director | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Roger W. Crandall\*<br> Roger W. Crandall\* | Director | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Michael R. Fanning\*<br> Michael R. Fanning\* | Director<br>Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Paul A. LaPiana\*<br> Paul A. LaPiana\* | Director | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Sears Merritt\*<br> Sears Merritt\* | Director | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Mark F. Muething\*<br> Mark F. Muething\* | President<br> Director | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Michael J. O'Connor\*<br> Michael J. O'Connor\* | Director | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Eric W. Partlan\*<br> Eric W. Partlan\* | Director | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Brian P. Sponaugle<br> Brian P. Sponaugle | Principal Accounting Officer | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Arthur W. Wallace\*<br> Arthur W. Wallace\* | Director | March 22, 2023 |
| /s/ Elizabeth A. Ward\*<br> Elizabeth A. Ward\* | Chief Financial Officer (principal financial officer)<br> Director | March 22, 2023 |
| \*By:<br> /s/ John P. Gruber<br> John P. Gruber | As Attorney-in-Fact pursuant to powers of attorney filed herewith |  |

---

Date: March 22, 2023

## Ex-3.(A)

**Exhibit 3(a)** 

**AMENDED AND RESTATED** 

**ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION** 

**OF** 

**MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY** 

FIRST. The name of the company shall be MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company (the "Company").

SECOND: The place in the State of Ohio where the Company's principal office is located is the city of Cincinnati in Hamilton County, Ohio.

THIRD. The purposes for which the Company is organized shall be:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) To make insurance upon the lives of individuals, and to transact every type of insurance allowed by Section 3911.01 of the Ohio Revised Code;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) To invest and reinvest its capital, surplus and accumulations in such investments as may now or in the future be permitted by law as investments of legal reserve life insurance companies; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) To do all things necessary and proper to carry out the above purposes and to possess and have the right to exercise all powers and rights now or hereafter conferred by law upon domestic legal reserve life insurance companies under the laws of the State of Ohio.

FOURTH. All corporate powers of the Company shall be exercised by the Board of Directors and the Officers selected by the Board of Directors.

FIFTH. The number of Directors shall not be less than five nor more than twenty-one with the number of directors to be elected at any meeting of shareholders to be fixed by the shareholders at said meeting.

SIXTH. This corporation shall have Officers as may from time to time be fixed by the Board of Directors. All Officers shall hold office for a term of one year unless sooner removed by the Board of Directors.

SEVENTH. Vacancies among Directors shall be filled either by a majority vote of the remaining Directors or by a majority of shareholders entitled to vote, and the succeeding Director shall fill the unexpired term of the Director he is replacing. Vacancies among Officers shall be filled by the President. The succeeding Officer shall serve until the next annual meeting.

EIGHTH. The total number of shares which the Company shall be authorized to have outstanding shall be 1,200,000. All of these shares shall be Common Stock with a par value of $7.50 per share. Stated capital shall be $1,507,500.00

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NINTH. No holder of any shares of the Company shall have any preemptive rights to subscribe for or to purchase any shares of the Company of any class, whether such shares or such class be now or hereafter authorized, or to purchase or subscribe for any security convertible into, or exchangeable for, shares of any class or to which shall be attached or appertained any warrants or rights entitling the holder thereof to purchase or subscribe for shares of any class.

TENTH. The Company, through its Board of Directors, shall have the right and power to purchase any of its outstanding shares at such price and upon such terms as maybe agreed upon between the Company and any selling shareholder.

ELEVENTH. The affirmative vote of shareholder entitled to exercise a majority of the voting power shall be required to amend these Articles of Incorporation, approve mergers and to take any other action which by law must be approved by a specified percentage of all outstanding shares entitled to vote.

TWELFTH. The provisions of Section 1701.831 of the Ohio Revised Code or any successor provisions relating to control share acquisitions shall not be applicable to the Company.

THIRTEENTH. These Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation take the place of and supersede the existing Articles of Incorporation of the Company as heretofore amended and/or restated.

## Ex-3.(B)

**Exhibit 3(b)** 

**CODE OF REGULATIONS** 

**OF** 

**MASSMUTUAL ASCEND LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY** 

(As Amended and Restated on January 12, 2022)

ARTICLE I

<u>SHAREHOLDERS' MEETINGS</u> 

Section 1. <u>Annual Meetings</u>. The annual meeting of the shareholders of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company (the "**Corporation**"), for the election of the Board of Directors (the "**Board**") and the transaction of such other business as may properly be brought before such meeting, shall be held at the time, date and place designated by the Board or, if it shall so determine, by the Chairman of the Board or the President. If the annual meeting is not held or if directors are not elected thereat, a special meeting may be called and held for that purpose.

Section 2. <u>Special Meeting</u><u>s</u>. A special meeting of the shareholders may be called at any time by the Board on the same notice as is required for the annual meeting; provided, however, that notice of a special meeting shall specify the business to be considered thereat, and no other business shall be taken up or considered at special meetings unless the owners of a majority of the entire capital stock are present and unanimously consent thereto.

Section 3. <u>Quorum</u>. The shareholders attending in person or by proxy shall constitute a quorum at any meeting of shareholders, except in cases otherwise provided for by law; but less than a quorum may adjourn any meeting, from time to time, and the meeting may be held, as adjourned without further notice.

Section 4. <u>Notice</u>. Notice of the time and place, if any, and purposes of any meeting of shareholders and the manner of holding the meeting if it is to be conducted through communications equipment authorized by the Ohio General Corporation Law (the "**OGC Law**"), shall be given to each shareholder entitled thereto not less than seven (7) days nor more than sixty (60) days before the date fixed for the meeting and as prescribed by law. Such notice shall be given either by personal delivery or mail to the shareholders at their respective addresses as they appear upon the records of the Corporation or by any other method authorized by the OGC Law. Notice shall be deemed to have been given on the day sent. If any meeting is adjourned to another time or place, no notice as to such adjourned meeting need be given other than by announcement at the meeting at which such an adjournment is taken. No business shall be transacted at any such adjourned meeting except as might have been lawfully transacted at the meeting at which such adjournment was taken.

Section 5. <u>Notice to Joint Owners</u>. All notices with respect to any stock to which persons are entitled by joint or common ownership may be given to the person who is named first upon the books of this Corporation, and notice so given shall be sufficient notice to all the holders of such stock.

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Section 6. <u>Waiver</u>. Notice of any meeting may be waived in writing by any shareholder either before or after any meeting, by attendance at such meeting in person or by proxy, or through communications equipment authorized by the OGC Law without protest to its commencement.

Section 7. <u>Shareholders Entitled to Notice and to Vote</u>. The Board is authorized from time to time, to fix a day, not more than forty (40) days prior to the day of holding any meeting of shareholders, as the day as of which shareholders entitled to notice of and to vote at such meeting shall be determined; and only shareholders of record on such day shall be entitled to notice or to vote at such meeting. If a record date shall not be fixed, the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of shareholders shall be the close of business on the twentieth (20<sup>th</sup>) day prior to the date of the meeting and only shareholders of record at such record date shall be entitled to notice of and to vote at such meeting.

Section 8. <u>Action by Shareholders Without a Meeting</u>. Any action which may be taken at a meeting of shareholders may be taken without a meeting if authorized by a writing or writings signed by all of the shareholders who would be entitled to notice of a meeting for such purpose or by any other method authorized by the OGC Law. The records of such action shall be entered upon the records of the Corporation.

ARTICLE II

<u>BOARD OF DIRECTORS</u> 

Section 1. <u>Number of Directors and Powers</u>. The number of directors shall not be less than five (5) nor more than twenty-one (21). Except as reserved by law or by this Code of Regulations (the "**Regulations**"), the Board shall have and may exercise all the powers of the Corporation. The Board shall make such rules and regulations as it shall deem necessary or convenient for the regulation and management of the affairs of the Corporation.

Section 2. <u>Place of Meeting</u>. Any meeting of directors may be held at such place within or without the State of Ohio or by communications equipment authorized by the OGC Law as may be designated in the notice of said meeting.

Section 3. <u>Organization Meeting</u>. As promptly as practicable after each annual meeting a Secretary shall notify the directors-elect of their election, and shall notify all directors of the time at which they are required to meet for the purpose of organizing the new Board and of electing and appointing officers and committees for the succeeding year. Such meeting shall be appointed to be held on the day of the election, or as soon thereafter as practicable.

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Section 4. <u>Regular Meetings</u>. Regular meetings of the Board shall be held at such stated times and places as the Board may determine by resolution, from time to time. No notice of any such meeting need be given. In case the day appointed for a regular meeting should fall upon a legal holiday, such meeting shall be held on the following business day, at the regularly appointed hour.

Section 5. <u>Special Meeting</u>. The Secretary shall call special meetings of the Board , at any time, upon order of the Chairman of the Board or the President, or of any two directors. Notice of the time and place, if any, of any special meeting of the Board and the manner of holding the meeting if it is to be conducted through communications equipment authorized by the OGC Law, shall be given to each director by personal delivery, telephone, facsimile transmission, mail or by communications equipment authorized by the OGC Law, at least twenty-four (24) hours before the meeting. Such notice need not specify the purpose of the meeting. Notwithstanding the foregoing, special meetings may be held at any time, without formal notice, if all directors are present, or if those not present shall have waived notice thereof.

Section 6. <u>Quorum</u>. Not less than one-third (1/3) of the number of directors in office, but in any event not less than three (3), shall be sufficient to constitute a quorum at any meeting of the Board, except in cases otherwise provided for by law; but less than a quorum may adjourn any meeting, from time to time, and the meeting may be held as adjourned, without further notice.

Section 8. <u>Board Action Without a Meeting</u>. Any action which may be taken at a meeting of directors or any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting if authorized by a writing or writings signed by all of the members of the Board or all of the members of a particular committee or by any other method authorized by the OGC Law. The records of such action shall be entered upon the records of the Corporation.

Section 9. <u>Exclusion of Liability.</u> No director shall be personally liable to the Corporation for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director, notwithstanding any provision of law imposing such liability; provided, however, that such director shall remain personally liable for damages incurred by the Corporation resulting from (a) any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the Corporation, (b) acts or omissions not in good faith or which involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law by the director, (c) acts or omissions not taken in a manner not reasonably believed to be in, or at least not opposed to, the best interest of the Corporation, (d) acts or omissions not taken with the care that a reasonably prudent person would use under similar circumstances, (e) any transaction from which the director derives an improper personal benefit, or (f) acts or omissions of the director which occurred prior to the effective date of this provision.

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ARTICLE III

<u>COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD</u> 

The Board shall have an Executive and a Finance Committee and shall create such other committees of the Board as it may deem necessary or convenient for the conduct of the business of the Corporation. The Board shall appoint the members of any such committee of the Board from its number on an annual basis, and a majority of the members of any committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of the business thereof unless otherwise specified in these Regulations. The Board may delegate to any such committee or committees some or all of the powers of the directors except those which by law or by these Regulations it is prohibited from delegating. Except as the Board may otherwise determine, any such committee may make rules for the conduct of its business.

ARTICLE IV

<u>EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE</u> 

Section 1. <u>Appointment, Term and Vacancies</u>. At the organization meeting of the Board each year, the Board may appoint from their own number an Executive Committee; or if no appointment is made at such meeting, the Board may, at a regular or special meeting, appoint from their own number an Executive Committee. The Executive Committee shall consist of not less than three (3) nor more than five (5) directors, and the members thereof shall serve for one (1) year and until their successors shall have been appointed. In case any vacancy shall occur in the membership of the Executive Committee, the Board shall have power to fill such vacancy for the remainder of the term, by resolution adopted by a majority of the entire Board.

Section 2. <u>Quorum</u>. Any two of the members of the Executive Committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of the business thereof.

Section 3. <u>Rules and Reports</u>. The Executive Committee may make rules for holding and conducting its meetings and keeping the records thereof, and shall regularly report its actions to the Board.

Section 4. <u>Powers and Duties</u>. The Executive Committee shall have, and may exercise during intervals between meetings of the Board all the authority of the Board <u>except</u> as to each of the following matters:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) the submission to shareholders of any action as to which shareholders' authorization is required by statute;

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) the filling of vacancies in the Board or in any committee of the Board;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) the amendment or repeal of the Regulations, or the adoption of new code of regulations; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) the amendment or repeal of any resolution of the Board which by its terms shall not be so amendable or repealable.

ARTICLE V

<u>FINANCE COMMITTEE</u> 

Section 1. <u>Appointment, Term and Vacancies</u>. At the organizational meeting of the Board, in each year, the Board, by resolution, adopted by a majority of the entire Board, may appoint from their own number a Finance Committee. The Finance Committee shall consist of not less than three (3) nor more than five (5) directors, and the members thereof shall serve for one (1) year and until their successor shall have been appointed. In case any vacancy shall occur in the membership of the Finance Committee, the Board shall have power to fill such vacancy for the remainder of the term, by resolution adopted by a majority of the entire Board.

Section 2. <u>Quorum</u>. A majority of the members of the Finance Committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of the business thereof.

Section 3. <u>Rules and Reports</u>. The Finance Committee may make rules for holding and conducting its meetings and keeping the records thereof, and shall regularly report its actions to the Board.

Section 4. <u>Powers and Duties</u>. The Finance Committee does have and shall continue to have the following powers and duties:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(a) to direct and control the financial affairs of the Corporation on a daily basis and shall exercise all authority of the full Board with respect to all such financial

affairs;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(b) to authorize and effectuate all investment transactions on behalf of the Corporation, including but not limited to the purchase, sale or exchange of stocks, bonds, notes, equipment trust certificates, mortgages or any other securities or assets of the

Corporation;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(c) to designate banks or trust companies as custodians for stocks, bonds, notes or other securities belonging to the Corporation; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(d) to authorize and designate the proper individuals to prepare and execute on behalf of the Corporation all documents necessary to carry out such transactions and take any and all actions as may be necessary or desirable to fully implement the foregoing powers.

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ARTICLE VI

<u>OFFICERS: POWERS AND DUTIES</u> 

Section 1. <u>Officers</u>. The officers of the Corporation shall consist of a Chairman of the Board, a Vice Chairman of the Board, a Chief Executive Officer, a President (each of whom shall be a director), one or more Vice Presidents, a Secretary, a Treasurer, and such Assistant Vice Presidents, Assistant Secretaries, Assistant Treasurers or other officers as, from time to time, may appear to the Board necessary or desirable for the conduct of the affairs of the Corporation. The office of Chairman of the Board and President or any two other offices, other than those of President and Secretary, may be held by the same person.

Section 2. <u>Powers and Duties</u>. Each officer elected by the Board shall have such powers and duties as may be assigned from time to time by the Board or by the Chief Executive Officer at the direction of the Board.

Section 3. <u>Appointment, Term and Removal</u>. So far as practicable, all officers, except those whose appointment is herein otherwise provided for, shall be elected or appointed by the Board at its organization meeting in each year, and (unless sooner disqualified) shall serve until the next annual meeting of the Corporation next following their election or appointment, as the case may be, and until their successors shall be elected or appointed. Any such officer may, however, be removed for cause, at any time, by a majority vote of the whole number of directors.

Section 4. <u>Subordinates, Officers and Agents</u>. The Board in its discretion, may, from time to time, appoint such subordinate officers, employees and agents as it may deem advisable, and may remove or suspend the same at pleasure; or it may delegate to the Chairman of the Board, the Vice Chairman of the Board or the President authority to make such appointments. The Chief Executive Officer shall have the power to designate an officer or employee to perform the duties of any officer who is unable to perform such duties for any reason.

Section 5. <u>Chairman, Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and the President</u>. The Chairman of the Board shall be a member of the Executive Committee of the Board and shall preside and make reports when present at all meetings of the shareholders, the Board, and the Executive Committee, unless otherwise provided by law.

In the absence of the Chairman of the Board, the Vice Chairman of the Board shall preside and make reports at all meetings of the shareholders and the Board, unless otherwise provided by law.

The Chief Executive Officer shall have general and active direction and control of the affairs of the Corporation. He or she shall be a member of the Executive Committee of the Board and in the absence of the Chairman of the Board, he or she shall have and exercise the authority vested in the Chairman of the Board, and in the absence of the Chairman of the Board and the Vice Chairman of the Board, shall preside and make reports at all meetings of the shareholders the Board, and the Executive Committee, unless otherwise provided by law.

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The President may be a member of the Executive Committee of the Board. He or she shall have authority to sign stock certificates.

The Chairman of the Board, the Vice Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer and the President shall each have general power and authority to sign and execute in the name and on behalf of the Corporation any and all bonds, undertakings, recognizances, contracts of indemnity, insurance policies, renewals of insurance policies, deeds, conveyances, leases, releases, satisfaction pieces and other instruments or writings; to affix the corporate seal, to countersign checks, drafts and bills of exchange, subject to the provisions of the Contract Signing and Disbursement Authority Policy approved by the Board, as may be amended from time to time, and any other provisions of these Regulations.

Section 6. <u>Vice Presidents and Assistant Vice Presidents</u>. Each Vice President and Assistant Vice President shall have power to sign and execute, in the name and on behalf of the Corporation, any and all bonds, undertakings, recognizances, contracts of indemnity, insurance policies and renewals of policies, deeds, conveyances, leases, releases, satisfaction pieces and other instruments or writings, to sign stock certificates, and to countersign checks, drafts and bills of exchange, subject to the provisions of the Contract Signing and Disbursement Authority Policy approved by the Board, as may be amended from time to time, and any other provisions of these Regulations.

Section 7. <u>Secretary and Assistant Secretaries</u>. The Secretary and Assistant Secretaries shall have power and authority to affix the corporate seal and attest any and all instruments or writings to which the corporate seal may be affixed. The Secretary shall exercise the powers and perform the duties usually appertaining to the secretary of a corporation; <u>provided</u>, that the President may assign to the Secretary or Assistant Secretaries particular duties to be performed by them and shall, from time to time, assign to the Secretary the duty of giving notices of meetings of the shareholders, of the Board and of the Executive Committee and of keepings minutes of the proceedings thereat.

The Assistant Secretaries shall, in the absence or disability of the Secretary, perform the duties of such officers and shall generally assist such officers.

Section 8. <u>Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer</u>. The Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer shall have the care and custody of cash, cash equivalent and securities of the Corporation, and shall deposit or cause to be deposited all funds of the Corporation in and with financial institutions as the Treasurer, Board or a committee thereof shall, from time to time, direct. The Treasurer shall have the authority to sign stock certificates, to endorse for deposit or collection, or other-wise, all checks, drafts, notes, bills of exchange, or other commercial paper on the secondary market

------

payable to the Corporation. The Treasurer's office shall keep in its custody full and accurate accounts information, receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the Corporation. The Treasurer shall generally have all the powers and perform all the duties usually appertaining to the office of Treasurer of the Corporation. In the absence or disability of the Treasurer, an Assistant Treasurer shall perform his or her duties.

Section 9. <u>Accounting</u>. The President shall also, from time to time, designate one of the officers whose duties (in addition to any others which may be assigned to him or her), shall be, to keep the accounts and books of the Corporation in proper order and ready for inspection at any time when requested by the Board or the Executive Committee; to prepare for submission to the Board, semi-annually, a full and complete statement of all assets and liabilities of the Corporation, and to prepare and file, when due, any and all tax returns or other statements or certificates required by law. In his or her absence or disability, such other officer as the President may designate shall perform the duties assigned by him or her.

Section 10. <u>Additional Powers and Duties</u>. In addition to the foregoing especially enumerated powers and duties, the several officers of the Corporation shall have such other powers and duties as are provided for them in these Regulations or as may, from time to time, be prescribed by the Board or the Executive Committee, the Chief Executive Officer or the President.

Section 11. <u>Apparent Authority</u>. Any act done by any officer of the Corporation within the apparent scope of his or her authority shall be binding upon the Corporation and no person dealing with the Corporation shall be bound to inquire with respect to the actual extent of such authority.

ARTICLE VII

<u>INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS</u> 

Section 1. <u>Right to Indemnification</u>. Each person who was or is made a party or is threatened to be made a party to or is otherwise involved (including, without limitation, as a witness) in any actual or threatened action, claim, suit investigation or proceeding, of any nature whatsoever (hereinafter "**proceeding**"), by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director, board member, committee member, partner, trustee, officer or employee of any foreign or domestic organization or any separate investment account, or any individual who serves in any capacity with respect to any employee benefit plan, or that, being or having been such a director, board member, committee member, partner, trustee, officer or employee of any foreign or domestic organization or any separate investment account or any individual who serves in any capacity with respect to any employee benefit plan, he or she is or was serving at the request of an executive officer of the Corporation as a director, board member, committee member, partner, trustee, officer, employee or agent of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust, limited liability company or other enterprise, including service with respect to an employee benefit plan (hereinafter an "**indemnitee**"), whenever the basis of such proceeding is alleged action in an official capacity as such shall be indemnified and held harmless by the Corporation to the fullest extent permitted by

------

law, as the same exists or may hereinafter be amended (but, in the case of any such amendment, only to the extent that such amendment permits the Corporation to provide broader indemnification rights than permitted prior thereto), or by other applicable law as then in effect, against all costs and reasonable counsel fees, fines, penalties, judgments or awards of any kind, and the amount of reasonable settlements, whether or not payable to the Corporation or to any of the other entities described above actually incurred or suffered by such indemnitee in connection therewith and such indemnification shall continue as to an indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, board member, committee member, partner, trustee, officer or employee of any foreign or domestic organization or any separate investment account or any individual who serves in any capacity with respect to any employee benefit plan and shall inure to the benefit of the indemnitee's heirs, executors, legal representatives and administrators. To the extent any of the indemnification provisions set forth above prove to be ineffective for any reason in furnishing the indemnification provided, each of the persons named above shall be indemnified by the Corporation to the fullest extent not prohibited by applicable law.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, no indemnification shall be provided with respect to:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. any matter as to which the person shall have been adjudicated in any proceeding not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that his or her action was in the best interests of the Corporation or, to the extent that such matter relates to service with respect to any employee benefit plan, in the best interests of the participants or beneficiaries of such employee benefit plan;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. any liability to any entity which is registered as an investment company under the Federal Investment Company Act of 1940 or to the security holders thereof, where the basis for such liability is willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of the office; and

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. any action, claim or proceeding voluntarily initiated by any person seeking indemnification, unless such action, claim or proceeding had been authorized by the Board or unless such person's indemnification is awarded by vote of the Board.

In any matter disposed of by settlement or in the event of an adjudication which in the opinion of the General Counsel or his or her delegate does not make a sufficient determination of conduct which could preclude or permit indemnification in accordance with the preceding paragraphs, the person shall be entitled to indemnification unless, as determined by the majority of the disinterested directors or in the opinion of counsel (who may be an officer of the Corporation or outside counsel employed by the Corporation), such person's conduct was such as precludes indemnification under any such paragraph. The termination of any action, claim, suit, investigation or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he or she reasonably believed to be in the best interests of the Corporation.

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&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.1 <u>Advancements</u>. The Corporation may at its option indemnify for expenses incurred in connection with any action or proceeding in advance of its final disposition, upon receipt of a satisfactory undertaking for repayment if it be subsequently determined that the person thus indemnified is not entitled to indemnification under this Article VII.

Section 2. <u>Procedures for the Submission of Claims</u>. The Board may establish reasonable procedures for the submission of claims for indemnification pursuant to this ARTICLE VII, determination of the entitlement of any person thereto, and review of any such determination.

ARTICLE VIII

<u>EXECUTION OF INSURANCE POLICIES AND OTHER DOCUMENTS</u> 

All policies of insurance shall be signed by the Chairman of the Board, the Vice Chairman of the Board, the President or a Vice President or Assistant Vice President and countersigned by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary, and shall be binding and obligatory upon the Corporation in the same manner as if executed under the seal of the Corporation.

The Board may authorize the placing of signatures on policies, checks, receipts or other instruments by machine or other device for the imprinting or writing of signatures. All instruments bearing authorized signatures may be continued in use for a period of six months from the date of termination, for any reason, of the term of office of any officer whose facsimile signature appears thereon, and all such instruments shall have the same force and effect as though such officer were still in office.

ARTICLE IX

<u>STOCK AND STOCK CERTIFICATES</u> 

Section 1. <u>Stock Certificates</u>. The stock of the Corporation shall be represented by certificates, in form prescribed by law, which shall be signed by the President or a Vice President or an Assistant Vice President and the Secretary, or an Assistant Secretary, and shall be sealed with the seal of the Corporation.

Section 2. <u>Transfer of Shares</u>. Shares of stock may be transferred by delivery of the certificates therefor, accompanied either by an assignment in writing on the reverse of the certificates, or by written power of attorney to sell, assign and transfer the same, signed by the record holder thereof; but no transfer shall affect the right of the Corporation to pay any dividends upon the stock to the holder of record thereof, or to treat the holder of record as the holder in fact thereof for all purposes, and no transfer shall be valid, except between the parties thereto, until such transfer shall have been made upon the books of the Corporation.

------

ARTICLE X

<u>AMENDMENTS</u> 

These Regulations may be amended by the affirmative vote, written consent, or such other method authorized by the OGC Law, of shareholders entitled to exercise a majority of the voting power on such proposal. If an amendment is adopted by written consent the Secretary shall transmit by mail or any other means of communication authorized by the OGC Law a copy of such amendment to each shareholder who would be entitled to vote thereon and did not participate in the adoption thereof. These Regulations may also be amended by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors to the extent permitted by the OGC Law at the time of such amendment.

ARTICLE XI

<u>MISCELLANEOUS</u> 

Section 1. <u>Conflict With Applicable Law Or Articles Of Incorporation</u>. Unless the context requires otherwise, the general provisions, rules of construction, and the definitions of the Ohio Revised Code shall govern the construction of these Regulations. These Regulations are adopted subject to any applicable law and the Articles of Incorporation. Whenever these Regulations may conflict with any applicable law or the Articles of Incorporation, such conflict shall be resolved in favor of such law or the Articles of Incorporation.

Section 2. <u>Invalid Provisions</u>. If any one or more provisions of these Regulations, or the applicability of any provision to a specific situation, shall be held invalid or unenforceable, then such provision shall be modified to the minimum extent necessary to make it (and its application) valid and enforceable, and the validity and enforceability of the remaining provisions of these Regulations and all other applications of any provision shall not be affected thereby.

## Ex-4.(B)(1)

**Exhibit 4(b)1** 

**[ ![LOGO](g473116g0316062238103.jpg) ]** 

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5420, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5420]

**INHERITED CONTRACT ENDORSEMENT** 

The annuity contract is changed as set out below for use as an inherited contract.

**Inherited Contract** 

This annuity contract is intended to be an inherited annuity contract. It is established for the purpose of receiving funds from a deferred annuity contract that was owned by an individual who is now deceased (the "Decedent"). The Decedent is identified with the name of the Owner of this annuity contract.

**Decedent Information** 

We may require you to provide Due Proof of Death for the Decedent. We may require you to provide such other information about the Decedent and the prior annuity contract as needed to administer this annuity contract.

**Purchase Payments Limited** 

Any purchase payment for this annuity contract must be received as part of a tax-free exchange under IRC Section 1035. It must be funds from an annuity contract that was owned by the Decedent. It must be funds for which the Owner is the designated beneficiary under the terms of that contract. The Decedent must have died before the annuity starting date of that contract. The annuity starting date is the first day of the first period for which an annuity payment would have been made under that contract.

No other purchase payments may be made to this contract.

**Required Distributions** 

The entire interest in this annuity contract will be paid at least as rapidly as required by IRC Section 72(s) and the related regulations either:

1) over your life or over a period certain not exceeding your life expectancy, with payments at least annually starting within one (1) year of the Decedent's date of death or such later date as may be permitted by such regulations; or

2) in full within five (5) years of the Decedent's date of death.

This is part of your annuity contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes the annuity contract only as and to the extent stated. In all cases of conflict with the other terms of the annuity contract, the provisions of this Endorsement shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

------

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316081405412.jpg) ] | [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316081101250.jpg) ] |
| **[MARK F. MUETHING]** | **[JOHN P. GRUBER]** |
| **[PRESIDENT]** | **[SECRETARY]** |

---

## Ex-4.(B)(2)

**Exhibit 4(B)2** 

**[ ![LOGO](g473116g0316062238103.jpg) ]** 

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5420, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5420]

**INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ANNUITY ENDORSEMENT** 

The annuity contract (the "Contract") is changed by this Individual Retirement Annuity Endorsement (this "Endorsement") to add the following additional provisions:

**Applicable Tax Law Restrictions** 

The Contract is intended to receive contributions that qualify for deferred tax treatment under Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 408(b). It is restricted as required by federal tax law. We may change the terms of the Contract or administer it at any time as needed to comply with that law. Any such change may be applied retroactively to the extent permitted by law.

**Exclusive Benefit** 

The Contract is established for the exclusive benefit of you and your beneficiaries. Your interest in the Contract is nonforfeitable.

**Nonparticipating** 

The Contract does not pay dividends or share in our surplus.

**No Assignment or Transfer** 

You cannot assign, sell, or transfer your interest in the Contract. You cannot pledge it to secure a loan or the performance of an obligation, or for any other purpose. The only exceptions to these rules are:

1) all or part of your interest in the Contract may be transferred to your spouse or former spouse (as defined by federal law) under a divorce or separation instrument described in IRC Section 71(b)(2)(A); and

2) payments from the Contract may be based on joint lives or joint life expectancies of you and another person, but such other person shall have no present rights under the Contract during your lifetime.

------

**Contributions** 

The Contract does not require fixed contributions or other premiums or purchase payments, but we may decline to accept any premium or purchase payment of less than $50. The Contract will not lapse if you do not make premiums or purchase payments. We may terminate the Contract pursuant to any involuntary surrender or termination provision of the Contract only if premiums or purchase payments have not been made for at least two full Contract years and the value of the Contract (increased by any guaranteed interest) would provide a benefit on the Annuity Commencement Date, maturity date, or annuity date of less than $20 a month under the standard form of payment.

All contributions to us must be made in cash BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER MADE PAYABLE TO US.

Total contributions made to the Contract with respect to any single tax year may not exceed the annual contribution limit, excluding any payment that is:

1) allowed as a rollover contribution under IRC Section 402(c), 402(e)(6), 403(a)(4), 403(b)(8), 403(b)(10), 408(d)(3), or 457(e)(16);

2) a contribution made in accordance with the terms of a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) described in IRC Section 408(k); or

3) an additional contribution specifically authorized by statute, such as repayments of qualified reservist distributions, repayments of certain plan distributions made on account of a federally declared disaster, certain amounts received in connection with the Exxon Valdez litigation, and contributions for taxable years beginning after 2006 and before 2010 by an individual who was a participant in a 401(k) plan of a certain employer in bankruptcy described in IRC Section 219(b)(5)(C). 

The annual contribution limit is $5,000 for any tax year beginning in 2008 and years thereafter. After 2008, the annual contribution limit will be adjusted by the Secretary of the Treasury for cost-of-living increases under IRC Section 219(b)(5)(C). Such adjustments will be in multiples of $500.

If you are age 50 or older, the annual contribution limit is increased by $1,000 for any tax year beginning in 2006 and years thereafter.

The Contract will not accept contributions made by an employer through a SIMPLE IRA plan under IRC Section 408(p). The Contract will not accept a transfer or rollover of any funds attributable to contributions made by an employer through a SIMPLE IRA plan until at least two years after the date you first participated in that employer's SIMPLE IRA plan.

The Contract will not accept a rollover contribution to an Inherited IRA for a nonspouse beneficiary under IRC Section 402(c)(11), 403(a)(4)(B), 403(b)(8)(B), or 457(e)(16)(B). The Contract will not accept a transfer from an Inherited IRA within the meaning of IRC Section 408(d)(3)(C).

------

**Annual Report** 

We will furnish annual calendar year reports concerning the status of the Contract and such information concerning required minimum distributions as is prescribed by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue.

**Required Minimum Distributions During Life** 

Distributions from the Contract shall be made in accordance with the requirements of IRC Section 408(b)(3) and the regulations thereunder. If distributions are not made in the form of an annuity on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration), then distribution of your entire interest in the Contract must satisfy the requirements of IRC Section 408(a)(6) and the regulations thereunder instead of the requirements set out herein.

The Required Beginning Date for distributions from the Contract is April 1 following the calendar year in which you reach age 70-1/2. No later than the Required Beginning Date, your entire interest in the Contract must begin to be distributed over (i) your life or the lives of you and your designated beneficiary, or (ii) a period certain not to exceed your life expectancy or the joint and last survivor expectancy of you and your designated beneficiary. Payments must be made in periodic payments at intervals of no longer than one (1) year, and must be either nonincreasing or they may increase only as provided in Q&A-1 and Q&A-4 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6 of the Income Tax Regulations. In addition, any distribution must satisfy the incidental benefit requirements specified in Q&A-2 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6 of the Income Tax Regulations.

The distribution periods described above cannot exceed the periods specified in Section 1.401(a)(9)-6 of the Income Tax Regulations. The first required payment can be made as late as the Required Beginning Date and must be the payment that is required for a single payment interval. The second payment need not be made until the end of the next payment interval.

Your entire interest in the Contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover, transfer, or recharacterization under Q&A-7 or Q&A-8 of Section 1.408-8 of the Income Tax Regulations, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under the Contract, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

**Required Minimum Distributions After Death** 

If you die after required distributions begin, the remaining portion of your interest in the Contract will continue to be distributed under the Contract option chosen.

If you die before required distributions begin, your entire interest in the Contract will be distributed as least as rapidly as follows:

1) If your designated beneficiary is not your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law), then your entire interest in the Contract must be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of the designated beneficiary, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of your death. The life expectancy of the designated beneficiary is determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the year of your death. Alternatively, if elected, your entire interest in the Contract must be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of your death. 

------

2) If your sole designated beneficiary is your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law), then your entire interest in the Contract must be distributed over your spouse's life expectancy, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of your death, or if later, by the end of the calendar year in which you would have reached age 70-1/2. Alternatively, if elected, your entire interest in the Contract must be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of your death. 

If your surviving spouse dies before required distributions begin to him or her, then the remaining interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of your spouse's designated beneficiary, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of your spouse's death. The life expectancy of your spouse's designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the death of your spouse. Alternatively, if elected, or if your surviving spouse dies and there is no designated beneficiary, then the remaining interest in the Contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of your surviving spouse's death.

If your surviving spouse dies after required distributions begin to him or her, then any remaining interest will continue to be distributed under the Contract option chosen.

3) If there is no designated beneficiary, then your entire interest in the Contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year containing the fifth anniversary of your death.

Life expectancy is determined using the Single Life Table in Q&A-1 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-9 of the Income Tax Regulations. If distributions are being made to your surviving spouse as your sole designated beneficiary, your spouse's remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table corresponding to such spouse's age on his or her birthday in the year. In all other cases, remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table in the year such individual's life expectancy is first determined, reduced by one (1) for each subsequent year.

Required distributions are considered to begin on your Required Beginning Date or, if applicable, on the date distributions are required to begin to your surviving spouse. However, if distributions under the Contract start prior to such date on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration) in a form meeting the requirements of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6 of the Income Tax Regulations, then required distributions are considered to begin on the annuity starting date.

Your entire interest in the Contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover, transfer, or recharacterization under Q&A-7 or Q&A-8 of Section 1.408-8 of the Income Tax Regulations, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under the Contract, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

For purposes of this provision, a designated beneficiary is an individual designated under the Contract to receive payments after your death (or the death of your surviving spouse) and who qualifies as a designated beneficiary under Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations.

------

If your sole designated beneficiary is your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law), then your spouse may elect to treat the Contract as his or her own IRA. This election will be deemed to have been made if he or she becomes Successor Owner of the Contract or fails to take required distributions from the Contract as a beneficiary. No contribution, rollover, or transfer to the Contract may be made after your death unless your spouse (as defined by federal tax law) becomes Successor Owner.

This Endorsement is part of the Contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes the Contract only as and to the extent stated. It supersedes all prior Individual Retirement Annuity endorsements. In all cases of conflict with the other terms of the Contract, the provisions of this Endorsement shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316081405412.jpg) ] | [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316061247385.jpg) ] |
| **[MARK F. MUETHING]** | **[JOHN P. GRUBER]** |
| **[PRESIDENT]** | **[SECRETARY]** |

---

## Ex-4.(B)(3)

**Exhibit 4(b)3** 

**[ ![LOGO](g473116g0316062238103.jpg) ]** 

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Fixed Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5420, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5420]

**ROTH** 

**INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ANNUITY** 

**ENDORSEMENT** 

The annuity contract ("Contract") is changed by this Roth Individual Retirement Annuity Endorsement (this "Endorsement") to add the following additional provisions:

**APPLICABLE TAX LAW RESTRICTIONS**. This Contract is intended to receive contributions that qualify for special tax treatment under Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 408A. It is restricted as required by federal tax law. We may change the terms of this Contract or administer this Contract at any time as needed to comply with that law. Any such change may be applied retroactively.

**EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT**. This Contract is established for the exclusive benefit of you and your beneficiaries. Your interest in this Contract is nonforfeitable.

**NON-PARTICIPATING**. This Contract does not pay dividends or share in our surplus.

**NO ASSIGNMENT OR TRANSFER**. You cannot assign, sell, or transfer your interest in this Contract. You cannot pledge it to secure a loan or the performance of an obligation, or for any other purpose. The only exceptions to these rules are:

1) All or part of your interest in this Contract may be transferred to a spouse or former spouse (as defined by federal tax law) under a divorce or separation instrument described in IRC Section 71(b)(2)(A); and

2) payments from this Contract may be based on the joint lives or joint life expectancies of you and another person, but such other person will have no present rights in this Contract during your lifetime.

**CONTRIBUTIONS**. This Contract does not require fixed premiums, purchase payments, or other contributions, but we may decline to accept any contribution of less than $50. This Contract will not lapse if you do not make contributions. This Contract will remain subject to cancellation under any involuntary surrender or termination provision of this Contract; provided, however, that in no event shall any such cancellation occur unless, at a minimum, contributions have not been made for at least two (2) full contract years and the value of this Contract (increased by any guaranteed interest) would provide a benefit at its stated maturity date of less than $20 a month under the regular settlement option.

All contributions to us must be made in cash BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER MADE PAYABLE TO US.

------

Total contributions made to this Contract with respect to any single tax year, excluding any payment that is allowed as a qualified rollover contribution, may not exceed the amount determined under the Regular Contribution Limit provision of this Endorsement. A qualified rollover contribution is a rollover contribution of a distribution from an IRA that is allowed under the Rollover Contribution Limit provision of this Endorsement and that meets the requirements of IRC Section 408(d)(3), except that the one-rollover-per-year rule of Section 408(d)(3)(B) does not apply if the rollover is from an IRA other than a Roth IRA. A qualified rollover contribution also includes a rollover from a designated Roth account described in IRC Section 402A. For taxable years beginning after 2007, a qualified rollover contribution also includes a rollover contribution from an eligible retirement plan described in IRC Section 402(c)(8)(B) that is allowed under the Rollover Contribution Limit provision of this Endorsement.

Subject to the Regular Contribution Limits provision of this Endorsement, a regular contribution to an IRA other than a Roth IRA may be recharacterized as a regular contribution to this Contract pursuant to the rules of Section 1.408A-5 of the Income Tax Regulations.

This Contract will not accept contributions made by an employer through a SIMPLE IRA plan under IRC Section 408(p). This Contract will not accept a transfer or rollover of any funds attributable to contributions made by an employer through a SIMPLE IRA plan until at least two (2) years after the date you first participated in that employer's SIMPLE IRA plan.

**REGULAR CONTRIBUTION LIMIT**. The regular contributions for any tax year may not exceed the least of:

1) the annual contribution limit (including any increase applicable if you are age 50 or older or any increase for a participant in an IRC Section 401(k) plan of a bankrupt employer), less any reduction that may apply based on your modified adjusted gross income;

2) the annual contribution limit (including any increase applicable if you are age 50 or older or any increase for a participant in an IRC Section 401(k) plan of a bankrupt employer), less any regular contributions for that same year that you make to an IRA other than a Roth IRA; or

3) your compensation for the year.

The annual contribution limit is:

1) $3,000 for any tax year beginning in 2002 through 2004; 

2) $4,000 for any tax year beginning in 2005 through 2007; and 

3) $5,000 for any tax year beginning in 2008 and years thereafter. 

After 2008, the $5,000 annual contribution limit will be adjusted by the Secretary of the Treasury for cost-of-living increases under IRC Section 219(b)(5)(D). Such adjustments will be in multiples of $500.

If you are age 50 or older, the annual contribution limit is increased by:

1) $500 for any tax year beginning in 2002 through 2005; and 

2) $1,000 for any tax year beginning in 2006 and years thereafter. 

If you were a participant in an IRC Section 401(k) plan of an employer in bankruptcy meeting certain requirements described in IRC Section 219(b)(5)(C), then the annual contribution limit is increased by $3,000 for taxable years beginning in 2007 through 2009. You may not use the increased contribution limit under this paragraph in a year that you also use the increased contribution limit for an individual who is age 50 or older.

------

The annual contribution limit (including any increase if you are age 50 or older or any increase for a participant in an IRC Section 401(k) plan of a bankrupt employer) is reduced ratably between certain levels of modified adjusted gross income as follows:

1) if you are single or a head of household, the annual contribution limit is reduced ratably for modified adjusted gross income between $95,000 and $110,000, and the annual contribution limit is zero (0) if your modified adjusted gross income is $110,000 or more; 

2) if you are married and file a joint return or you are a qualified widow(er), the annual contribution limit is reduced ratably for modified adjusted gross income between $150,000 and $160,000, and the annual contribution limit is zero (0) if your modified adjusted gross income is $160,000 or more; and 

3) if you are married and file a separate return, the annual contribution limit is reduced ratably for modified adjusted gross income between $0 and $10,000, and the annual contribution limit is zero (0) if your modified adjusted gross income is $10,000 or more. 

When subject to such ratable reductions, the annual contribution limit will be rounded up to the next multiple of $10, and shall not be reduced below $200 until the point at which it is reaches zero (0). After 2006, the dollar amounts above will be adjusted by the Secretary of the Treasury for cost-of-living increases under IRC Section 408A(c)(3). Such adjustments will be in multiples of $1,000. For purposes of calculating such a reduction, your modified adjusted gross income is defined in IRC Section 408A(c)(3)(C)(i) and does not include any amount included in adjusted gross income as a result of a rollover to a Roth IRA from an eligible retirement plan other than a Roth IRA, or as a result of a conversion of a non-Roth IRA to a Roth IRA.

For purposes of this provision, compensation is defined as wages, salaries, professional fees, or other amounts derived from or received for personal services actually rendered (including, but not limited to commissions paid salesmen, compensation for services on the basis of a percentage of profits, commissions on insurance premiums, tips, and bonuses) and includes earned income, as defined in IRC Section 401(c)(2) (reduced by the deduction the self-employed individual takes for contributions made to a self-employed retirement plan). For purposes of this definition, IRC Section 401(c)(2) shall be applied as if the term trade or business for purposes of Section 1402 included service described in subsection (c)(6). Compensation does not included amounts derived from or received as earnings or profits from property (including but not limited to interest and dividends) or amounts not includible in gross income. Compensation also does not include any amount received as a pension or annuity or as deferred compensation. The term "compensation" shall include any amount includible in the individual's gross income under IRC Section 71 with respect to a divorce or separation instrument described in Section 71(b)(2)(A). In the case of a married individual filing a joint return, the greater compensation of his or her spouse is treated as his or her own compensation, but only to the extent that such spouse's compensation is not being used for purposes of the spouse making a contribution to a Roth IRA or a deductible contribution to an IRA other than a Roth IRA.

Notwithstanding the dollar limits on contributions, you may make a repayment of a qualified reservist distribution described in IRC Section 72(t)(2)(G) during the two (2) year period beginning on the day after the end of the active duty period or by August 17, 2008, if later.

------

**ROLLOVER CONTRIBUTION LIMIT**. A rollover to this Contract from an eligible retirement plan other than a Roth IRA or designated Roth account cannot be made if, for the year the amount is distributed from the other plan:

1) you are married (as defined by federal tax law) and file a separate return; or

2) you are not married (as defined by federal tax law) and have modified adjusted gross income in excess of $100,000; or 

3) you are married (as defined by federal tax law) and together you and your spouse have modified adjusted gross income in excess of $100,000. 

For purposes of this provision, your modified adjusted gross income is defined in IRC Section 408A(c)(3)(C)(i) and does not include any amount included in adjusted gross income as a result of a rollover to a Roth IRA from an eligible retirement plan other than a Roth IRA, or as a result of a conversion of a non-Roth IRA to a Roth IRA. You are not treated as married for a taxable year if you have lived apart from your spouse at all times during the taxable year and file separate returns for the taxable year.

These limits do not apply to qualified rollover contributions from another Roth IRA. These limits do not apply to qualified rollover contributions for taxable years beginning after 2009.

**ANNUAL REPORT**. Following the end of each calendar year, we will send you a report concerning the status of your Contract. This report will include (i) the amount of all regular contributions received during or after the calendar year which relate to such calendar year; (ii) the amount of all rollover contributions received during such calendar year; (iii) the contract value(s) determined as of the end of such calendar year; (iv) such information concerning required minimum distributions as is prescribed by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue; and (v) such other information as may be required under federal tax law.

**REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS DURING LIFE**. No amount is required to be distributed during your lifetime.

**REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS AFTER DEATH**. All distributions made hereunder shall be made in accordance with the requirements of IRC Section 408(b)(3), as modified by Section 408A(c)(5), and the regulations thereunder. If distributions are not made in the form of an annuity on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration), then distribution of your entire interest in this Contract must satisfy the requirements of IRC Section 408(a)(6), as modified by Section 408A(c)(5), and the regulations thereunder instead of the requirements set out herein.

Upon your death, your entire interest in this Contract will be distributed as least as rapidly as follows:

1) If an individual other than your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law) is your designated beneficiary, then your entire interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of that individual, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of your death. The life expectancy of the designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the year of your death. Alternatively, if elected, your entire interest in this Contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of your death. 

2) If your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law) is your sole designated beneficiary, then your entire interest will be distributed over such spouse's life, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of your death, or if later, by the end of the calendar year in which you would have reached age 70-1/2. Alternatively, if elected, your entire interest in this Contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of your death. 

------

If your surviving spouse dies before required distributions begin to him or her, the remaining interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of the spouse's designated beneficiary, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of the spouse's death. The life expectancy of the spouse's designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the death of the spouse. Alternatively, if elected, the remaining interest in this Contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of the surviving spouse's death.

If your surviving spouse dies after required distributions begin to him or her, any remaining interest will continue to be distributed under the contract option chosen.

Required distributions are considered to begin on the date distributions are required to begin to your surviving spouse. However, if distributions under this Contract start prior to such date on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration) in a form meeting the requirements of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations, then required distributions are considered to begin on the annuity starting date.

3) If there is no designated beneficiary, then your entire interest in this Contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year containing the fifth anniversary of your death.

Life expectancy is determined using the Single Life Table in Q&A-1 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-9 of the Income Tax Regulations. If distributions are being made to your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law) as your designated beneficiary, your spouse's remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table corresponding to such spouse's age on his or her birthday in the year. In all other cases, remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table in the year such individual's life expectancy is first determined, reduced by one (1) for each subsequent year.

Your interest in this Contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover, transfer, or recharacterization under Q&A-7 or Q&A-8 of Section 1.408-8 of the Income Tax Regulations, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under the IRA, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

For purposes of this provision, a designated beneficiary is an individual designated under this Contract to receive payments after your death (or the death of your surviving spouse) and who qualifies as a designated beneficiary under Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations.

If your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law) is the sole designated beneficiary, he or she may elect to treat this Contract as his or her own Roth IRA. This election will be deemed to have been made if he or she becomes Successor Owner of this Contract or fails to take distributions from this Contract otherwise required by this provision. No contribution or rollover to this Contract may be made after your death unless your spouse (as defined by federal tax law) becomes Successor Owner.

------

This Endorsement is part of the Contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes the Contract only as and to the extent stated. It supersedes all prior Individual Retirement Annuity endorsements. In all cases of conflict with the other terms of the Contract, the provisions of this Endorsement shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316081405412.jpg) ] | [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316060037052.jpg) ] |
| **[MARK F. MUETHING]** | **[JOHN P. GRUBER]** |
| **[PRESIDENT]** | **[SECRETARY]** |

---

## Ex-4.(B)(4)

**Exhibit 4(b)4** 

**[ ![LOGO](g473116g0316062238103.jpg) ]** 

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5420, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5420]

**SAVINGS INCENTIVE MATCH PLAN FOR EMPLOYEES** 

**INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ANNUITY** 

**ENDORSEMENT** 

The annuity contract is changed as set out below to make it a SIMPLE Individual Retirement Annuity.

**APPLICABLE TAX LAW RESTRICTIONS.** This annuity contract is intended to receive contributions under a Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees of Small Employers ("SIMPLE IRA plan") that qualify for deferred tax treatment under Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 408(p). It is restricted as required by federal tax law. We may change the terms of this annuity contract or administer this annuity contract at any time as needed to comply with that law. Any such change may be applied retroactively.

**EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT.** This annuity contract is established for the exclusive benefit of you and your beneficiaries. Your interest in this annuity contract is nonforfeitable.

**NON-PARTICIPATING.** This annuity contract does not pay dividends or share in our surplus.

**NO ASSIGNMENT OR TRANSFER.** You cannot assign, sell, or transfer your interest in this annuity contract. You cannot pledge it to secure a loan or the performance of an obligation, or for any other purpose. The only exceptions to these rules are:

1) an interest in this annuity contract may be transferred to a spouse or former spouse under a divorce or separation instrument described in IRC Section 71(b)(2)(A); and

2) you may designate another person to receive payments with you based on joint lives or joint life expectancies, but any such designation shall not give that other person any present rights under the annuity contract during your lifetime.

**CONTRIBUTIONS.** This annuity contract does not require fixed premiums, purchase payments, or other contributions, but we may decline to accept any contribution of less than $50. This annuity contract will not lapse if contributions are not made for you. This annuity contract will remain subject to cancellation under any involuntary surrender or termination provision of this annuity contract; provided, however, that in no event shall any such cancellation occur unless, at a minimum, contributions have not been made for at least two (2) full contract years and the value of this annuity contract (increased by any guaranteed interest) would provide a benefit at age 70-1/2 of less than $20 a month under the regular settlement option.

------

All contributions to us must be made in cash BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER MADE PAYABLE TO US.

This annuity contract will only accept contributions made by an employer under a SIMPLE IRA plan that meets the requirements of IRC Section 408(p), and rollover contributions and transfers from another SIMPLE IRA owned by you. No other contributions to this annuity contract will be accepted.

**ANNUAL REPORT.** Following the end of each calendar year, we will send you a report concerning the status of your annuity contract. This report will include (i) the amount of all regular contributions received during or after the calendar year which relate to such calendar year; (ii) the amount of all rollover contributions received during such calendar year; (iii) the contract value(s) determined as of the end of such calendar year; (iv) such information concerning required minimum distributions as is prescribed by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue; and (v) such other information as may be required under federal tax law.

If contributions to this annuity contract are paid directly by your employer under a SIMPLE IRA plan, we will provide your employer with the summary description required by IRC Section 408(l)(2)(B).

**DESIGNATED FINANCIAL INSTITUTION.** If we are the designated financial institution for your employer's SIMPLE IRA plan, as defined in IRC Section 408(p)(7), then you may direct that contributions paid on your behalf be transferred without cost or penalty to another SIMPLE IRA owned by you or to an IRA or other eligible retirement plan described in IRC Section 402(c)(8)(B), provided that you elect such a transfer either before the beginning of the calendar year to which such contribution relates or within the 60-day election period which includes the date you first become eligible to participate in the SIMPLE IRA plan.

**LIMITS ON ROLLOVERS AND TRANSFERS; ADDITIONAL TAXES.** During the first two (2) years that you participate in the SIMPLE IRA plan of your employer, any rollover or transfer otherwise permitted under this annuity contract must be made to another SIMPLE IRA owned by you. In some cases, any distribution to you during this two (2)-year period may be subject to a twenty-five (25) percent additional penalty tax if you do not roll over the amount distributed into a SIMPLE IRA. After the end of this two (2)-year period, a rollover or transfer otherwise permitted under this annuity contract may be made to another SIMPLE IRA owned by you or to an IRA or other eligible retirement plan described in IRC Section 402(c)(8)(B).

**REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS DURING LIFE.** All distributions made hereunder shall be made in accordance with the requirements of IRC Section 408(b)(3) and the regulations thereunder. If distributions are not made in the form of an annuity on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration), then distribution of your entire interest in this annuity contract must satisfy the requirements of IRC Section 408(a)(6) and the regulations thereunder instead of the requirements set out herein.

The Required Beginning Date for distributions under this annuity contract is April 1 following the calendar year in which you reach age 70-1/2. No later than the Required Beginning Date, your entire interest in this annuity contract must begin to be distributed over (i) your life or the lives of you and your designated beneficiary, or (ii) a period certain not to exceed your life expectancy or the joint and last survivor expectancy of you and your designated beneficiary. Payments must be made in periodic payments at intervals of no longer than one year, and must be either nonincreasing or they may increase only as provided in Q&A-1 and Q&A-4 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations. In addition, any distribution must satisfy the incidental benefit requirements specified in Q&A-2 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations.

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The distribution period described above cannot exceed the period specified in Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations. The first required payment can be made as late as the Required Beginning Date and must be the payment that is required for a single payment interval. The second payment need not be made until the end of the next payment interval.

Your interest in this annuity contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover, transfer, or recharacterization under Q&A-7 or Q&A-8 of Section 1.408-8 of the Income Tax Regulations, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under the IRA, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

For purposes of this provision, your designated beneficiary is an individual designated under this annuity contract to receive payments after your death and who qualifies as a designated beneficiary under Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations.

**REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS AFTER DEATH.** If you die after required distributions begin, the remaining portion of your interest in this annuity contract will continue to be distributed under the contract option chosen.

If you die before required distributions begin, your entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed as least as rapidly as follows:

1) If an individual other than your surviving spouse is your designated beneficiary, then your entire interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of that individual, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of your death. The life expectancy of the designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the year of your death. Alternatively, if elected, your entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of your death. 

2) If your surviving spouse is your sole designated beneficiary, then your entire interest will be distributed over such spouse's life, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of your death, or if later, by the end of the calendar year in which you would have reached age 70-1/2. Alternatively, if elected, your entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of your death. 

If your surviving spouse dies before required distributions begin to him or her, the remaining interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of your spouse's designated beneficiary, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of your spouse's death. The life expectancy of your spouse's designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the death of your spouse. Alternatively, if elected, the remaining interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of your surviving spouse's death.

If your surviving spouse dies after required distributions begin to him or her, any remaining interest will continue to be distributed under the contract option chosen.

3) If there is no designated beneficiary, then your entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year containing the fifth anniversary of your death.

------

Life expectancy is determined using the Single Life Table in Q&A-1 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-9 of the Income Tax Regulations. If distributions are being made to your surviving spouse as your designated beneficiary, your spouse's remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table corresponding to such spouse's age on his or her birthday in the year. In all other cases, remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table in the year such individual's life expectancy is first determined, reduced by one (1) for each subsequent year.

Required distributions are considered to begin on your Required Beginning Date or, if applicable, on the date distributions are required to begin to a surviving spouse. However, if distributions under this annuity contract start prior to such date on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration) in a form meeting the requirements of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations, then required distributions are considered to begin on the annuity starting date.

Your interest in this annuity contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover, transfer, or recharacterization under Q&A-7 or Q&A-8 of Section 1.408-8 of the Income Tax Regulations, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under the IRA, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

For purposes of this provision, a designated beneficiary is an individual designated under this annuity contract to receive payments after your death (or the death of your surviving spouse) and who qualifies as a designated beneficiary under Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations.

If your surviving spouse is the sole designated beneficiary, he or she may elect to treat this annuity contract as his or her own IRA. This election will be deemed to have been made if he or she becomes Successor Owner of this contract or fails to take distributions from this contract otherwise required by this provision. No contribution or rollover to this annuity contract may be made after your death unless your spouse becomes Successor Owner.

This is part of your annuity contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes the annuity contract only as and to the extent stated. In all cases of conflict with the other terms of the annuity contract, the provisions of this Endorsement shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316081405412.jpg) ] | [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316081405780.jpg) ] |
| **[MARK F. MUETHING]** | **[JOHN P. GRUBER]** |
| **[PRESIDENT]** | **[SECRETARY]** |

---

## Ex-4.(B)(5)

**Exhibit 4(b)5**![LOGO](g473116g0316062238103.jpg)

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Fixed Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5420, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5420]

Variable Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5423]

**INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ANNUITY ENDORSEMENT** 

**FOR INHERITED IRA** 

The annuity contract is changed as set out below to make it an inherited Individual Retirement Annuity.

**Inherited IRA** 

This annuity contract is an inherited IRA under Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 408(d)(3)(C). It is maintained to hold qualified funds acquired by the Owner by reason of the death of an individual (the "Decedent") that is identified with the name of the Owner. The Owner is the designated beneficiary of the Decedent, as defined in Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations, for all funds held under this annuity contract. The Owner is not the surviving spouse of the Decedent.

**Applicable Tax Law Restrictions** 

This annuity contract is restricted as required by federal tax law. We may change the terms of this annuity contract or administer this annuity contract at any time as needed to comply with that law. Any such change may be applied retroactively.

**Decedent** 

We may require you to provide Due Proof of Death for the Decedent. We may require you to provide such other information about the Decedent as needed to administer this contract.

**Exclusive Benefit** 

This annuity contract is established for the exclusive benefit of you and your beneficiaries. Your interest in this annuity contract is nonforfeitable.

**Non-Participating** 

This annuity contract does not pay dividends or share in our surplus.

**No Assignment or Transfer** 

You cannot assign, sell, or transfer your interest in this annuity contract. You cannot pledge it to secure a loan or the performance of an obligation, or for any other purpose.

------

**Contributions** 

Contributions to this annuity contract must be made as a rollover made in accordance with IRC Section 402(c)(11), or as a trustee-to-trustee transfer from another Inherited IRA of the Decedent held for your benefit.

No amount may be contributed as rollover under IRC Section 402(c)(11) if it is a required minimum distribution under IRC Section 401(a)(9) for the year in which the contribution is made or for any prior year.

**Annual Report** 

Following the end of each calendar year, we will send you a report concerning the status of this annuity contract. This report will include (i) the amount of all contributions made as a rollover in accordance with IRC Section 402(c)(11) during such calendar year; (ii) the contract value(s) determined as of the end of such calendar year; (iii) such information concerning required minimum distributions as is prescribed by the Commissioner of Internal Revenue; and (iv) such other information as may be required under federal tax law.

**Required Minimum Distributions** 

The entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed as least as rapidly as required by IRC Section 401(a)(9)(B) (other than clause (iv)) and the related regulations. The rules for determining the required minimum distributions for the designated beneficiary under the eligible retirement plan also apply to this contract.

If the Decedent has died before his or her required beginning date as determined under IRC Section 401(a)(9)(C), then:

1) For all calendar years following the calendar year of the Decedent's death, distributions must be made over your remaining life expectancy starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of the Decedent's death. Your life expectancy will be determined using your age as of your birthday in the year following the year of the Decedent's death. 

2) Alternatively, no amount is required to be distributed until the fifth calendar year following the year of the Decedent's death. In that year, the entire interest in this annuity contract must be distributed. 

If the Decedent has died on or after his or her required beginning date as determined under IRC Section 401(a)(9)(C), then for all calendar years following the calendar year of the Decedent's death, distributions shall be made over the longer of:

1) your remaining life expectancy, determined using your age as of your birthday in the year following the year of the Decedent's death; or

2) the Decedent's remaining life expectancy, determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year of his or her death.

Life expectancy is determined in accordance with Q&A-5 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-5 of the Income Tax Regulations. It is determined using the Single Life Table in Q&A-1 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-9 of the Income Tax Regulations. The remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table in the first year for which the life expectancy is to be determined, reduced by one (1) for each subsequent year.

If paid in the form of an irrevocable annuity, payments must be made in periodic payments at intervals of no longer than one year, and must be either nonincreasing or they may increase only as provided in Q&A-1 and Q&A-4 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6 of the Income Tax Regulations.

The entire interest in this annuity contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover under IRC Section 402(c)(11) or transfer under Q&A-8 of Section 1.408-8 of the Income Tax Regulations, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under the IRA, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

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Notwithstanding the foregoing rules, no amount is required to be distributed until the tenth calendar year following the year of the Decedent's death, and the entire interest in this annuity contract must be distributed by the end of that tenth year, if:

1) the Decedent died on or after January 1, 2020;

2) the Decedent died before his or her required beginning date as determined under IRC Section 401(a)(9)(C); and

3) the annuity contract holds only funds from an individual retirement arrangement of the Decedent or defined contribution plan of the Decedent.

In any event, the entire interest in this annuity contract must be distributed by the end of the tenth year following the year of the Decedent's death if:

1) the Decedent died on or after January 1, 2020;

2) the annuity contract holds any funds from an individual retirement arrangement of the Decedent or defined contribution plan of the Decedent; and

3) the Owner is not a eligible designated beneficiary as determined under IRC Section 401(a)(9)(E)(ii).

The entire interest in this annuity contract must be distributed by the end of the tenth year following the year that the Owner reaches the age of majority if:

1) the Decedent died on or after January 1, 2020;

2) the annuity contract holds any funds from an individual retirement arrangement of the Decedent or defined contribution plan of the Decedent; and

3) the Owner is an a eligible designated beneficiary as a minor child of the Decedent as determined under IRC Section 401(a)(9)(E)(ii)(II).

The entire interest in this annuity contract must be distributed by the end of the tenth year following the year that the Decedent's designated beneficiary dies if:

1) the Decedent's designated beneficiary died on or after January 1, 2020;

2) the annuity contract holds any funds from an individual retirement arrangement of the Decedent or defined contribution plan of the Decedent.

This is part of your annuity contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes the annuity contract only as and to the extent stated. In all cases of conflict with the other terms of the annuity contract, the provisions of this Endorsement shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316062238216.jpg) ] | [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316062238447.jpg) ] |
| [Mark F. Muething] | [John P. Gruber] |
| [President] | [Secretary] |

---

## Ex-4.(B)(6)

**Exhibit 4(b)6** 

[ ![LOGO](g473116g0316062238103.jpg) ]

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5420, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5420]

**GOVERNMENTAL SECTION 457 PLAN** 

**ENDORSEMENT** 

The annuity contract is changed as set out below to add provisions for a governmental Section 457 plan. This endorsement and the annuity contract to which it is attached are not valid without additional endorsement(s) defining the Plan and Plan Administrator.

**APPLICABLE TAX LAW RESTRICTIONS.** This annuity contract is intended to receive contributions pursuant to an eligible deferred compensation plan as defined under Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 457(b) that is maintained by a state, a political subdivision of a state, or any agency or instrumentality of a state or political subdivision of a state. It is restricted as required by federal tax law. We may change the terms of this annuity contract or administer this annuity contract at any time as needed to comply with that law. Any such change may be applied retroactively.

**ANNUITANT.** "Annuitant" means the designated person covered under the Plan for whose benefit this annuity contract was purchased. If the owner of this annuity contract is the Employer or Plan trustee, then any reference in this annuity contract to the owner's life, age, death, or spouse shall be treated as a reference to the Annuitant's life, age, death, or spouse.

**EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT.** This annuity contract is established for the exclusive benefit of the Annuitant and his or her beneficiaries. No amounts held under this annuity contract may be used for or diverted to any purpose other than the provision of Plan benefits except as permitted by the Plan after the complete satisfaction of all liabilities to persons covered by the Plan and their beneficiaries. Until distributed, the Plan retains all legal ownership rights and controls over the Annuitant's interest in the annuity contract except as provided by the Plan Administrator.

**NO ASSIGNMENT OR TRANSFER.** No interest in this annuity contract may be assigned, sold, or transferred. No interest in this annuity contract may be pledged to secure a loan or the performance of an obligation, or for any other purpose. The only exceptions to these rules are:

1) if this annuity contract is owned by the Employer or Plan trustee, it may be transferred to a successor Employer or Plan trustee, or to the Annuitant or another person entitled to Plan benefits through the Annuitant; 

2) the Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract may secure a loan made to the Annuitant under any loan provisions of this annuity contract;

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3) all or part of the Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract may be transferred under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order as defined in IRC Section 414(p); and

4) payments may be made based on the joint lives or joint life expectancies of the Annuitant and another person, but such other person shall have no present rights under this annuity contract during the lifetime of the Annuitant.

Except as elected under the ***Direct Rollover*** provision, any distributions under this annuity contract shall be paid either to the Plan trustee or to the Annuitant or other person entitled to Plan benefits through the Annuitant, as may be directed by the Plan Administrator.

**LIMITS ON CONTRIBUTIONS.** Contributions to this annuity contract that represent contributions to the Plan must not exceed the limits set forth in IRC Section 457(b) and (c). Catch-up contributions may be made to the full extent permitted by IRC Section 414(v). No elective contributions may be made by the Annuitant with respect to any month unless the Annuitant has entered an agreement for deferral before the first day of that month. However, an elective contribution may be made for the first month of employment of the Annuitant if the agreement for deferral is made on or before the date that service with the Employer begins. Additional limits may apply under the terms of the Plan. The Plan Administrator shall ensure compliance with these IRC limits and any Plan limits.

**DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS.** As required under IRC Section 457(d), no distributions from this annuity contract can be made until:

1) the calendar year in which the Annuitant reaches age 70-1/2; or

2) the Annuitant has a severance from employment with the Employer; or

3) the Annuitant is faced with an unforeseeable emergency as defined under the IRC; or

4) the conditions are met for an in-service distribution under IRC Section 457(e)(9).

For this purpose, a direct transfer to a defined benefit governmental plan as defined in IRC Section 414(d), that is made to purchase permissive service credit as defined in IRC Section 415(n)(3)(A) or as a repayment described in IRC Section 415(k)(3), shall not be treated as a distribution.

Additional limits may apply under the terms of the Plan. The Plan Administrator shall determine when a distribution is allowed under this IRC section and the Plan.

**DIRECT ROLLOVERS.** To the extent required under IRC Section 401(a)(31), the Annuitant or his or her surviving spouse may elect to have any portion of an eligible rollover distribution, as defined in IRC Section 403(b)(8), paid directly to an Individual Retirement Annuity or Individual Retirement Account, as defined in IRC Section 408, or, if allowed, to another governmental Section 457 plan or other eligible retirement plan described in IRC Section 402(c)(8)(B), specified by the Annuitant or surviving spouse and which accepts such distribution. Any direct rollover election must be made on our form, and must be received at our office before the date of payment.

**REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS DURING LIFE.** All distributions made hereunder shall be made in accordance with the requirements of IRC Section 401(a)(9) and Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations. If distributions are not made in the form of an annuity on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration), then distribution of the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract must satisfy the requirements of IRC Section 401(a)(9) and Section 1.401(a)(9)-5 of the Income Tax Regulations instead of the requirements set out herein.

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The Required Beginning Date for distributions under this annuity contract is April 1 following the later of the calendar year in which the Annuitant reaches age 70-1/2 or the calendar year in which the Annuitant retires. No later than the Required Beginning Date, the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract must begin to be distributed over (i) the Annuitant's life or the lives of the Annuitant and his or her designated beneficiary, or (ii) a period certain not to exceed the Annuitant's life expectancy or the joint and last survivor expectancy of the Annuitant and his or her designated beneficiary. Payments must be made in periodic payments at intervals of no longer than one (1) year, and must be either nonincreasing or they may increase only as provided in Q&A-1 and Q&A-4 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations. In addition, any distribution must satisfy the incidental benefit requirements specified in Q&A-2 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations.

The distribution period described above cannot exceed the period specified in Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations. The first required payment can be made as late as the Required Beginning Date and must be the payment that is required for a single payment interval. The second payment need not be made until the end of the next payment interval.

The Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover or transfer, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under the annuity contract, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

For purposes of this provision, the Annuitant's designated beneficiary is an individual designated under the Plan to receive payments after the Annuitant's death and who qualifies as a designated beneficiary under Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations.

**REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS AFTER DEATH.** If the Annuitant dies after required distributions begin, the remaining portion of the Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract will continue to be distributed under the contract option chosen.

If the Annuitant dies before required distributions begin, the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed as least as rapidly as follows:

1) If an individual other than the Annuitant's surviving spouse is his or her designated beneficiary, then the Annuitant's entire interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of that individual, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of the Annuitant's death. The life expectancy of the designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the year of the Annuitant's death. Alternatively, if elected, the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of the Annuitant's death. 

2) If the Annuitant's surviving spouse is his or her sole designated beneficiary, then the Annuitant's entire interest will be distributed over such spouse's life, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of the Annuitant's death, or if later, by the end of the calendar year in which the Annuitant would have reached age 70-1/2. Alternatively, if elected, the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of the Annuitant's death. 

------

If the Annuitant's surviving spouse dies before required distributions begin to him or her, the remaining interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of the spouse's designated beneficiary, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of the spouse's death. The life expectancy of the spouse's designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the death of the Annuitant's spouse. Alternatively, if elected, the remaining interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of the surviving spouse's death.

If the Annuitant's surviving spouse dies after required distributions begin to him or her, any remaining interest will continue to be distributed under the contract option chosen.

3) If there is no designated beneficiary, then the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year containing the fifth anniversary of the Annuitant's death.

Life expectancy is determined using the Single Life Table in Q&A-1 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-9 of the Income Tax Regulations. If distributions are being made to the Annuitant's surviving spouse as the designated beneficiary, the spouse's remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table corresponding to such spouse's age on his or her birthday in the year. In all other cases, remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table in the year such individual's life expectancy is first determined, reduced by one (1) for each subsequent year.

Required distributions are considered to begin on the Required Beginning Date or, if applicable, on the date distributions are required to begin to a surviving spouse. However, if distributions under this annuity contract start prior to such date on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration) in a form meeting the requirements of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations, then required distributions are considered to begin on the annuity starting date.

The Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover or transfer, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under the annuity contract, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

For purposes of this provision, a designated beneficiary is an individual designated under this annuity contract to receive payments after the Annuitant's death (or the death of the Annuitant's surviving spouse) and who qualifies as a designated beneficiary under Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations.

This is part of the annuity contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes the annuity contract only as and to the extent stated. In all cases of conflict with the other terms of the annuity contract, the provisions of this Endorsement shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316081405412.jpg) ] | [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316061550370.jpg) ] |
| **[MARK F. MUETHING]** | **[JOHN P. GRUBER]** |
| **[PRESIDENT]** | **[SECRETARY]** |

---

## Ex-4.(B)(7)

**Exhibit 4(b)7** 

**[ ![LOGO](g473116g0316062238103.jpg) ]** 

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Fixed Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5420, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5420]

**TAX SHELTERED ANNUITY ENDORSEMENT** 

The annuity contract ("Contract") is changed by this Tax-Sheltered Annuity Endorsement (this "Endorsement") to add the following additional provisions:

**APPLICABLE TAX LAW RESTRICTIONS.** This Contract is intended to receive contributions that qualify for deferred tax treatment under Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 403(b). It is restricted as required by federal tax law. We may change the terms of this Contract or administer this Contract at any time as needed to comply with that law. Any such change may be applied retroactively.

**APPLICABLE PLAN RESTRICTIONS.** To the extent required to satisfy the Income Tax Regulations under IRC Section 403(b):

1) this Contract is subject to the terms of the 403(b) retirement plan under which contributions were made (the "Plan") that is sponsored or maintained by an eligible employer (the "Employer"); in the event of any conflict, the terms of the Plan control, provided that such terms do not require us to provide benefits not otherwise provided under this Contract; 

2) we will share with the Employer, a Plan administrator, or other vendor under the Plan, any information necessary for this Contract, or any other annuity contract or custodial account to which contributions have been made by the Employer, to satisfy IRC Section 403(b), including the following: (i) the Employer providing information as to whether your employment with the Employer is continuing, and notifying us when you have had a severance from employment (for purposes of the distribution restrictions under the Plan); (ii) our notifying the Employer of any hardship withdrawal under the Plan if the withdrawal results in a 6-month suspension of your right to make elective deferrals under the Plan; and (iii) our providing information to the Employer and other vendors concerning your interests in annuity contracts or qualified plan benefits (to enable a vendor to determine the amount of any plan loans and any rollover accounts that are available to you under the Plan in order to satisfy the financial need under the hardship withdrawal rules); and 

3) we will share with the Employer, a Plan administrator, or other vendor under the Plan, any information in order of this Contract or any other annuity contract or custodial account to which contributions have been made for you by the Employer, to satisfy other tax law requirements, including the following: (i) the amount of any plan loan that is outstanding to you for a vendor to determine whether an additional plan loan satisfies the loan limitations of the Plan, so that any such additional loan is not a deemed distribution under IRC Section 72(p)(1); and (ii) information concerning your after-tax employee contributions in order for a vendor to determine the extent to which a distribution is includible in gross income. 

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The Plan may require that no distribution, loan, contract exchange, plan-to-plan transfer, or rollover contribution involving this Contract be made without specific instructions from the Employer or a Plan administrator. We may rely on representations, instructions, and information provided by the Employer or a Plan administrator. We may rely on representations and information provided by other vendors under the Plan.

This provision does not apply if:

1) this Contract is funded solely with amounts transferred from another Section 403(b) annuity contract or from a custodial account described in IRC Section 403(b)(7); 

2) each transfer was qualified as a tax-free direct transfer described in Revenue Ruling 90-24; and

3) each transfer was made on or before September 24, 2007.

**NO ASSIGNMENT OR TRANSFER.** You cannot assign, sell, or transfer your interest in this Contract. You cannot pledge it to secure a loan or the performance of an obligation, or for any other purpose. The only exceptions to these rules are:

1) this Contract may secure a loan made to you under any loan provisions of this Contract;

2) all or part of your interest in this Contract may be transferred under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order as defined in IRC Section 414(p); and

3) payments from this Contract may be based on the joint lives or joint life expectancies of you and another person, but such other person shall have no present rights in this Contract during your lifetime.

**LIMIT ON SOURCE OF PURCHASE PAYMENTS.** Purchase Payments for this Contract are limited to:

1) contributions made by or through the Employer under the Plan;

2) rollover contributions described in IRC Sections 402(c), 402(e)(6), 403(a)(4), 403(b)(8), 403(b)(10), 408(d)(3), or 457(e)(16), to the extent permitted under the Plan;

3) annuity contract and custodial account exchanges described in Section 1.403(b)-10(b)(2) of the Income Tax Regulations; and

4) plan-to-plan transfers described in Section 1.403(b)-10(b)(3) of the Income Tax Regulations.

**DESIGNATED ROTH CONTRIBUTIONS.** To the extent permitted under the Plan, Purchase Payments may include:

1) contributions that are designated Roth contributions within the meaning of IRC Section 402A(c)(1);

2) rollover contributions that are described in IRC Section 402A(c)(3) from a designated Roth account under an applicable retirement plan described in IRC Section 402A(e)(1);

3) contract and custodial account exchanges from designated Roth accounts under the Plan; or

4) plan-to-plan transfers from designated Roth accounts under an applicable retirement plan described in IRC Section 402A(e)(1).

All amounts that are attributable to designated Roth contributions must be maintained in a separate account. Separate records will be kept for each such account.

------

**LIMITS ON AMOUNT OF CONTRIBUTIONS.** Except for catch-up contributions permitted by IRC Section 414(v):

1) contributions made to this Contract and any other plan, contract, or arrangement under salary reduction agreement(s) with an employer cannot exceed the limits of IRC Section 402(g), and we may distribute any contributions in excess of this limit, together with the income allocable thereto and net of any loss thereon, to you as permitted by law; and 

2) contributions to this Contract cannot exceed the limit of IRC Section 415.

These limits do not apply to rollover contributions.

**DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS FOR ELECTIVE DEFERRALS.** Amounts attributable to IRC Section 403(b) elective deferrals (including any designated Roth contributions) cannot be distributed from this Contract unless:

1) you have reached age 59-1/2;

2) you have had a severance from employment with the Employer;

3) you have died;

4) you have become disabled as defined in IRC Section 72(m)(7);

5) you have incurred a hardship by reason of an immediate and heavy financial need as defined in Section 1.401(k)-1(d)(3)(iii)(B) of the Income Tax Regulations, to the extent a distribution is necessary as determined under Section 1.401(k)-1(d)(3)(iv)(E) of the Income Tax Regulations ; or

6) you qualify for a distribution as a reservist called to active duty as described in IRC Section 72(t)(2)(G).

A withdrawal made by reason of a hardship cannot include any income attributable to salary reduction contributions. These distribution restrictions do not apply to 403(b) elective deferrals made before January 1, 1989, and to earnings credited prior to such date.

**DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS FOR CUSTODIAL ACCOUNT TRANSFERS.** Amounts attributable to transfers from a custodial account described in IRC Section 403(b)(7), other than amounts attributable to 403(b) elective deferrals, cannot be distributed from this Contract unless:

1) you have reached age 59-1/2;

2) you have had a severance from employment with the Employer;

3) you have died; or

4) you have become disabled as defined in IRC Section 72(m)(7).

**DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS FOR OTHER AMOUNTS.** Amounts other than those attributable to 403(b) elective deferrals or to transfers from a custodial account described in IRC Section 403(b)(7) cannot be distributed from this Contract unless:

1) you have had a severance from employment with the Employer; or

2) upon the occurrence of some event specified in the Plan, such as after a fixed number of years, the attainment of a stated age, or disability.

This provision does not apply to an annuity contract that is issued before January 1, 2009.

------

**ABSENCE OF SEPARATE ACCOUNTING.** If a separate account has not been maintained for 403(b) elective deferrals, custodial account transfers, rollovers, and other amounts, then no amount shall be distributed until the later of:

1) the date that amounts attributable to 403(b) elective deferrals may be distributed; or 

2) the date that amounts attributable to a custodial account transfer may be distributed, or the date that other amounts may be distributed, whichever is applicable. 

**DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS FOR EXCHANGES AND TRANSFERS.** Amounts attributable to transfers from another Section 403(b) annuity contract or from a custodial account described in IRC Section 403(b)(7) by means of a contract exchange or plan-to-plan transfer shall be subject to distribution restrictions that are at least as stringent as those imposed by the contract being exchanged or by the plan making the transfer.

**EXCEPTIONS TO DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS.** The distribution restrictions that otherwise apply to this Contract shall not apply to:

1) a correction of excess deferrals as provided in Section 1.403(b)-4(f) of the Income Tax Regulations; 

2) a distribution required by the Employer on termination of the Plan as provided in Section 1.403(b)-10(a) of the Income Tax Regulations; 

3) a permissible withdrawal of eligible automatic contributions as provided in IRC Section 414(w);

4) payments to an alternate payee under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order as provided in Section 1.403(b)-10(c) of the Income Tax Regulations; or 

5) amounts attributable to rollover contributions, provided that they are maintained in a separate account. 

**TRANSFERS AND EXCHANGES NOT CONSIDERED DISTRIBUTIONS.** For purposes of applying the distribution restrictions to this Contract, the following are not considered to be distributions:

1) direct transfers to a defined benefit governmental plan as defined in IRC Section 414(d), that are made to purchase permissive service credit as defined in IRC Section 415(n)(3)(A) or as a repayment described in IRC Section 415(k)(3);

2) contract or custodial account exchanges that are described in Section 1.403(b)-10(b)(2) of the Income Tax Regulations; or

3) plan-to-plan transfers that are described in Section 1.403(b)-10(b)(3) of the Income Tax Regulations.

**DIRECT ROLLOVERS PERMITTED.** To the extent required under IRC Section 401(a)(31), you or your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law) may elect to have any portion of an eligible rollover distribution, as defined in IRC Section 403(b)(8), paid directly to an Individual Retirement Annuity or Individual Retirement Account, as defined in IRC Section 408, or, if allowed, to another Tax Sheltered Annuity or other eligible retirement plan described in IRC Section 402(c)(8)(B), specified by you or your surviving spouse and which accepts such distribution. To the extent permitted under IRC Section 402(c)(11), your nonspouse beneficiary may elect to have any portion of a distribution paid directly to an inherited Individual Retirement Annuity or Individual Retirement Account, as defined in IRC Section 408(d)(3)(C). Any direct rollover election must be made on our form, and must be received at our office before the date of payment.

------

**REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS DURING LIFE.** All distributions made hereunder shall be made in accordance with the requirements of IRC Section 403(b)(10) and Section 1.401(a)(9)-6 of the Income Tax Regulations, as modified by Sections 1.408-8 and 1.403(b)-6(e) of the Income Tax Regulations. If distributions are not made in the form of an annuity on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration), then distribution of your entire interest in this Contract must satisfy the requirements of IRC Section 403(b)(10) and Section 1.401(a)(9)-5 of the Income Tax Regulations, as modified by Sections 1.408-8 and 1.403(b)-6(e) of the Income Tax Regulations, instead of the requirements set out herein.

The Required Beginning Date for distributions of your interest in this Contract is April 1 following the later of the calendar year in which you reach age 70-1/2 or the calendar year in which you retire from the Employer. No later than the Required Beginning Date, your entire interest in this Contract must begin to be distributed over (i) your life or the lives of you and your designated beneficiary, or (ii) a period certain not to exceed your life expectancy or the joint and last survivor expectancy of you and your designated beneficiary. Payments must be made in periodic payments at intervals of no longer than one year, and must be either nonincreasing or they may increase only as provided in Q&A-1 and Q&A-4 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6 of the Income Tax Regulations. In addition, any distribution must satisfy the incidental benefit requirements specified in Q&A-2 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6 of the Income Tax Regulations.

The distribution period described above cannot exceed the period specified in Section 1.401(a)(9)-T of the Income Tax Regulations. The first required payment can be made as late as the Required Beginning Date and must be the payment that is required for a single payment interval. The second payment need not be made until the end of the next payment interval.

Your interest in this Contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover or transfer, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under this Contract, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

For purposes of this provision, your designated beneficiary is an individual designated under this Contract to receive payments after your death and who qualifies as a designated beneficiary under Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations.

**REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS AFTER DEATH.** If you die after required distributions begin, the remaining portion of your interest in this Contract will continue to be distributed under the contract option chosen.

If you die before required distributions begin, your entire interest in this Contract will be distributed as least as rapidly as follows:

1) If an individual other than your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law) is your designated beneficiary, then your entire interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of that individual, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of your death. The life expectancy of the designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the year of your death. Alternatively, if elected, your entire interest in this Contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of your death. 

2) If your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law) is your sole designated beneficiary, then your entire interest will be distributed over such spouse's life, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of your death, or if later, by the end of the calendar year in which you would have reached age 70-1/2. Alternatively, if elected, your entire interest in this Contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of your death. 

------

If your surviving spouse dies before required distributions begin to him or her, the remaining interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of the spouse's designated beneficiary, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of the spouse's death. The life expectancy of the spouse's designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the death of the spouse. Alternatively, if elected, the remaining interest in this Contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of the surviving spouse's death.

If your surviving spouse dies after required distributions begin to him or her, any remaining interest will continue to be distributed under the contract option chosen.

3) If there is no designated beneficiary, then your entire interest in this Contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year containing the fifth anniversary of your death.

Life expectancy is determined using the Single Life Table in Q&A-1 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-9 of the Income Tax Regulations. If distributions are being made to your surviving spouse (as defined by federal tax law) as the designated beneficiary, the spouse's remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table corresponding to such spouse's age on his or her birthday in the year. In all other cases, remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table in the year such individual's life expectancy is first determined, reduced by one (1) for each subsequent year.

Required distributions are considered to begin on your Required Beginning Date or, if applicable, on the date distributions are required to begin to a surviving spouse. However, if distributions of your interest in this Contract start prior to such date on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration) in a form meeting the requirements of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6 of the Income Tax Regulations, then required distributions are considered to begin on the annuity starting date.

Your interest in this Contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover or transfer, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under this Contract, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

For purposes of this provision, a designated beneficiary is an individual designated under this Contract to receive payments after your death (or the death of a surviving spouse) and who qualifies as a designated beneficiary under Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations.

This Endorsement is part of the Contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes the Contract only as and to the extent stated. It supersedes all prior Tax-Sheltered Annuity endorsements. In all cases of conflict with the other terms of the Contract, the provisions of this Endorsement shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316081405412.jpg) ] | [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316060357068.jpg) ] |
| **[MARK F. MUETHING]** | **[JOHN P. GRUBER]** |
| **[PRESIDENT]** | **[SECRETARY]** |

---

## Ex-4.(B)(8)

**Exhibit 4(b)8** 

**[ ![LOGO](g473116g0316062238103.jpg) ]** 

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5420, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5420]

**QUALIFIED PENSION, PROFIT SHARING,** 

**AND ANNUITY PLAN ENDORSEMENT** 

The annuity contract is changed as set out below to add provisions for a qualified pension, profit sharing, or annuity plan. This endorsement and the annuity contract to which it is attached are not valid without additional endorsement(s) defining the Plan and Plan Administrator.

**APPLICABLE TAX LAW RESTRICTIONS**. This annuity contract is intended to receive contributions pursuant to a pension, profit sharing, or annuity plan qualified under Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 401(a) or 403(a). It is restricted as required by federal tax law. We may change the terms of this annuity contract or administer this annuity contract at any time as needed to comply with that law. Any such change may be applied retroactively.

**ANNUITANT**. "Annuitant" means the designated person covered under the Plan for whose benefit this annuity contract was purchased. If the owner of this annuity contract is the Employer or Plan trustee, then any reference in this annuity contract to the owner's life, age, death, or spouse shall be treated as a reference to the Annuitant's life, age, death, or spouse.

**EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT**. This annuity contract is established for the exclusive benefit of the Annuitant and his or her beneficiaries. No amounts held under this annuity contract may be used for or diverted to any purpose of then the provision of Plan benefits except as permitted by the Plan after the complete satisfaction of all liabilities to persons covered by the Plan and their beneficiaries. Until distributed, the Plan retains all legal ownership rights and controls over the Annuitant's interest in the annuity contract except as provided by the Plan Administrator.

**NO ASSIGNMENT OR TRANSFER**. No interest in this annuity contract may be assigned, sold, or transferred. No interest in this annuity contract may be pledged to secure a loan or the performance of an obligation, or for any other purpose. The only exceptions to these rules are:

1) if this annuity contract is owned by the Employer or Plan trustee, it may be transferred to a successor Employer or Plan trustee, or to the Annuitant or another person entitled to Plan benefits through the Annuitant; 

2) the Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract may secure a loan made to the Annuitant under any loan provisions of this annuity contract;

------

3) all or part of the Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract may be transferred under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order as defined in IRC Section 414(p); and

4) payments may be made based on the joint lives or joint life expectancies of the Annuitant and another person, but such other person shall have no present rights under this annuity contract during the lifetime of the Annuitant.

Except as elected under the ***Direct Rollover*** provision, any distributions under this annuity contract shall be paid either to the Plan trustee or to the Annuitant or other person entitled to Plan benefits through the Annuitant, as may be directed by the Plan Administrator.

**LIMITS ON CONTRIBUTIONS.** Contributions to this annuity contract that represent contributions to the Plan must not exceed the limits set forth in IRC Section 415. Contributions to this annuity contract that represent elective deferrals cannot exceed the limits of IRC Section 402(g). Catch-up contributions may be made to the full extent permitted by IRC Section 414(v). Additional limits may apply under the terms of the Plan. The Plan Administrator shall ensure compliance with these IRC limits and any Plan limits.

**DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS ON ELECTIVE CONTRIBUTIONS.** Any portion of this annuity contract that represents elective contributions under a qualified cash or deferred arrangement described in IRC Section 401(k), and any income attributable to such amounts, cannot be distributed any earlier than allowed under IRC Section 401(k)(2)(B). Additional limits may apply under the terms of the Plan. The Plan Administrator shall determine when a distribution is allowed under this IRC section and the Plan.

**DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTIONS ON PENSION CONTRIBUTIONS.** Any portion of this annuity contract that represents contributions to a money purchase pension plan or a defined benefit pension plan, and any income attributable to such amounts, cannot be distributed any earlier than allowed under Section 1.401(b)(1)(i) of the Income Tax Regulations. Additional limits may apply under the terms of the Plan. The Plan Administrator shall determine when a distribution is allowed under this regulation and the Plan.

**DIRECT ROLLOVERS.** To the extent required under IRC Section 401(a)(31), the Annuitant or his or her surviving spouse may elect to have any portion of an eligible rollover distribution, as defined in IRC Section 403(b)(8), paid directly to an Individual Retirement Annuity or Individual Retirement Account, as defined in IRC Section 408, or, if allowed, to another qualified pension, profit sharing, or annuity plan or other eligible retirement plan described in IRC Section 402(c)(8)(B), specified by the Annuitant or surviving spouse and which accepts such distribution. Any direct rollover election must be made on our form, and must be received at our office before the date of payment.

**DATE BENEFITS TO BEGIN.** Unless the Annuitant elects to delay the payment of his or her benefits, distribution of the Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract shall begin no later than 60 days after the end of the Plan year in which the last of the following occurs:

1) the Annuitant has reached the earlier of age 65 or the normal retirement age stated in the Plan;

2) the 10th anniversary of the date that the Annuitant joined the Plan; or

3) the date that the Annuitant has a severance from employment with the Employer.

The Plan Administrator shall make any determination required under this provision.

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In no event can the payment of benefits be delayed beyond the Required Beginning Date stated in the ***Required Minimum Distributions During Life*** provision of this Endorsement.

**REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS DURING LIFE.** All distributions made hereunder shall be made in accordance with the requirements of IRC Section 401(a)(9) and Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations. If distributions are not made in the form of an annuity on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration), then distribution of the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract must satisfy the requirements of IRC Section 401(a)(9) and Section 1.401(a)(9)-5 of the Income Tax Regulations instead of the requirements set out herein.

The Required Beginning Date for distributions under this annuity contract is April 1 following the later of the calendar year in which the Annuitant reaches age 70-1/2 or the calendar year in which the Annuitant retires. For any 5% owner of the Employer, the Required Beginning Date is April 1 following the calendar year in which the Annuitant reaches age 70-1/2. No later than the Required Beginning Date, the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract must begin to be distributed over (i) the Annuitant's life or the lives of the Annuitant and his or her designated beneficiary, or (ii) a period certain not to exceed the Annuitant's life expectancy or the joint and last survivor expectancy of the Annuitant and his or her designated beneficiary. Payments must be made in periodic payments at intervals of no longer than one (1) year, and must be either nonincreasing or they may increase only as provided in Q&A-1 and Q&A-4 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations. In addition, any distribution must satisfy the incidental benefit requirements specified in Q&A-2 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations.

The distribution period described above cannot exceed the period specified in Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations. The first required payment can be made as late as the Required Beginning Date and must be the payment that is required for a single payment interval. The second payment need not be made until the end of the next payment interval.

The Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover or transfer, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under the annuity contract, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

For purposes of this provision, the Annuitant's designated beneficiary is an individual designated under the Plan to receive payments after the Annuitant's death and who qualifies as a designated beneficiary under Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations.

**REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTIONS AFTER DEATH.** If the Annuitant dies after required distributions begin, the remaining portion of the Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract will continue to be distributed under the contract option chosen.

------

If the Annuitant dies before required distributions begin, the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed as least as rapidly as follows:

1) If an individual other than the Annuitant's surviving spouse is his or her designated beneficiary, then the Annuitant's entire interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of that individual, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of the Annuitant's death. The life expectancy of the designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the year of the Annuitant's death. Alternatively, if elected, the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of the Annuitant's death. 

2) If the Annuitant's surviving spouse is his or her sole designated beneficiary, then the Annuitant's entire interest will be distributed over such spouse's life, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of the Annuitant's death, or if later, by the end of the calendar year in which the Annuitant would have reached age 70-1/2. Alternatively, if elected, the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of the Annuitant's death. 

If the Annuitant's surviving spouse dies before required distributions begin to him or her, the remaining interest will be distributed over the remaining life expectancy of the spouse's designated beneficiary, with payments starting by the end of the calendar year following the calendar year of the spouse's death. The life expectancy of the spouse's designated beneficiary will be determined using his or her age as of his or her birthday in the year following the death of the Annuitant's spouse. Alternatively, if elected, the remaining interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year that contains the fifth anniversary of the surviving spouse's death.

If the Annuitant's surviving spouse dies after required distributions begin to him or her, any remaining interest will continue to be distributed under the contract option chosen.

3) If there is no designated beneficiary, then the Annuitant's entire interest in this annuity contract will be distributed by the end of the calendar year containing the fifth anniversary of the Annuitant's death.

Life expectancy is determined using the Single Life Table in Q&A-1 of Section 1.401(a)(9)-9 of the Income Tax Regulations. If distributions are being made to the Annuitant's surviving spouse as the designated beneficiary, the spouse's remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table corresponding to such spouse's age on his or her birthday in the year. In all other cases, remaining life expectancy for a year is the number in the Single Life Table in the year such individual's life expectancy is first determined, reduced by one (1) for each subsequent year.

Required distributions are considered to begin on the Required Beginning Date or, if applicable, on the date distributions are required to begin to a surviving spouse. However, if distributions under this annuity contract start prior to such date on an irrevocable basis (except for acceleration) in a form meeting the requirements of Section 1.401(a)(9)-6T of the Temporary Income Tax Regulations, then required distributions are considered to begin on the annuity starting date.

The Annuitant's interest in this annuity contract includes the amount of any outstanding rollover or transfer, and the actuarial value of any other benefits provided under the annuity contract, such as guaranteed death benefits, to the extent required by regulations.

------

For purposes of this provision, a designated beneficiary is an individual designated under this annuity contract to receive payments after the Annuitant's death (or the death of the surviving spouse) and who qualifies as a designated beneficiary under Section 1.401(a)(9)-4 of the Income Tax Regulations.

This is part of the annuity contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes the annuity contract only as and to the extent stated. In all cases of conflict with the other terms of the annuity contract, the provisions of this Endorsement shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316081405412.jpg) ] | [ ![LOGO](g473116g0316060759715.jpg) ] |
| **[MARK F. MUETHING]** | **[JOHN P. GRUBER]** |
| **[PRESIDENT]** | **[SECRETARY]** |

---

## Ex-4.(B)(9)

**Exhibit 4(b)9** 

**[ ![LOGO](g473116g0317204102776.jpg) ]** 

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Fixed Administrative Office: [191 Rosa Parks Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202]

**EMPLOYER PLAN** 

**ENDORSEMENT** 

The annuity contract is changed as set out below to adapt it for use with an employee benefit plan:

**PLAN.** "Plan" means the employee benefit plan named on your application or any successor plan.

**EMPLOYER.** "Employer" means the employer sponsoring the Plan and named on your application, or any other employer which succeeds to its rights under the Plan.

**PLAN ADMINISTRATOR.** "Plan Administrator" means the person designated as such to us in writing by the Employer. If no person has been designated, "Plan Administrator" means the Employer.

**PLAN INTERPRETATION.** For purposes of this annuity contract, the Plan Administrator shall interpret the Plan and decide all questions about what is allowed or required by the Plan. We have no duty to review or interpret the Plan, or to review or approve any decision of the Plan Administrator. We are entitled to rely on the written directions of the Plan Administrator on such matters.

**APPLICABLE RESTRICTIONS.** This annuity contract may be restricted by federal and/or state laws related to employee benefit plans. We may change the terms of this annuity contract or administer this annuity contract at any time as needed to comply with such laws.

**PLAN DISTRIBUTION PROVISIONS.** Distributions allowed under this annuity contract may be made only at a time allowed by the Plan or required by this annuity contract. The form of any distribution shall be determined under the Plan from among those forms of distribution available under this annuity contract. No distribution may be made without the written direction of the Plan Administrator unless required by this annuity contract. Distributions may be made without your consent when required by the Plan.

**FORFEITURE OF NON-VESTED AMOUNTS.** Any amount under this annuity contract attributable to contributions by the Employer (excluding any contributions made under a salary reduction agreement with your employer) is subject to the vesting provisions of the Plan. If at any time the Plan provides for a forfeiture of an amount that is not vested, then such amount may be withdrawn and paid as directed by the Plan Administrator.

**RETURN OF EXCESS CONTRIBUTIONS.** Contributions made to this annuity contract for you are subject to any limits on contributions and nondiscrimination provisions of the Plan. If the Plan Administrator determines that excess or discriminatory contributions were made, then amounts attributable to such contributions may be withdrawn and paid as directed by the Plan Administrator.

**ENTITLEMENT TO DEATH BENEFITS.** The person or persons entitled to any amount remaining payable under this annuity contract after your death shall be determined under the Plan. No distribution of any such amount shall be made without the written direction of the Plan Administrator.

(Rev. 10/22)

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**INVESTMENT ALLOCATIONS AND TRANSFERS.** If this annuity contract provides that amounts held under it are allocated among separate investment funds or fixed accounts, then any such allocations and/or subsequent transfers shall be made only as required or allowed by the Plan, or as required by this annuity contract to secure a loan. No such allocation or transfer shall be made without the written direction of the Plan Administrator unless required by this annuity contract to secure a loan. Allocations or transfers may be made without your consent when required by the Plan or the annuity contract.

**PLAN LOAN PROVISIONS.** If loans are allowed under this annuity contract, no such loan may be made unless also allowed by the Plan. Any such loan will be subject to any additional limits and conditions which apply under the Plan. No loan may be made without the written direction of the Plan Administrator. The rate of interest to be paid by you on any such loan will be fixed by the Plan Administrator, but we may require that it be at least three percentage points higher than the minimum guaranteed rate of interest, if any, that applies to your interest in this annuity contract used as security for the loan.

**QUALIFIED JOINT AND 50% SURVIVOR ANNUITY OPTION.** In addition to the other payment options available under this annuity contract, payments may be made in the form of a Qualified Joint and 50% Survivor Annuity. Under this payment option, we will make equal payments to you for life at least once per year. If the person who is your spouse at the time payments commence survives you, then after your death we will make payments to such spouse at the same intervals equal to one-half of the amount of the prior payments, with such payments continuing to such spouse until his or her death. The first payment under this payment option will be made on the effective date of the payment option. The amount of the payments we will make under this payment option is based on the intervals for payments, which are subject to our approval. Amounts vary with the ages, as of the first payment date, of you and your spouse. We will require proof of the ages of you and your spouse. Monthly payments that we will make under this payment option for each $1,000 of proceeds applied will be furnished at your request. Once payments begin under this payment option, the value of future payments may not be withdrawn as a commutation of benefits.

This is a part of your annuity contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes the annuity contract only as and to the extent stated. In all cases of conflict with the other terms of the annuity contract, the provisions of this endorsement shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| [ ![LOGO](g473116g0317204104510.jpg) ] | [ ![LOGO](g473116g0317204104666.jpg) ] |
| **[MARK F. MUETHING]** | **[JOHN P. GRUBER]** |
| **[PRESIDENT]** | **[SECRETARY]** |

---

## Ex-4.(D)(3)

**Exhibit 4(d)3**![LOGO](g473116g0318023557809.jpg)

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5423]

**TERMINAL ILLNESS WAIVER RIDER** 

The annuity contract is changed by this Terminal Illness Waiver Rider (this "Rider") to add the following new provisions:

**Terminal Illness Waiver** 

Upon your Written Request, we will waive the Early Withdrawal Charges that may otherwise apply under the Contract to a withdrawal or surrender if at the time of such withdrawal or surrender all of the following conditions are met:

1) an Insured has been diagnosed with a terminal illness by a Physician;

2) as a result of the terminal illness, such Insured has a life expectancy of less than twelve (12) months from the date of diagnosis; and

3) such illness is first diagnosed at least one (1) year after the Contract Effective Date.

An amount withdrawn under this waiver will reduce the amount otherwise available under the free withdrawal allowance under the Contract.

**Definitions** 

Capitalized terms not defined in this Rider have the same meaning as such terms are defined in the Contract. The following additional definitions apply to this Rider.

**Insured:** An individual whose diagnosis is used to qualify for benefits under this Rider. Each Owner or joint owner of the annuity contract on the Contract Effective Date who is a natural person is an Insured. If on the Contract Effective Date you or a joint owner is a non-natural person, then each Annuitant on such date who is a natural person is an Insured. For this purpose, an individual acting as a trustee or plan sponsor is not treated as a natural person. No person other than a successor owner may become an Insured after the date that this Rider is issued. If the spouse of the person who is the Insured on the date that this Rider is issued becomes the successor owner of the Contract, then that spouse will become the Insured. The insured is the individual who is the Owner of the Contract, without regard to any joint owner. If the Owner or a joint owner is not a human being, then the insured is the individual who is the Annuitant under the Contract, without regard to any Joint Annuitant.

(Rev. 10/22)

------

**Early Withdrawal Charge:** The early withdrawal charge that may apply to a withdrawal or surrender under the Contract. It does not include the reduction in the value of an Indexed Strategy on account of a decline in the Index. It does not include the impact of a vesting factor or other calculation applied to determine the increase in the value of an Indexed Strategy for a rise in the Index. It does not include a rider fee or charge.

**Physician:** A United States licensed medical doctor (M.D.) or a United States licensed doctor of osteopathy (D.O.) practicing within the scope of his or her license. The term "Physician" does not include an Owner or joint owner, an Insured, a Family Member of an Owner, joint owner, or Insured, or an employee, officer, director, owner, partner, member, or agent of a non-natural person Owner or joint owner.

**Family Member:** A spouse, parent, grandparent, child, grandchild, sibling, aunt, uncle, first cousin, niece, or nephew, or any such relative by marriage or adoption, including in-laws and step-relatives.

**Written Notice of Claim** 

You must provide us with a written notice of a claim for a waiver under this Rider:

1) within twenty (20) days of the date of diagnosis of the terminal illness or as soon thereafter as is reasonably possible; and

2) before the date of the withdrawal or surrender with respect to which a waiver under this Rider is claimed.

Notice given by, or on behalf of the Insured, to us at our address or telephone number, or to any authorized agent of the Company, with information sufficient to identify the Insured, shall be deemed notice to us.

**Claim Forms** 

Upon receipt of written notice of a claim for a waiver under this Rider, we will furnish to you a form or forms for filing a proof of occurrence. If we do not furnish such form or forms within fifteen (15) days of receipt of the written notice of claim, you will be deemed to have complied with the requirements as to proof of occurrence upon submitting, within the time period set out in the Written Proof of Occurrence provision below, written proof covering the character and the extent of the occurrence covered by this Rider.

**Written Proof of Occurrence** 

You must provide us with written proof of occurrence of the conditions set out in the "Waiver" provision above. You must provide us with such written proof of occurrence:

1) within ninety (90) days after the date of the diagnosis of the terminal illness; and

2) before the date of the withdrawal or surrender with respect to which a waiver under this Rider is claimed.

Failure to furnish written proof of occurrence shall not invalidate or reduce the claim for a waiver under this Rider if it was not reasonably possible to give written proof of occurrence within ninety (90) days after the date of the diagnosis of the terminal illness, provided written proof of occurrence is furnished as soon as reasonably possible and, except in the absence of legal capacity, no later than one (1) year from the time such proof is otherwise required.

**Physical Examination** 

At our own expense, we shall have the right and opportunity to have a Physician of our choosing examine the person of the Insured when and as often as we may reasonably require during the pendency of any claim for a waiver under this Rider.

**Termination** 

This Rider will terminate and shall have no value when one of the following occurs:

1) when no further Early Withdrawal Charges can ever apply under the Contract;

------

2) you surrender or annuitize the Contract; or

3) a death that would give rise to a death benefit under the Contract, unless a successor owner election is made that causes the spouse of an Insured to continue as or become the Insured.

**Reinstatement** 

Neither your Contract nor this Rider provides for reinstatement of this Rider.

**Entire Contract and Changes** 

Your Contract, this rider, any other riders or endorsements attached to it, and any papers attached to it by us, including the application if attached, constitute the entire annuity contract between you and us. No agent or producer has authority to change this annuity contract or to waive any of its provisions.

This Rider is a part of your Contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes your Contract only as and to the extent stated. In the case of conflict with other terms of the Contract, the terms of this Rider shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| ![LOGO](g473116g0318023559621.jpg) | ![LOGO](g473116g0318023559777.jpg) |
| **MARK F. MUETHING** | **JOHN P. GRUBER** |
| **EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT** | **SECRETARY** |

---

## Ex-4.(D)(4)

**Exhibit 4(d)4**![LOGO](g473116g0317204102776.jpg)

Home Office: Cincinnati, Ohio

Administrative Office: [P.O. Box 5423, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-5423]

**WAIVER OF EARLY WITHDRAWAL CHARGES** 

**FOR FACILITY CARE OR HOME CARE OR** 

**COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES RIDER** 

The annuity contract ("Contract") is changed by this Waiver of Early Withdrawal Charges for Facility Care or Home Care or Community-Based Services Rider (this "Rider") to add the following new provisions:

**Waiver** 

Upon receipt of written notice of claim, as described in the Written Notice of Claim provision below, and receipt of written proof of occurrence, as described in the Written Proof of Occurrence provision below, we will waive the Early Withdrawal Charges that may otherwise apply under the Contract to a withdrawal or surrender if, at the time of such withdrawal or surrender, or within the immediately preceding ninety (90) days, all of the following conditions are met:

1) an Insured is confined in a Facility or is receiving, as prescribed by a Physician, Registered Nurse, or Licensed Social Worker, Home Care or Community-Based Services;

2) the Insured's confinement in a Facility, the Insured's receipt of Home Care or Community-Based Services, or any combination thereof has continued for a period of at least ninety (90) consecutive days; and

3) the first day of such ninety (90)-day period was at least one (1) year after the effective date of the Contract.

An amount withdrawn under this waiver will reduce the amount otherwise available under the free withdrawal allowance under the Contract.

**Definitions** 

Capitalized terms not defined in this Rider have the same meaning as such terms are defined in the Contract. The following additional definitions apply to this Rider:

**Insured:** An individual whose confinement in a Facility or whose receipt of Home Care or Community-Based Services is used to qualify for benefits under this Rider. Each Owner or joint owner of the Contract on the Contract Effective Date who is a natural person is an Insured. If, on the Contract Effective Date, you or a joint owner is a non-natural person, then each Annuitant on such date who is a natural person is an Insured. For this purpose, an individual acting as a trustee or plan sponsor is not treated as a natural person. Except as provided for a spouse who becomes successor owner, no person may become an Insured after the date that the Rider is issued. If the spouse of the person who is the Insured on the date that this Rider is issued becomes the successor owner of the Contract in lieu of a death benefit, then that spouse will become the Insured. The Insured is the individual who is the Owner of the Contract, without regard to any joint owner. If the Owner or a joint owner is not a human being, then the Insured is the individual who is the Annuitant under the Contract, without regard to any Joint Annuitant.

**Early Withdrawal Charge:** The early withdrawal charge that may apply to a withdrawal or surrender under the Contract. It does not include the reduction in the value of an Indexed Strategy on account of a decline in the Index. It does not include the impact of a vesting factor or other calculation applied to determine the increase in the value of an Indexed Strategy for a rise in the Index. It does not include a rider fee or charge.

-1- (Rev. 10/22)

------

**Facility:** A Skilled Nursing Facility, as defined in the Medicare program; a convalescent nursing home, as defined in the Medicare program; an extended care facility, as defined in the Medicare program; a residential care facility, as defined in the California Health and Safety Code; or a residential care facility for the elderly, as defined in the California Health and Safety Code.

**Home Care or Community-Based Services:** Home health care, adult day care, personal care, homemaker services, hospice services and respite care as each is defined below.

1) "Home health care" is skilled nursing or other professional services in the residence, including, but not limited to, part-time and intermittent skilled nursing services, home health aid services, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy and audiology services, and medical social services by a social worker. 

2) "Adult day care" is medical or nonmedical care on a less than twenty-four (24)-hour basis, provided in a licensed facility outside the residence, for persons in need of personal services, supervision, protection, or assistance in sustaining daily needs, including eating, bathing, dressing, ambulating, transferring, toileting, and taking medications. 

3) "Personal care" is assistance with the activities of daily living, including the instrumental activities of daily living, provided by a skilled or unskilled person under a plan of care developed by a physician or a multidisciplinary team under medical direction. "Instrumental activities of daily living" include using the telephone, managing medications, moving about outside, shopping for essentials, preparing meals, laundry, and light housekeeping. 

4) "Homemaker services" is assistance with activities necessary to or consistent with the insured's ability to remain in his or her residence, that is provided by a skilled or unskilled person under a plan of care developed by a physician or a multidisciplinary team under medical direction.

5) "Hospice services" are outpatient services not paid by Medicare, that are designed to provide palliative care, alleviate the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual discomforts of an individual who is experiencing the last phases of life due to the existence of a terminal disease, and to provide supportive care to the primary care giver and the family. Care may be provided by a skilled or unskilled person under a plan of care developed by a physician or a multidisciplinary team under medical direction. 

6) "Respite care" is short-term care provided in an institution, in the home, or in a community-based program, that is designed to relieve a primary care giver in the home.

Service providers outside the State of California shall be defined as comparable in licensure and staffing requirements to providers in the State of California.

**Physician:** A person who is licensed in the United States as a medical doctor (M.D.) or a doctor of osteopathy (D.O.) and who is practicing within the scope of his or her license. The term "Physician" does not include an Owner or joint owner; an Insured; a Family Member of an Owner, joint owner, or Insured; or an employee, officer, director, owner, partner, member, or agent of a non-natural Owner or joint owner.

**Registered Nurse:** A person who is licensed in the United States as a nurse and who is practicing within the scope of his or her license. The term "Registered Nurse" does not include an Owner or joint owner; an Insured; a Family Member of an Owner, joint owner, or Insured; or an employee, officer, director, owner, partner, member, or agent of a non-natural Owner or joint owner.

**Licensed Social Worker:** A person who is licensed in the United States as a social worker and who is practicing within the scope of his or her license. The term "Licensed Social Worker" does not include an Owner or joint owner; an Insured; a Family Member of an Owner, joint owner, or Insured; or an employee, officer, director, owner, partner, member, or agent of a non-natural Owner or joint owner.

**Family Member:** A spouse, child, parent, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, aunt, uncle, first cousin, niece, or nephew, or any such relative by marriage or adoption, including in-laws and step-relatives.

------

**Written Notice of Claim** 

You must provide us with a written notice of a claim for a waiver under this Rider:

1) within twenty (20) days of the occurrence covered by this Rider or as soon thereafter as is reasonably possible; and

2) before the date of the withdrawal or surrender with respect to which a waiver under this Rider is claimed.

Notice given by, or on behalf of the Insured, to us at our address or telephone number, or to any authorized agent of the Company, with information sufficient to identify the Insured, shall be deemed notice to us.

**Claim Forms** 

Upon receipt of written notice of a claim for a waiver under this Rider, we will furnish to you a form or forms for filing a proof of occurrence. If we do not furnish such form or forms within fifteen (15) days of receipt of the written notice of claim, you will be deemed to have complied with the requirements as to proof of occurrence upon submitting, within the time period set out in the Written Proof of Occurrence provision below, written proof covering the character and the extent of the occurrence covered by this Rider.

**Written Proof of Occurrence** 

You must provide us with written proof of occurrence of the conditions set out in the "Waiver" provision above. You must provide us with such written proof of occurrence:

1) within ninety (90) days after the date of the occurrence; and

2) before the date of the withdrawal or surrender with respect to which a waiver under this Rider is claimed.

Failure to furnish written proof of occurrence shall not invalidate or reduce the claim for a waiver under this Rider if it was not reasonably possible to give written proof of occurrence within ninety (90) days after the date of the occurrence, provided written proof of occurrence is furnished as soon as reasonably possible and, except in the absence of legal capacity, no later than one (1) year from the time such proof is otherwise required.

**Physical Examination** 

At our own expense, we shall have the right and opportunity to examine the person of the Insured when and as often as we may reasonably require during the pendency of any claim for a waiver under this Rider.

**Exclusions** 

This waiver shall not apply to confinement in a Facility or receipt of Home Care or Community-Based Services that was:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1. caused or substantially contributed to by any attempt at suicide or intentionally self-inflicted injury, while
sane or insane;

1) caused or substantially contributed to by war or an act of war;

2) caused or substantially contributed to by active participation in a riot, insurrection, or terrorist activity;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2. caused or substantially contributed to by committing or attempting to commit a felony;

3) caused or substantially contributed to by voluntary intake of either: (A) any drug, unless prescribed or administered by a Physician and taken in accordance with the Physician's instructions; or (B) poison, gas, or fumes, unless they are the direct result of an occupational accident; 

4) in consequence of the Insured being intoxicated, as defined by the jurisdiction where the Insured is confined in a Facility or receiving Home Care or Community-Based Services; or

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;3. caused or substantially contributed to by engaging in an illegal occupation.

------

**Termination** 

This Rider will terminate and have no value when one of the following occurs:

1) the Early Withdrawal Charge period ends and no further Early Withdrawal Charge period will apply under the Contract;

2) you surrender or annuitize the Contract; or

3) a death that would give rise to a death benefit under the Contract, unless a successor owner election is made that causes the spouse of an Insured to continue as or become the Insured.

**Reinstatement** 

Neither your Contract nor this Rider provides for reinstatement of this Rider.

**Entire Contract and Changes** 

Your Contract, this rider, any other riders or endorsements attached to it, and any papers attached to it by us, including the application if attached, constitute the entire annuity contract between you and us. No agent or producer has authority to change this annuity contract or to waive any of its provisions.

This Rider is part of your Contract. It is not a separate contract. It changes your Contract only as and to the extent stated. In the case of conflict with other terms of the Contract, the terms of this Rider shall control.

Signed for us at our office as of the date of issue.

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| ![LOGO](g473116g0316060036725.jpg) | ![LOGO](g473116g0317204104666.jpg) |
| **MARK F. MUETHING** | **JOHN P. GRUBER** |
| **EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT** | **SECRETARY** |

---

## Ex-24.(A)

**Exhibit 24(a)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Dominic L. Blue, director of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set his hand this 15<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Springfield, State of Massachusetts.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Dominic L. Blue |
| **Dominic L. Blue, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(B)

**Exhibit 24(b)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Susan M. Cicco, director of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set her hand this 13<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Boston, State of Massachusetts.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Susan M. Cicco |
| **Susan M. Cicco, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(C)

**Exhibit 24(c)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Geoffrey J. Craddock, director of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set his hand this 12<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Boston, State of Massachusetts.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Geoffrey J. Craddock |
| **Geoffrey J. Craddock, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(D)

**Exhibit 24(d)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Roger W. Crandall, director of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set his hand this 13<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Boston, State of Massachusetts.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Roger W. Crandall |
| **Roger W. Crandall, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(E)

**Exhibit 24(e)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Michael R. Fanning, director and Chief Executive Officer of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set his hand this 12<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Boston, State of Massachusetts.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Michael R. Fanning |
| **Michael R. Fanning, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(F)

**Exhibit 24(f)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Paul A. LaPiana, director of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set his hand this 12<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Park City, State of Utah.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Paul A. LaPiana |
| **Paul A. LaPiana, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(G)

**Exhibit 24(g)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Sears Merritt, director of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set his hand this 13<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Boston, State of Massachusetts.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Sears Merritt |
| **Sears Merritt, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(H)

**Exhibit 24(h)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Mark F. Muething, director and President of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set his hand this 14<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Cincinnati, State of Ohio.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Mark F. Muething |
| **Mark F. Muething, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(I)

**Exhibit 24(i)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Michael J. O'Connor, director of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set his hand this 12<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Boston, State of Massachusetts.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Michael J. O'Connor |
| **Michael J. O'Connor, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(J)

**Exhibit 24(j)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Eric W. Partlan, director of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set his hand this 12<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Boston, State of Massachusetts.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Eric W. Partlan |
| **Eric W. Partlan, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(K)

**Exhibit 24(k)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Arthur W. Wallace, director of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set his hand this 13<sup>th</sup> day of December, 2022, in the City of Springfield, State of Massachusetts.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Arthur W. Wallace |
| **Arthur W. Wallace, Director** |

---

## Ex-24.(L)

**Exhibit 24(l)** 

**<u>POWER OF ATTORNEY: RILA PRODUCT FILINGS</u>**

The Undersigned, Elizabeth A. Ward, director and Chief Financial Officer of MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company ("MMALIC"), appoints John Gruber, General Counsel of MMALIC, and all persons succeeding him in the capacity of General Counsel, Mark Muething, President of MMALIC, and John Domaschko, Divisional Assistant Vice President, Legal (collectively referred to hereafter as "Attorneys"), as the Undersigned's true and lawful attorneys and agents, each with full power to act individually.

This Power of Attorney authorizes each such Attorney (a) to sign and cause to be filed registration statements of MMALIC under the Securities Act of 1933 for each of the MMALIC Contract Categories listed in the chart below, and all amendments, consents and exhibits thereto; (b) to withdraw such statements or any amendments or exhibits and make requests for acceleration in connection therewith; (c) to take all other action of whatever kind or nature in connection with such registration statements which said attorneys may deem advisable; and (d) to make, file, execute, amend and withdraw documents of every kind, and to take other action of whatever kind they may elect, for the purpose of complying with the laws of any state relating to the sale of securities of MMALIC, the Securities Act of 1933, and any rule, regulation, order or other requirement of the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all actions of said attorney and agent hereunder.

---

| |
|:---|
| **<u>MMALIC Contract Categories</u>** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Frontier Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Summit 6 Pro Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **Index Achiever Contracts** |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; **New Registered Indexed Linked Annuity contract (Name TBD), to be filed by January 2023** |

---

This Power of Attorney hereby revokes any powers of attorney previously given by the Undersigned relating to the MMALIC registration statements listed above, provided that this revocation shall not affect the exercise of such power prior to the date hereof. This Power of Attorney shall not be affected by subsequent disability or incapacity of the Undersigned.

The Undersigned has set her hand this 12th day of December, 2022, in the City of Boston, State of Massachusetts.

---

| |
|:---|
| /s/ Elizabeth A. Ward |
| **Elizabeth A. Ward, Director** |

---

## Ex-Filing

**Exhibit 107** 

**Calculation of Filing Fee Tables** 

Form S-1

(Form Type)

Great American Life Insurance Company

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)

<u>Table 1: Newly Registered and Carry Forward Securities</u> 

---

| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|:---|
|  | Security<br>Type | Security<br> Class<br> Title | Fee<br>Calculation<br>or Carry<br>Forward<br>Rule | Amount<br>Registered | Proposed<br>Maximum<br>Offering<br>Price Per<br>Unit | Maximum<br> Aggregate<br> Offering<br> Price | Fee<br>Rate | Amount of<br>Registration<br>Fee | Carry<br>Forward<br>Form<br>Type | Carry<br> Forward<br> File<br> Number | Carry<br>Forward<br>Initial<br>Effective<br>Date | Filing Fee<br>Previously<br> Paid in<br>Connection<br> with<br> Unsold<br> Securities<br> to be<br> Carried<br> Forward |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Newly Registered Securities |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fees<br> Previously<br> Paid | Other | Individual Index-linked Modified Single Premium Deferred Annuity Contract and interests therein | 457(o) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | $0 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities | &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Carry Forward Securities |
| &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Carry<br> Forward<br> Securities | Other | Individual Index-linked Modified Single Premium Deferred Annuity Contract and interests therein | 415(a)(6) | N/A | N/A | $1126668050 | N/A | N/A | Form S-1 | 333-263934 | 5/2/2022 | $104655.47 |
|  | Total Offering Amounts | Total Offering Amounts | Total Offering Amounts | Total Offering Amounts |  | $1126668050 |  | $0 |  |  |  |  |
|  | Total Fees Previously Paid | Total Fees Previously Paid | Total Fees Previously Paid | Total Fees Previously Paid |  |  |  | $0 |  |  |  |  |
|  | Total Fee Offsets | Total Fee Offsets | Total Fee Offsets | Total Fee Offsets |  |  |  | $0 |  |  |  |  |
|  | Net Fee Due | Net Fee Due | Net Fee Due | Net Fee Due |  |  |  | $0 |  |  |  |  |

---

## Cover

![LOGO](g473116g0316062340619.jpg)

March 22, 2023

**<u>VIA EDGAR</u>**

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE

Washington, DC 20549

---

| | |
|:---|:---|
| **Re:** | **MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company**  |

---

**Registration Statement on Form S-1** 

Commissioners:

MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company (the "Company") is filing under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), a registration statement (the "Registration Statement") for the Index Frontier 7 Annuity and the Index Frontier 5 Annuity, each a modified single premium deferred annuity contract (the "Contracts"). The Registration Statement includes a separate prospectus for each Contract and a single Part II.

The Company respectfully requests selective review of the Registration Statement in accordance with Securities Act Release No. 6510 (Feb. 15, 1984). Except for the changes discussed below, the disclosure in the Registration Statement is not substantially different from the disclosure included in Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the prior registration statement for the Contracts, as filed on April 29, 2022 (File No. 333-263934; Accession No. 0001193125-22-132631), which was reviewed by the Commission staff and declared effective by the Commission on May 2, 2022.

The changes made in the Registration Statement reflect:

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• The new names and addresses of the issuer and the principal underwriter of the Contracts.

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;• Other nonmaterial revisions.

If the Registration Statement were eligible to be filed pursuant to Rule 485 under the 1933 Act, the Company would make the filing pursuant to Rule 485(b) because it does not include any material changes compared to the currently effective registration statement other than those that would be permitted by Rule 485(b).

The Company intends to file a subsequent pre-effective amendment to bring the Company's financial statements and other financial information included in the prospectus up to date.

The Company will separately provide a marked copy of the Registration Statement to facilitate the Commission Staff's review. Other than the new and revised disclosures in the Registration Statement reflecting the changes listed above, the Company believes that there are no other disclosures in the Registration Statement that warrant particular attention by the Commission staff.

------

The Company respectfully requests that the Staff review the Registration Statement as soon as possible. The Company, if practicable, is seeking to have the Registration Statement be effective on or before May 1, 2023.

Please direct any questions or comments regarding the Registration Statement to the undersigned at 513.361.9401 or at jdomaschko@mmascend.com.

---

| |
|:---|
| Sincerely, |
| /s/ John V. Domaschko |
| John V. Domaschko |
| Divisional Assistant Vice President |
| MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company |

---

cc: John V. Domaschko, MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company

John P. Gruber, MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company

Dodie Kent, Eversheds Sutherland (US) LLP