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Are Annuities Right For You?

Are Annuities Right For You?

If you are looking at options for diversifying your retirement savings, consider annuities. Annuities offer a variety of choices to help meet your investment needs and are a smart addition to an existing pension plan or Social Security benefits.

Two Types of Annuities:

· Fixed Annuities have a fixed rate of interest with a guaranteed minimum interest rate. The interest rate is declared periodically and may increase or decrease, but will not fall below the guaranteed interest rate.

· Variable Annuities offer a range of subaccounts typically comprised of stocks, bonds and/or money market investments. The performance of the subaccounts determines your earnings and there is no minimum guaranteed return. Variable annuities can offer greater potential for growth but at a higher assumed risk of losing principal.

Attractive Features:

· Save Money Tax-Deferred- Annuities can help you save for retirement on a taxdeferred basis. You pay no taxes on your earnings until you begin to withdraw your money.

· Retirement Income that Meets Your Timeline - Annuities can be set-up to provide lifelong income or pay you for a specified period of time. You can elect an immediate income payment or a deferred income payment which begins at a future date, such as retirement and in the manner you specify.

· Flexible Payment Options - An annuity can be funded in one lump-sum premium payment or at your convenience in the amount you choose (subject to policy minimums and after an initial premium payment is made).

· Beneficiary Options - An annuity can provide death benefits directly to a designated beneficiary, avoiding probate and possible additional costs.

According to the Social Security Administration, the average monthly benefit in January 2007 was just over $950. That's little more than $11,000 per year.1 Employer-sponsored retirement plans such as a 401(k) are important in preparing for retirement, but annual contributions to these plans are limited. You may find a Farm Bureau annuity can help ensure you are financially prepared for your retirement years.

1 Social Security Administration, Monthly Statistical Snapshot, www.ssa.gov (January 2007)

Tips brought to you by Jason Fleming, Career Agent with Farm Bureau Financial Services. For more information on auto, home, life, college and retirement funding products and services, call Jason Fleming at 763-780-6867.

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Registered Representative / Securities and Servi ces offered through EquiTrust Marketing Services, LLC*, 5400 University Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266, 877/860/2904, Member SIPC.

Variable product subaccounts are subject to market risk and possible loss of principal. This and other important information is contained in the prospectus, which can be obtained from a Registered Representative and should be read carefully before you invest or pay money. Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses of a fund carefully before investing.

Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company* and Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company*/West Des Moines, IA.

+Affiliated, and Companies of Farm Bureau Financial Services

Posted Sunday Dec 07