As filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on April 23, 2024
  1933 Act Registration No. 033-22740
1940 Act Registration No. 811-05585
 

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 41 TO
FORM S-6
FOR REGISTRATION UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
OF SECURITIES OF UNIT INVESTMENT TRUSTS
REGISTERED ON FORM N-8B-2

 

LINCOLN LIFE FLEXIBLE PREMIUM VARIABLE LIFE ACCOUNT G
(Exact Name of Trust)

 

THE LINCOLN NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
(Name of Depositor)

 

1301 South Harrison Street Fort Wayne, IN 46802
(Complete Address of Depositor's Principal Executive Offices)

 

Craig Beazer, Esq.
The Lincoln National Life
Insurance Company
150 North Radnor Chester Road
Radnor, PA 19087
(Name and Complete Address
of Agent for Service)
  Copy To:
Jassmin McIver-Jones
The Lincoln National Life
Insurance Company
100 N. Greene Street
Greensboro, NC 27401
  
 

Approximate date of proposed public offering: Continuous

 

Indefinite Number of Units of Interest in Variable Life Insurance Contracts

(Title of Securities Being Registered)

 

An indefinite amount of the securities being offered by the Registration Statement has been registered pursuant to Rule 24f-2 under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Form 24f-2 for Registrant, for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023 was filed March 25, 2024.

 

It is proposed that this filing will become effective:

 

[ ]   immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)

[X]   on May 1, 2024 pursuant to paragraph (b)

[ ]   60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)

[ ]   on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation and Tie Between Items

 

in Form N-8B-2 and the Prospectus

 

for Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G

 

N-8B-2    
Item   Caption in Prospectus
  1     Cover Page
  2     Cover Page
  3     Not Applicable
  4     Lincoln Life
  5     Lincoln Life
  6     The Separate Account
  7     Not Required
  8     Not Required
  9     Legal Proceedings
  10     The Separate Account; Right to Examine Policy; Surrender of the Policy; Withdrawals; Proceeds and payment options; Addition, Deletion, or Substitution of Investments; Transfer Between Subaccounts; Policy Lapse and Reinstatement; Voting Rights; Premium Payment and Allocation of Premiums; Death Benefits and Death Benefit Types; Policy Changes; Policy Value; Proceeds and Payment Options
  11     Lincoln Life; The General Account; The Separate Account
  12     The Separate Account; Lincoln Life
  13     Charges and Deductions
  14     Requirements for Issuance of a Policy
  15     Premium Payment and Allocation of Premiums
  16     Premium Payment and Allocation of Premiums; Percent of Premium Charge; Charges and Deductions
  17     Surrender of the Policy
  18     The Separate Account
  19     Reports and Records
  20     Not Applicable
  21     Loans
  22     Not Applicable
  23     Safekeeping of the Account's Assets

 

 

 

 

  24     General Provisions
  25     Lincoln Life
  26     Not Applicable
  27     Lincoln Life
  28     Executive Officers and Directors of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company
  29     Lincoln Life
  30     Not Applicable
  31     Not Applicable
  32     Not Applicable
  33     Not Applicable
  34     Not Applicable
  35     Distribution of the Policies and Compensation
  36     Not Required
  37     Not Applicable
  38     Distribution of the Policies and Compensation
  39     Distribution of the Policies and Compensation
  40     Not Applicable
  41     Lincoln Life; Distribution of the Policies and Compensation
  42     Not Applicable
  43     Not Applicable
  44     Not Applicable
  45     Not Applicable
  46     Not Applicable
  47     The Separate Account
  48     Not Applicable
  49     Not Applicable
  50     The Separate Account
  51     Lincoln Life; Premium Payment and Allocation of Premiums; Surrender of the Policy; Withdrawals; Proceeds; Policy Lapse and Reinstatement; Charges and Deductions
  52     Addition, Deletion and Substitution of Investments
  53     Federal Tax Matters
  54     Not Applicable

 

 

 

 

  55     Not Applicable
  56     Not Required
  57     Not Required
  58     Not Required
  59     Not Required

 

 

 

Home Office:
1301 South Harrison Street
P.O. Box 1110
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
(800-454-6265)

Administrative Office:
Customer Service Center
100 N. Greene Street
Greensboro, NC 27401
(800-487-1485)

VUL III

Lincoln Life Flexible
Premium Variable
Life Account G

Prospectus

Dated: May 1, 2024

This prospectus describes a flexible premium variable life insurance contract (the "policy"), offered by The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company ("Lincoln Life", "We", "Us", "Our", the "Company").

The Policy features:  - flexible premium payments,
- a choice of two death benefit options, and
- a choice of underlying investment options.

It may not be advantageous to replace existing life insurance or an annuity contract or supplement an existing flexible premium variable life insurance contract with this policy. This Separate Account prospectus is being furnished along with the prospectuses for the funds. Both should be read carefully to understand the policy being offered. Remember, you are looking to the financial strength of the Company for fulfillment of the contractual promises and guarantees, including those related to death benefits.

You may allocate net premiums to subaccounts which invest in the following funds:

American Funds Insurance Series®

•  Asset Allocation Fund (Class 1)

•  Global Growth Fund (Class 1)

•  Global Small Capitalization Fund (Class 1)

•  Growth Fund (Class 1)

•  Growth-Income Fund (Class 1)

•  High-Income Trust (Class 1)

•  International Fund (Class 1)

•  The Bond Fund of America (Class 1)

•  U.S. Government Securities Fund (Class 1)

•  Ultra-Short Bond Fund (Class 1)

Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust

•  LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund (Standard Class)

•  LVIP Macquarie Mid Cap Value Fund (Standard Class)
(Formerly LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund)

You should also review the prospectuses for the funds and keep all prospectuses for future reference. All prospectuses and other shareholder reports will be made available on www.lfg.com/VULprospectus.

Review your personal financial objectives and discuss them with a qualified registered representative before you buy a variable life insurance policy. Review this prospectus and the funds' prospectuses to achieve a clear understanding of the investment objectives of the subaccounts and of the respective underlying funds you are considering. This policy may, or may not, be appropriate for your individual financial goals. If you are already entitled to favorable financial tax treatment, you should satisfy yourself that this policy meets your other financial goals before you buy it. The value of the policy and, under one option, the death benefit amount depends on the investment results of the funding options you select.

The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

This policy may not be available in all states, and this prospectus only offers the policy for sale in jurisdictions where such offer and sale are approved.


Table of Contents

Summary of the Policy

   

3

   
Lincoln Life, the General Account and the
Separate Account
   

10

   

Lincoln Life

   

10

   

The General Account

   

11

   

The Separate Account

   

11

   

Principal Underwriter

   

12

   

Fund Participation Agreements

   

13

   

The Investment Advisors

   

13

   
Addition, Deletion, or Substitution of
Investments
   

13

   

The Policy

   

14

   

Requirements for Issuance of a Policy

   

14

   

Units and Unit Values

   

14

   

Premium Payment and Allocation of Premiums

   

15

   

Dollar Cost Averaging Program

   

16

   

Effective Date

   

17

   

Right to Examine Policy

   

17

   

Policy Termination

   

17

   

Continuation of Coverage

   

17

   

Charges and Deductions

   

18

   

Percent of Premium Charge

   

18

   

Contingent Deferred Sales Charge

   

18

   

Contingent Deferred Administrative Charge

   

19

   

Surrender Charge

   

20

   

Monthly Deductions

   

20

   

Cost of Insurance Charges

   

20

   

Monthly Administrative Charge

   

21

   

Fund Charges and Expenses

   

21

   

Mortality and Expense Risk Charge

   

22

   

Other Charges

   

22

   

Reduction of Charges

   

22

   

Term Conversion Credits

   

22

   

Policy Benefits

   

23

   

Death Benefit and Death Benefit Types

   

23

   

Death Benefit Guarantee

   

25

   

Policy Changes

   

25

   

Policy Value

   

26

   

Transfer Between Subaccounts

   

27

   

Transfer to and from the General Account

   

28

   

Market Timing

   

28

   

Loans

   

30

   

Withdrawals

   

31

   

Policy Lapse and Reinstatement

   

31

   

Surrender of the Policy

   

32

   

Proceeds and Payment Options

   

32

   

General Provisions

   

33

   

The Contract

   

33

   

Suicide

   

33

   

Representations and Contestability

   

33

   

Incorrect Age or Gender

   

34

   

Change of Owner or Beneficiary

   

34

   

Assignment

   

35

   

Reports and Records

   

35

   

Projection of Benefits and Values

   

35

   

Postponement of Payments

   

35

   

Riders

   

35

   

Distribution of the Policies and Compensation

   

37

   

Advertising and Ratings

   

38

   
Tax Issues    

39

   

Taxation of Life Insurance Contracts in General

   

39

   

Policies that are MECs

   

40

   
Policies that are not MECs    

41

   

Other Considerations

   

41

   

Tax Status of Lincoln Life

   

42

   
Fair Market Value of Your Policy    

43

   
Voting Rights    

43

   
State Regulation of Lincoln Life and the
Separate Account
   

43

   
Safekeeping of the Separate Account's Assets    

44

   

Legal Proceedings

   

44

   

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

   

44

   

Experts

   

44

   
Officers & Directors of the Lincoln National
Life Insurance Company
   

45

   

Additional Information

   

47

   

Appendix A: Table of Base Minimum Premiums

   

48

   

Appendix B: Table of Surrender Charges

   

50

   

Appendix C: Illustrations of Policy Values

   

52

   

Financial Statements

 

Separate Account Financial Statements

   

G-1

   

Company Financial Statements

   

S-1

   


2


Summary of the Policy

This section is an overview of key policy features and is intended to provide you with a brief explanation of some of the important features of your policy. Its value may change on a:

1)  fixed basis;

2)  variable basis; or a

3)  combination of both fixed and variable bases.

We offer other variable life insurance policies and variable annuity contracts with different features, benefits and charges. These policies also provide values that vary in accordance with the investment experience of a separate account of Lincoln Life.

At all times, your policy must qualify as life insurance under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") to receive favorable tax treatment under federal law. If these requirements are met, you may benefit from favorable federal tax treatment. Lincoln Life reserves the right to return your premium payments if they result in your policy's failing to meet federal tax law requirements.

The state in which your policy is issued will govern whether or not certain features, charges and fees will be allowed in your policy. You should refer to your policy contract for these state specific provisions.

Your policy will be issued with pages that reference your benefits, premium costs and other policy information (policy specification pages).

Dates

Note: The policy specifications pages (and any specifications pages relating to riders you may purchase) reference certain dates that are very important in understanding when your coverage begins and ends, when certain benefits become available and when certain rights or obligations arise or terminate. Generally, terms such as "policy date", "effective date" or "policy effective date" (or "rider date", "rider effective date") refer to the date that coverage under the policy (or rider) becomes effective and is the date from which policy years, policy anniversary and ages are determined. Terms such as "issue date" or "policy issue date" (or "rider issue date") generally refer to when we print or produce the policy (or rider), but such dates may have importance beyond that date. For example, the period of time we may have to contest a claim submitted in the first couple years of the policy will typically start on the date the policy is issued and not the date the policy goes into effect. Please read your policy carefully and make sure you understand which dates are important and why.

Initial Choices to be Made

The initial owner of the policy (the "owner" or "you") is named in the "policy specifications" and has all of the policy ownership rights. If no owner is named the insured (the person whose life is insured under the policy) is the owner. If a policy has been absolutely assigned, the assignee is the owner.

You, as the owner, have three important initial choices to make:

•  one of two death benefit options;

•  the amount of premium you want to pay; and

•  how your premium is allocated among the funding options you select.

Several riders are also available under the policy. (See Riders)


3


Level or Varying Death Benefit

We pay the death benefit to the beneficiary(ies), calculated on the date the insured died, less outstanding loan account balances, other outstanding amounts due, and surrendered amounts.

When you purchase your policy, you must choose one of two death benefit options. If you choose option 1, the death benefit will be the greater of: the specified amount of the policy (as explained in the Death Benefits Section) or a specified percentage of the policy value on or prior to the date of the insured's death. If you choose option 2, the death benefit will be the greater of: the specified amount plus the policy value of the policy or a specified percentage of the policy value on or prior to the date of death. (See Death Benefit and Death Benefit Types)

For the first two years of your policy, there is a death benefit guarantee monthly premium. This means that the death benefit will not be lower than the initial specified amount regardless of the gains or losses of the subaccounts you select as long as you pay that premium. Therefore, the initial death benefit under your policy would be guaranteed for two years even though your policy value is insufficient to pay current monthly deductions. If you have borrowed against your policy or surrendered a portion of your policy, your initial death benefit will be reduced by the loan account balance and any surrendered amount. (See Death Benefit and Death Benefit Types)

Amount of Premium Payment

When you apply for your policy, you must decide how much premium to pay. Premium payments may be changed within the limits described. (See Premium Payments and Allocation of Premiums) If your policy lapses because your monthly premium deduction is larger than the total accumulation value, you may reinstate your policy. (See Policy Lapse and Reinstatement)

When you first receive your policy you will have 10 days to look it over. This is called the "right-to-examine" period. Use this time to review your policy and make sure it meets your needs. During this time period your initial premium payment will be allocated to the General Account. If you then decide you do not want your policy, all premium payments will be returned to you with no interest paid.

State laws where you live might change the number of days in the right-to-examine time period. (See Right to Examine Policy)

How Are My Premiums Processed?

You determine in the application what portions of net premiums are to be allocated to the General Account and/or the various subaccounts (or "sub-accounts", "Sub-Accounts") of the Separate Account. Your initial net premiums are automatically allocated to the Lincoln Life General Account. After the record date, the policy value and all subsequent net premiums will automatically be allocated according to your instructions. You may change future allocations of net premiums at any time without charge by notifying us in writing. Subject to certain restrictions, you may transfer amounts among the General Account and the subaccounts of the Separate Account.

Selection of Subaccounts

You must choose the subaccount(s) to which you want to allocate each net premium payment. The subaccounts make up the Separate Account, the "variable" part of the contract. Each subaccount invests exclusively in the shares of a specified fund (or "underlying fund", "Underlying Fund"). If the mutual fund(s) you select goes up in value, so does the cash value of your policy.

We create subaccounts and select the underlying funds, the shares of which are purchased by amounts allocated or transferred to the subaccounts, based on several factors, including, without limitation, asset class coverage, the strength of the manager's reputation and tenure, brand recognition, performance, and the capability and qualification of each sponsoring investment firm. Another factor we consider during the initial selection process is whether the fund (or an affiliate, investment advisor or distributor of the fund) being evaluated is an affiliate of ours


4


and whether we are compensated for providing administrative, marketing, and/or support services that would otherwise be provided by the fund, its investment advisor or its distributor. Some funds pay us significantly more than others and the amount we receive may be substantial. We often receive more revenue from an affiliated fund than one that is not affiliated with us. These factors give us an incentive to select a fund that yields more revenue, and this is often an affiliated fund.

We review each fund periodically after it is selected. Upon review, we may either close a fund or restrict allocation of additional purchase payments to the subaccount which purchases shares of a fund if we determine the fund no longer meets one or more of the selection factors discussed above and/or if the subaccount has not attracted significant policy owner assets. Alternatively, we may seek to substitute another fund which follows a similar investment objective as the underlying fund, subject to receipt of applicable regulatory approvals. Finally, when we develop a variable life insurance product in cooperation with a fund family or distributor (e.g., a "private label" product), we generally will include funds based on recommendations made by the fund family or distributor, whose selection criteria may differ from our selection criteria.

Each of the subaccounts of the Separate Account is invested solely in the shares of one of the funds available under the policies. Each of the funds, in turn, is an investment portfolio of one of the trusts or corporations listed below. A given fund may have a similar investment objective and principal investment strategy to those for another mutual fund managed by the same investment advisor or subadvisor. However, because of timing of investments and other variables, there will be no correlation between the two investments. Even though the management strategy and the objectives of the funds are similar, investment results may vary.

Shares of the underlying fund are available to insurance company separate accounts which fund variable annuity contracts and variable life insurance policies, including the policy described in this prospectus. Because shares are offered to separate accounts of both affiliated and unaffiliated insurance companies, it is conceivable that, in the future, it may not be advantageous for variable life insurance separate accounts and variable annuity separate accounts to invest in these underlying funds simultaneously since the interests of such owners or contract holders may differ. Although neither the Company nor the underlying funds currently foresees any such disadvantages either to variable life insurance or to variable annuity owners, each underlying fund's Board of Trustees/Directors has agreed to monitor events in order to identify any material irreconcilable conflicts which may possibly arise and to determine what action, if any, should be taken in response thereto. If such a conflict were to occur, the separate account might withdraw its investment in an underlying fund. This might force that underlying fund to sell the securities it holds at disadvantageous prices. Owners will not bear the attendant expense.

You may also choose to allocate all or part of your premium payment into the General Account. Premium payments allocated to the General Account become part of Lincoln Life's General Account, do not share the investment experience of the Separate Account and have a guaranteed minimum interest rate of 4% per year. For additional information see The General Account. Unlike assets held in the Company's Separate Account, of which the Sub-Accounts form a part, the assets of the General Account are subject to the general liabilities of the Company and, therefore, to the Company's general creditors.

What Subaccounts Are Available to Select?

You can allocate amounts to one or more subaccounts of the Separate Account. Your investment amount is the portion of the policy value allocated to the Separate Account. The Separate Account is Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G, established by Lincoln Life to receive and invest net premiums paid under the policy.

Certain of the underlying funds, including funds managed by an advisor affiliated with us, employ risk management strategies that are intended to control the underlying funds' overall volatility, and for some underlying funds, to also reduce the downside exposure of the underlying funds during significant market downturns. These risk management strategies could limit the upside participation of the underlying fund in rising equity markets relative to other funds.


5


The success of the advisor's risk management strategy depends, in part, on the advisor's ability to effectively and efficiently implement its risk forecasts and to manage the strategy for the underlying fund's benefit. There is no guarantee that the strategy can achieve or maintain the underlying fund's optimal risk targets. The underlying fund's performance may be negatively impacted in certain markets as a result of reliance on these strategies. In low volatility markets the volatility management strategy may not mitigate losses. In addition, the advisor may not be able to effectively implement the strategy during rapid or extreme market events. Such inefficiency in implementation could cause the underlying fund to lose more money than investing without the risk management strategy or not realize potential gains. Any one of these factors could impact the success of the volatility management strategy, and the underlying fund may not perform as expected. Also, several of the underlying funds may invest in non-investment grade, high-yield, and high-risk debt securities (commonly referred to as "junk bonds") as detailed in the individual underlying fund prospectus. For more information about the Underlying Funds and the investment strategies they employ, please refer to the underlying funds' current prospectuses.

You assume all of the investment performance risk for the Sub-Accounts you select. The amount of risk varies significantly among the Sub-Accounts. There can be no assurance that any of the stated investment objectives will be achieved. You should read each underlying fund's prospectus carefully before making investment choices. In particular, also please note, there can be no assurance that any money market fund will be able to maintain a stable net asset value per share. During extended periods of low interest rates, and due in part to Policy fees and expenses, the yields of any Sub-Account investing in a money market fund may become extremely low and possibly negative.

If an underlying fund imposes restrictions with respect to the acceptance of premium allocations or transfers, we reserve the right to reject an allocation or transfer request at any time that the underlying fund has notified us that such would not be accepted. We will notify you if your allocation or transfer request is or becomes subject to such restrictions.

The underlying funds and their investment advisors and objectives are listed below.

American Funds Insurance Series®:

Asset Allocation Fund — High total return (including income and capital gains) consistent with preservation of capital over the long term.

Global Growth Fund — Long-term growth of capital.

Global Small Capitalization Fund — Long-term capital growth.

Growth Fund — Growth of capital.

Growth-Income Fund — Long-term growth of capital and income.

High-Income Trust — To provide investors with a high level of current income; capital appreciation is the secondary objective.

International Fund — Long-term growth of capital.

The Bond Fund of America — To provide as high a level of current income as is consistent with the preservation of capital.

U.S. Government Securities Fund — To provide a high level of current income consistent with prudent investment risk and preservation of capital.

Ultra-Short Bond Fund — To provide the investors with current income, consistent with the maturity and quality standards applicable to the fund, and preservation of capital and liquidity.

Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust:

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund — Long-term capital appreciation.


6


LVIP Macquarie Mid Cap Value Fund — To maximize long-term capital appreciation.

For more detail, see the funds' prospectuses.

What Charges and Deductions Are Made From My Policy?

Lincoln Life may profit from any of these charges. The profit from any charges, including mortality and expense risk and cost of insurance charges, may be used for any purpose, including covering shortfalls from other charges. We deduct a premium charge of 5.95% from each premium payment. We make monthly deductions for administrative expenses (currently $6 per month) along with the cost of insurance and any riders that are placed on your policy. We make daily deductions against the Separate Account for mortality and expense risks. This charge is currently at an annual rate of .80%, and is guaranteed not to exceed .90%.

Each fund has its own management fee charge, also deducted daily. Each fund's expense levels will affect its investment results. The Fund charges and expenses table shows your current expense levels for each fund.

Each policy year you may make 12 transfers between subaccounts or between subaccounts and the General Account. For each transfer a charge of $10 is deducted from the amount transferred. This charge is currently being waived. (See Transfer Between Subaccounts)

The surrender charge is the amount retained by us if the policy is surrendered. This charge is deducted from policy value upon surrender of the policy or upon a voluntary reduction in specified amount during the first 16 policy years or during the 16 years following a requested increase in specified amount. The surrender charge is equal to the combination of the contingent deferred sales charge and the contingent deferred administrative charge. (See Charges and Deductions)

You may borrow within described limits under your policy. If you borrow, interest will be charged to the loan account. Currently, the interest rate is 6% in advance. Interest will be credited to the loaned amount. Currently, the interest credited is at an annual rate of 4.95%. Outstanding policy loans increase the risk of lapse. (See Loans) You may also surrender the policy totally or withdraw part of its value. Depending on the amount of premium you pay, there may be little, or no, cash value in your policy to borrow or surrender in the early years. Withdrawals may reduce the cash value and death benefit, and may increase the risk of lapse.

Buying Variable Life Insurance

The policies this prospectus offers are variable life insurance policies which provide death benefit protection. Investors not needing death benefit protection should consider other forms of investment, as there are extra costs and expenses of providing the insurance feature. Further, life insurance purchasers who are risk-averse or want more predictable premium levels of benefits may be more comfortable buying more traditional, non-variable life insurance. Variable life insurance is a flexible tool for financial and investment planning for persons needing death benefit protection, willing to assume risk, and to monitor investment allocation choices they have made. It is not meant to be used for speculation, arbitrage, viatical arrangements or other collective investments schemes. The policy may not be traded on any stock exchange and is not intended to be sold on any secondary market.

A customer may be able to pay a large single premium, using the policy primarily as a savings and investment vehicle for potential tax advantages. A parent or grandparent may find a policy on the life of a child or grandchild a useful gifting opportunity, or the basis of an investment program for the donee.

Sufficient premiums must always be paid to keep a policy inforce, and there is a risk of lapse if premiums are too low in relation to the insurance amount and if investment results are less favorable than anticipated.

Flexibility also results from being able to select, monitor and change investment choices within a policy. With the wide variety of subaccounts available, it is possible to fine tune an investment mix and change it to meet changing


7


personal objectives or investment conditions. Policy owners should monitor their investment allocation choices on an ongoing basis.

Variable life insurance has significant tax advantages under current tax law. A transfer of values from one subaccount to another within the policy generates no taxable gain or loss. Investment income and realized capital gains within a fund are automatically reinvested without being taxed to the policy owners. Policy values accumulate on a tax-deferred basis. These situations would normally result in immediate tax liabilities in the case of direct investment in mutual funds.

The ability of policy owners to access policy values is easily achieved with variable life insurance. Unless a policy has become a "modified endowment contract" (see Policies Which Are MECS), an owner can borrow policy values tax-free, without surrender charges, and at very low net interest cost. Policy loans can be a source of retirement income. By contrast, variable annuity withdrawals are generally taxable to the extent of accumulated income may be subject to a charge deducted from the policy value, a surrender charge, and will result in penalty tax if made before age 59 1/2.

Accumulated policy values may under limited circumstances also be part of the eventual death benefit payable. If a policy is heavily funded and investment performance is very favorable, the death benefit may increase because of tax law requirements that the death benefit be a certain multiple of policy value; depending on the Insured's age (see table under Policy Benefits). The death benefit is income-tax free and may, with proper estate planning, be estate-tax free.

Certain costs and expenses of variable life insurance ownership which are directly related to policy values (i.e. asset-based costs) are not unlike those incurred through investment in mutual funds or variable annuities. Surrender charges, which decrease over time, and premium taxes may be applicable to your policy. These charges are explained in more detail in Charges and Deductions. A significant additional cost of variable life insurance is the "cost of insurance" charge which is imposed on the "amount at risk" (approximately the death benefit less policy value). This charge increases with age, varies by rating classification, smoking status, and in most states by gender. The effect of these costs and expenses can be seen in illustrations in this prospectus (see Appendix C).

Risks of Your Policy

Fluctuating Investment Performance. A subaccount is not guaranteed and will increase and decrease in value according to investment performance of the Underlying Fund. Policy values in the subaccounts are not guaranteed. If you put money into the subaccounts, you assume all the investment risk on that money. A comprehensive discussion of each subaccount's and Underlying Fund's objective and risk is found in this prospectus and in each fund's prospectus, respectively. You should review these prospectuses before making your investment decision. Your choice of subaccounts and the performance of the funds underlying each subaccount will impact the policy's value and will impact how long the policy remains in force, its tax status, and the amount of premium you need to pay to keep the policy in force.

Policy Values in the Fixed Account. Premium payments and policy values allocated to the Fixed Account are held in the Company's General Account. Note that there are significant limitations on your right to transfer amounts in the Fixed Account and, due to these limitations, if you want to transfer the entire balance of the Fixed Account to one or more Sub-Accounts, it may take several years to do so. Therefore, you should carefully consider whether the Fixed Account meets your investment needs. We issue other types of insurance policies and financial products. In addition to any amounts we are obligated to pay in excess of policy value under the policy, we also pay our obligations under other types of insurance policies and financial products. Obligations under these policies and financial products that are funded by our General Account include (1) the obligation to keep the policy and any riders in force when the policy value is below zero and a no-lapse guarantee is in effect; (2) the obligation to pay or accelerate death benefits that exceed the Separate Account value; payment of these benefits and obligations is subject to our claims-paying ability and financial strength. We are also responsible for providing for all of the administrative services necessary in connection with the contracts (and bearing all of the associated expenses). Moreover, unlike assets held in the Separate Account, the assets of the General Account are subject to the general


8


liabilities of the Company and, therefore, to the Company's General Account creditors. In the event of an insolvency of receivership, payments we make from our General Account to satisfy claims under the policy would generally receive the same priority as our other owners' obligations.

The General Account is not segregated or insulated from the claims of the insurance company's creditors. Investors look to the financial strength of the insurance company's fulfillment of the contractual promises and guarantees we make to you in the policy, including those relating to the payment of death benefits. Therefore, guarantees provided by the insurance company as to benefits promised in the prospectus are subject to the claims-paying ability of the insurance company and are subject to the risk that the insurance company may not be able to cover or may default on its obligations under those guarantees.

For more information, please see "Lincoln Life, The Separate Account and The General Account" or "Transfer to and from the General Account" sections of this prospectus.

Unsuitable for Short-Term Investment. This policy is intended for long-term financial and investment planning for persons needing death benefit protection, and it is unsuitable for short-term goals. Your policy is not designed to serve as a vehicle for frequent trading.

Policy Lapse. Sufficient premiums must be paid to keep a policy in force. The policy will remain in force only so long as there is sufficient net accumulation value to permit Monthly Deductions to be covered. Accordingly, there is a risk of lapse if premiums are too small in relation to the insurance amount, if investment results of the subaccounts you have chosen are adverse or are less favorable than anticipated, or if the amount of outstanding policy loans or the amount of withdrawals rises too much.

Policy Loans. Outstanding policy loans and accrued interest reduce the policy's death benefit and accumulation value. If at any time the total debt against your policy, including interest accrued but not due, equals or exceeds the then current accumulation value less surrender charges, the policy will terminate subject to the conditions in the grace period provision. If your policy lapses while a loan is outstanding, the borrowed amount may be taxable to you to the extent your policy's value exceeds your basis in the policy. There may be adverse tax consequences in the event that your policy lapses with an outstanding loan balance.

Decreasing Death Benefit. Any outstanding policy loans or withdrawals will reduce your policy's death benefit. Depending upon your choice of Death Benefit Option, adverse performance of the subaccounts, which reduce the policy's accumulated value, will reduce the amount of death benefit that is payable.

Consequences of Surrender. Surrender Charges are assessed if you surrender your policy within the first 16 policy years or within 16 years of an increase in specified amount. Withdrawals are also subject to a charge. Surrenders or withdrawals may result in tax consequences. Depending on the amount of premium paid, there may be little or no Surrender Value available.

Tax Consequences. As noted in greater detail in the section headed "Tax Issues", the federal income tax treatment of life insurance is complex and the current tax treatment of life insurance may change. There are other federal tax consequences such as estate, gift and generation skipping transfer taxes, as well as state and local income, estate and inheritance tax consequences. You should always consult a tax adviser about the application of federal and state tax rules to your individual situation. The following discussion highlights tax risks in general, summary terms.

Tax Treatment Of Life Insurance Contracts. Your policy is designed to qualify for the favorable tax treatment afforded life insurance, including the exclusion of death benefits from income tax, the ability to take distributions and loans over the life of your policy, and the deferral of taxation of any increase in the value of your policy. If the policy does fail to qualify as life insurance, you will be subject to denial of those important benefits. In addition, if you pay more premiums than permitted under the federal tax law your policy will be classified as a Modified


9


Endowment Contract ("MEC") whereby only the tax benefits applicable to death benefits will apply and distributions will be subject to immediate taxation and to an added penalty tax.

Tax Law Compliance. We believe that the policy will satisfy the federal tax law definition of life insurance, and we will monitor your policy for compliance with the tax law requirements. The discussion of the tax treatment of your policy is based on the current policy, as well as the current rules and regulations governing life insurance. Please note that changes made to the policy, as well as any changes in the current tax law requirements, may affect the policy's qualification as life insurance or may have other tax consequences.

Cybersecurity and Business Interruption Risks. We rely heavily on interconnected computer systems and digital data to conduct our variable products business. Because our business is highly dependent upon the effective operation of our computer systems and those of our business partners, our business is vulnerable to disruptions from utility outages, and susceptible to operational and information security risks resulting from information systems failure (e.g., hardware and software malfunctions), and cyber-attacks, including ransomware and malware attacks. These risks include, among other things, the theft, loss, misuse, corruption and destruction of data maintained online or digitally, interference with or denial of service, attacks on websites and other operational disruption and unauthorized release of confidential customer information. The risk of cyber-attacks may be higher during periods of geopolitical turmoil. Such systems failures and cyber-attacks affecting us, any third-party administrator, the Underlying Funds, intermediaries and other affiliated or third-party service providers may adversely affect us and your policy value. For instance, systems failures and cyber-attacks may interfere with our processing of policy transactions, including the processing of orders from our website or with the Underlying Funds, impact our ability to calculate your policy value, cause the release and possible destruction of confidential customer or business information, impede order processing, subject us and/or our service providers and intermediaries to regulatory fines, litigation, and financial losses and/or cause reputational damage. Cyber security risks may also impact the issuers of securities in which the Underlying Funds invest, which may cause the funds underlying your Policy to lose value. There can be no assurance that we or the Underlying Funds or our service providers will avoid losses affecting your Policy due to system disruptions, cyber-attacks or information security breaches in the future.

In addition to cyber security risks, we are exposed to risks related to natural and man-made disasters, 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. They could also result in our business operations being less efficient than under normal circumstances and could lead to delays in our processing of policy-related transactions, including orders from policy owners. Disasters may negatively affect the computer and other systems on which we rely, impact our ability to calculate accumulation unit values, or have other possible negative impacts. They may also impact the issuers of securities in which the Underlying Funds invest, which may negatively affect the value of the Underlying Funds and the value of your Policy. There can be no assurance that we or the Underlying Funds or our service providers will be able to successfully avoid negative impacts associated with natural and man-made disasters.

Lincoln Life, The General Account and The Separate Account

Lincoln Life

The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company (Lincoln Life, the Company, we, us, our)(EIN 35-0472300), organized in 1905, is an Indiana-domiciled insurance company, engaged primarily in the direct issuance of life insurance policies and annuities. Lincoln Life is wholly owned by Lincoln National Corporation (LNC), a publicly held insurance and financial services holding company incorporated in Indiana. Lincoln Life is obligated to pay all amounts promised to owners under the policies. Death benefit proceeds and rider benefits to the extent those proceeds and benefits


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exceed the then current accumulation value of your policy are backed by the claims-paying ability of Lincoln Life. Our claims-paying ability is rated from time to time by various rating agencies. Information with respect to our current ratings is available by visiting our website at www.LincolnFinancial.com/investor. Those ratings do not apply to the Separate Account, but reflect the opinion of the rating agency companies as to our relative financial strength and ability to meet contractual obligations to our owners. Ratings can and do change from time to time.

Lincoln Financial Group is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation (New York Stock Exchange:LNC) and its affiliates. Through its affiliates, Lincoln Financial Group offers annuities, life, group life and disability insurance, 401(k) and 403(b) plans, and comprehensive financial planning and advisory services.

The General Account

The General Account is not segregated or insulated from the claims of the insurance company's creditors. Investors look to the financial strength of the insurance companies for these insurance guarantees. Therefore, guarantees provided by the insurance company as to benefits promised in the prospectus are subject to the claims-paying ability of the insurance company and are subject to the risk that the insurance company may not be able to cover or may default on its obligations under those guarantees. The General Account represents all of the general assets of the Company. Our general assets include all assets other than those held in separate accounts which we sponsor. We will invest the assets of the General Account in accordance with applicable law.

The Separate Account

We established Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G ("Account G") on May 25, 1988. Although the assets of the Separate Account are our property, the laws of Indiana under which the Separate Account was established provide that the Separate Account assets attributable to the policies are not chargeable with liabilities arising out of any other business of Lincoln Life. The assets of the Separate Account shall, however, be available to cover the liabilities of the General Account of Lincoln Life to the extent that the Separate Account's assets exceed its liabilities arising under the policies it supports. The assets of the Separate Account will be valued once daily at the close of regular trading (currently 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time) on each day the New York Stock Exchange is open and trading is unrestricted ("valuation day").

The Separate Account has been registered as an investment company under the 1940 Act and meets the definition of "separate account" under Federal Securities laws. Registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission does not involve supervision of the management or investment practices or policies of the Separate Account or Lincoln Life by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Separate Account is divided into twelve subaccounts. Each subaccount invests exclusively in shares of one of the following funds: One of ten portfolios of the American Funds Insurance Series, the LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund or the LVIP Macquarie Mid Cap Value Fund. The ten portfolios available in the American Funds Insurance Series are: Asset Allocation Fund, Global Growth Fund, Global Small Capitalization Fund, Growth Fund, Growth-Income Fund, High-Income Trust, International Fund, The Bond Fund of America, U.S. Government Securities Fund and Ultra-Short Bond Fund.

Income and both realized and unrealized gains or losses from the assets of the Separate Account are credited to or charged against the Separate Account without regard to the income, gains or losses arising out of any other business we may conduct. The funds are also invested in by variable annuity contract holders. Should we become aware of any material irreconcilable conflict, either potential or existing, between its variable annuity and variable life insurance contract owners, we have agreed to notify the Series' Board of Trustees and the funds' Board of Trustees and to remedy, at our own expense, any such conflict. Each series within the American Funds Insurance Series and the Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust has two classes of shares, designated as class 1 shares and class 2 shares. Class 1 or Standard Class and class 2 or Service Class, respectively differ in that class 2 and


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Service Class (but not class 1 or Standard Class) shares are subject to a 12b-1 plan for the payment by the fund of certain distribution-related expenses. Only class 1 and Standard Class shares are available under the policy.

There is no assurance that any of the available funds will achieve its stated objective.

Lincoln's business continuity and disaster recovery strategy employs system and telecommunication accessibility, system back-up and recovery, and employee safety and communication. The plan includes documented and tested procedures that will assist in ensuring the availability of critical resources and in maintaining continuity of operations during an emergency situation.

In accordance with money laundering laws and federal economic sanction policy, the Company may be required in a given instance to reject a premium payment and/or freeze a policyholder's account. This means we could refuse to honor requests for transfer, withdrawals, surrenders, loans, assignments, beneficiary changes or death benefit payments. Once frozen, monies would be moved from the Separate Account to a segregated interest-bearing account maintained for the policyholder, and held in that account until instructions are received from the appropriate Regulator.

Also, we may postpone payment whenever: (a) the New York Stock Exchange is closed, (b) trading on the New York Stock Exchange is restricted, (c) an emergency exists as a result of which disposal of securities held in the Variable Account is not reasonably practicable or is not reasonably practicable to determine the value of the Variable Account's net assets (d) if pursuant to SEC rules, an underlying money market fund suspends payment of redemption proceeds in connection with a liquidation of the fund, we may delay payment of any transfer, partial withdrawal, surrender, or death benefit from a money market sub-account until the fund is liquidated, or (e) during any other period when the SEC, by order, so permits for the protection of the Owner.

As an insurance company, we are required by state insurance regulation to hold a specified amount of reserves in order to meet all the contractual obligations of our General Account to our policyholders. In order to meet our claims-paying obligations, we regularly monitor our reserves to ensure we hold sufficient amounts to cover actual or expected policy and claim payments.

State insurance regulators also require insurance companies to maintain a minimum amount of capital in excess of reserves, which acts as a cushion in the event that the insurer suffers a financial impairment, based on the inherent risks in the insurer's operations. These risks include those associated with losses that we may incur as the result of defaults on the payment of interest or principal on assets held in our General Account, which include bonds, mortgages, general real estate investments, and stocks, as well as the loss in value of these investments resulting from a loss in their market value.

We encourage both existing and prospective policyholders to read and understand our financial statements. We prepare our financial statements on both a statutory basis and according to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Our audited GAAP financial statements, as well as the financial statements of the Separate Account, are located in the "Financial Statements" section of this prospectus. You may also obtain our audited statutory financial statements, any unaudited statutory financial statements that may be available as well as ratings information by visiting our website at www.LincolnFinancial.com/investor.

Principal Underwriter

Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. ("LFD"), 130 North Radnor Chester Road, Radnor, PA 19087, is the principal underwriter for the policies, which are offered continuously. LFD is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as a broker-dealer and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA"). The principal underwriter has overall responsibility for establishing a selling plan for the policies. LFD retains no underwriting commissions from the sale of the policies. The maximum total compensation


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we pay to any broker-dealer firm in the form of commission or expense reimbursement allowance, inclusive of any bonus incentives, with respect to policy sales is 140% of the first year Premium and generally 5% of all other Premiums paid.

Fund Participation Agreements

In order to make the funds in which the subaccounts invest available, Lincoln Life has entered into agreements with the Underlying Fund company and their advisers or distributors. In some of these agreements, we must perform certain services for the fund advisers or distributors. Such services include, but are not limited to, recordkeeping; aggregating and processing purchase and redemption orders; providing owners with statements showing their positions within the funds; processing dividend payments; providing sub-accounting services for shares held by owners and forwarding shareholder communications, such as proxies, shareholder reports, dividend and tax notices, and printing and delivering prospectuses and updates to owners. For these administrative functions, we may be compensated by the fund at annual rates based on a percentage of the assets attributable to the policies. These percentages are negotiated and vary with each fund. Some funds may compensate us significantly more than other funds and the amount we receive may be substantial. Additionally, a fund's adviser and/or distributor (or its affiliates) may provide us with certain services that assist us in the distribution of the contracts and may pay us and/or certain affiliates amounts to participate in sales meetings. We may also receive compensation for marketing and distribution which may come from 12b-1 fees, or be paid by the advisers or distributors.

Payments made out of the assets of the fund will reduce the amount of assets that otherwise would be available for investment, and will reduce the return on your investment. The dollar amount of future asset-based fees is not predictable because these fees are a percentage of the fund's average net assets, which can fluctuate over time. If, however, the value of the fund goes up, then so would the payment to us (or our affiliates). Conversely, if the value of the funds goes down, payments to us (or our affiliates) would decrease.

The Investment Advisors

Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation ("LFI") is the investment adviser for the LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund and the LVIP Macquarie Mid Cap Value Fund. LFI is a registered investment adviser and wholly-owned subsidiary of Lincoln Life. LFI's address is 150 N. Radnor-Chester Road, Radnor, PA 19087. LFI (or its predecessors) has served as an investment adviser to mutual funds for over 30 years.

Capital Research and Management Company, an experienced investment management organization founded in 1931, serves as the investment adviser to the American Funds Insurance Series, and other mutual funds, including the American Funds. Capital Research and Management Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Capital Group Companies, Inc. and is located at 333 South Hope Street, Los Angeles, California 90071.

Addition, Deletion, or Substitution of Investments

Lincoln Life does not have control over the funds and therefore cannot guarantee that any particular funds will be available for investment by the subaccounts. We reserve the right, subject to compliance with applicable law and prior approval of the Securities and Exchange Commission, to make additions to, deletions from, limit access to, or substitutions for the shares that are held by the Separate Account or that the Separate Account may purchase. Lincoln Life may make these changes (including substitutions) for some or all classes of policyowners.

We reserve the right to close a subaccount and to substitute shares of another open-end, registered investment company, if the shares are no longer available for investment, or if in the judgment of Lincoln Life further investment in any fund should become inappropriate in view of the purposes of the Separate Account. Lincoln Life will not substitute any shares attributable to an owner's interest in a subaccount of the Separate Account without notice and prior approval of the Commission, to the extent required by the 1940 Act or other applicable law. A substituted fund may have higher charges than the one it replaces. Nothing contained herein shall prevent the Separate


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Account from purchasing other securities for other series or classes of policies, or from permitting a conversion between series or classes of policies on the basis of requests made by policyowners.

Lincoln Life also reserves the right to establish additional subaccounts of the Separate Account, each of which would invest in a new fund or series of a fund, or in shares of another investment company, with a specified investment objective. Lincoln Life may eliminate or establish one or more subaccounts when marketing needs, tax or investment conditions warrant, or for any other reason in our sole discretion; and any new subaccounts may be made available to existing policyowners on a basis to be determined by Lincoln Life. Substitutions may be made with respect to existing investments or the investment of future premium payments, or both. We may close subaccounts to allocations of premium payments or contract value, or both, at any time in our sole discretion. The funds, which sell their shares to the subaccounts pursuant to participation agreements, also may terminate these agreements and discontinue offering their shares to the subaccounts.

In the event of any such substitution or change, Lincoln Life may by appropriate endorsement make such changes in the policy as may be necessary or appropriate to reflect such substitution or change. If deemed by Lincoln Life to be in the best interests of persons having voting rights under the policies, the Separate Account may be operated as a management company under the 1940 Act, it may be deregistered under that Act in the event such registration is no longer required, or it may be combined with other Lincoln Life separate accounts.

The Policy

Requirements for Issuance of a Policy

Individuals wishing to purchase a policy must send a completed application to our administrative mailing address. The minimum specified amount of a policy is $200,000. A policy will generally be issued only to insureds 80 years of age or younger (ages 81-85 by exception only) who supply satisfactory evidence of insurability to us. Acceptance is subject to our underwriting rules and, except in California, we reserve the right to reject an application for any reason.

Additional insurance on the life of other persons may be applied for by supplemental application. Approval of the additional insurance will be subject to evidence of insurability satisfactory to Lincoln Life.

Units and Unit Values

The value of policy monies invested in each subaccount is accounted for through the use of units and unit values. A unit is an accounting unit of measure used to calculate the value of an investment in a specified subaccount. A unit value is the dollar value of a unit in a specified subaccount on a specified valuation date. Whenever an amount is invested in a subaccount (due to net premium payments, loan repayments, or transfer of values into a subaccount), that amount purchases units in that subaccount. The number of units you purchase is determined by dividing the dollar amount of the transaction by the unit value on the day the transaction is made. Similarly, whenever an amount is redeemed from a subaccount (due to loans and loan interest charges, surrenders and surrender charges, withdrawals and withdrawal charges, transfers of values out of a subaccount and transfer charges, income tax deductions (if any), cost of insurance charges or monthly administrative charges), units are redeemed from that subaccount. The number of units redeemed is determined by dividing the dollar amount of the transaction by the unit value on the day the transaction is made.

The unit value is also used to measure the net investment results in a subaccount. The policy value on any valuation day is the sum of the values in each subaccount in which policy values are allocated plus any policy value allocated to the General Account. The value of each subaccount on each valuation day is determined by multiplying the number of units held by a policy in each subaccount by the unit value for that subaccount as determined for that valuation day. Units will be valued once daily as of the close of trading, normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern time, on each day that the New York Stock Exchange is open and trading is unrestricted (valuation day). On any day other than a valuation day, the unit value will not change. A valuation period is the period starting at the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange on a valuation day, and ending at the close of trading on the next valuation day.


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The unit value for a subaccount on a specified valuation day is determined by dividing the value of all assets owned by that subaccount, net of the subaccount's liabilities (including any accrued but unpaid daily mortality and expense risk charges), by the total number of units held by policies in that subaccount. Net investment results do not increase or decrease the number of units held by the subaccount.

In certain circumstances, and when permitted by law, it may be prudent for us to use a different standard industry method for this calculation, called the net investment factor method. We will achieve substantially the same result using either method.

Premium Payment and Allocation of Premiums

Subject to certain limitations, you have considerable flexibility in determining the frequency and amount of premiums. During the first two policy years, the policy will lapse unless the total of all premiums paid (minus any partial withdrawals and minus any outstanding loans) is at all times at least equal to the death Benefit Guarantee monthly premium times the number of months since the initial policy date (including the current month) or the net cash surrender value of the policy is greater than zero. Payment of the death benefit guarantee monthly premium during the first two policy years will guarantee that the policy will remain in force for the first two policy years despite negative net cash surrender value (see Death Benefit Guarantee), but continued payment of such premiums will not guarantee that the policy will remain in force thereafter. The amount of the death benefit guarantee monthly premium is based on the base minimum premium per $1,000 of specified amount (determined by the insured's age, gender, and rating class) and includes additional amounts to cover charges for additional benefits, monthly administrative charges, and extra cost of insurance charges for substandard risks. A table of base minimum premiums per $1,000 of specified amount is in Appendix A.

You may designate in the application one of several ways to pay the death benefit guarantee monthly premium. You may elect to pay the first twelve months of premiums in full prior to commencement of insurance coverage. Alternatively, you may elect to pay a level planned periodic premium on a quarterly or semi-annual basis sufficient to meet the premium requirements. Premiums may also be paid monthly if paid by a pre-authorized check. Premiums, other than the initial premium, are payable only at our administrative mailing address.

Each owner will also define a planned periodic premium schedule that provides for payment of a level premium at fixed intervals for a specified period of time. You are not required to pay premiums in accord with this schedule. Furthermore, you have flexibility to alter the amount, frequency, and the time period over which planned periodic premiums are paid. Failure to pay planned periodic premiums will not of itself cause the policy to lapse, nor will the payment of planned periodic premiums equal to or in excess of the required death benefit guarantee monthly premiums guarantee that the policy will remain in force beyond the first two policy years. Unless the policy is being continued under the death benefit guarantee, (see Death Benefit Guarantee), the policy will lapse any time outstanding loans exceed policy value less surrender charge or policy value less outstanding loans and less surrender charge is insufficient to pay certain monthly deductions, and a grace period expires without a sufficient payment. (see Policy Lapse and Reinstatement.) Subject to the minimum premiums required to keep the policy in force and the maximum premium limitations established under section 7702 of the Code, you may make unscheduled premium payments at any time in any amount during the lifetime of the insured until the maturity date. Monies received that are not designated as premium payments will be assumed to be loan repayments if there is an outstanding loan on the policy; otherwise, such monies will be assumed to be an unscheduled premium payment.

Premium Limitations. In no event can the total of all premiums paid exceed the current maximum premium limitations established for life insurance policies to meet the definition of life insurance, as set forth under Section 7702 of the Code. Those limitations will vary by issue age, gender, classification, benefits provided, and even policy duration. If at any time a premium is paid which would result in total premiums exceeding the current maximum premium limitation, we will only accept that portion of the premium which will make total premiums equal that amount. Any part of the premium in excess of that amount will first be applied to reduce any outstanding loan


15


on the policy, and any further excess will be refunded to the owner within 7 days of receipt. No further premiums will be accepted until allowed by subsequent maximum premium limitations.

The tax status of a policy and the tax treatment of distributions from a policy are dependent in part on whether or not the policy becomes a Modified Endowment Contract ("MEC"). A policy will become a MEC if premiums paid into the policy cause the policy to fail the 7-pay test set forth under Section 7702A of the Code. We will monitor premiums paid into each policy after the date of this prospectus to determine when a premium payment will exceed the 7-pay test and cause the policy to become a MEC. If you have given us instructions that the policy should not be allowed to become a MEC, any premiums in excess of the 7-pay limitation will first be applied to reduce any outstanding loan on the policy, and any further excess will be refunded to you within 7 days of receipt. If you have not given us instructions to the contrary, however, the premium will be paid into the policy and a letter of notification of MEC status will be sent to the owner. The letter of notification will include the available options, if any, for remedying the MEC status of the policy.

Net Premiums. The net premium equals the premium paid less the percent of premium charge (see Percent of Premium Charge.)

Allocation of Net Premiums. In the application for a policy, you can allocate all or part of the net premiums to the General Account and the various subaccounts of the Separate Account. Notwithstanding the allocation in the application, all net premiums received prior to the record date will initially be allocated to the General Account. Net premiums received prior to the record date will be credited to the policy on the later of the policy date or the date the premium is received. The record date is the date the policy is recorded on the books of Lincoln Life as an in-force policy, and may coincide with the policy date. Ordinarily, the policy will be recorded as in-force within three business days after the later of the date we receive the last outstanding requirement or the date of underwriting approval. Net premiums will continue to be allocated to the General Account until the record date. When the assets of the Separate Account are next valued following the record date, the value of the policy's assets in the General Account will automatically be transferred to the General Account and the subaccounts of the Separate Account in accord with your percentage allocation in the application. No charge will be imposed for this initial transfer. Net premiums paid after the record date will be credited to the policy on the date they are received and will be allocated in accord with your instructions in the application. The minimum percentage of each premium that may be allocated to the General Account or to any subaccount of the Separate Account is 10%; percentages must be in whole numbers. The allocation of future net premiums may be changed without charge at any time by providing written notification on a form suitable to us. You can also make arrangements with us to allow the allocation of future net premiums to be changed upon telephone request.

The value of the amount allocated to subaccounts of the Separate Account will vary with the investment experience of these subaccounts and the owner bears the entire investment risk. The value of the amount allocated to the General Account will earn a current interest rate guaranteed to be at least 4.0%. You should periodically review their allocations of premiums and values in light of market conditions, interest rates, and overall estate planning requirements.

Dollar Cost Averaging Program

You may wish to make monthly transfers from the General Account to one or more of the subaccounts over a 12, 24, or 36-month period through the Dollar Cost Averaging ("DCA") program. Under the program, at least $5,000 is to be transferred from the General Account to the chosen subaccounts in accord with the most recent premium allocation. The transfers continue until the end of the DCA period or until the policy value in the General Account has been exhausted, whichever occurs sooner. DCA may also be terminated upon written request by the owner.

DCA has the effect, when purchases are made at fluctuating prices, of reducing the aggregate average cost per unit to less than the average of the unit values on the same purchase dates. However, participation in the DCA program does not assure the owner of a greater return on purchases under the program, nor will it prevent or necessarily alleviate losses in a declining market.


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There are no charges associated with the DCA program. In order to participate in (or terminate participation in) the DCA program, the owner must complete a written request on a form suitable to us.

Effective Date

For all coverage provided in the original application, the effective date will be the policy date, provided the policy has been delivered and the initial premium has been paid prior to death and prior to any change in health or any other factor affecting insurability of the insured as shown in the application. The policy date is ordinarily the earlier of the date the full initial premium is received or the date on which the policy is approved for issue by Lincoln Life. It is stated in the policy specifications, and policy anniversaries are measured from this date.

For any increase, the effective date will be the first monthly anniversary day (the same date each month as the policy date) on or next following the day the application for the increase is approved.

For any insurance that has been reinstated, the effective date will be the first monthly anniversary day on or next following the day the application for reinstatement is approved.

Once your policy is in force, the effective date of payments, forms and requests you send us is usually determined by the day and time we receive the item in proper form at the mailing address that appears in this prospectus. Planned periodic premium payments, loan requests, transfer requests, loan payments or withdrawal or surrender requests that we receive in proper form before 4:00 p.m. Eastern time on a business day will normally be effective as of the end of that day, unless the transaction is scheduled to occur on another business day. If we receive your payment or request on or after 4:00 p.m. Eastern time on a business day, your payment or request will be effective as of the end of the next business day. If a scheduled transaction falls on a day that is not a business day, we'll process it as of the end of the next business day. There may be circumstances under which the New York Stock Exchange may close before 4:00 p.m. In such circumstances transactions requested after such early closing will be processed using the accumulation unit value computed the following trading day.

Other forms, notices and requests are normally effective as of the next business day after we receive them in proper form, unless the transaction is scheduled to occur on another business day. Change of owner and beneficiary forms are effective as of the day you sign the change form, once we receive them in proper form.

Right-to-Examine Policy

A policy may be returned to Lincoln Life for cancellation on or before 10 days after delivery to the owner (or a greater number of days if required by your state). This is called the right-to-examine period. If the policy is returned for cancellation within the right-to-examine period, we will return any premium payments. However, if a premium payment was made by check, there may be a delay until the check clears. Any premium payments we receive before the end of the right-to-examine period will be held in the Money Market subaccount.

Policy Termination

All coverage under the policy will terminate when any one of the following occurs:

1)  the grace period ends without payment of required premium, and the policy is not being continued under the death benefit guarantee provision,

2)  the policy is surrendered,

3)  the insured dies, or

4)  the policy matures.

Continuation of Coverage

Your policy gives you the option to elect an amendment to extend the original maturity date in the policy. If elected, any policy benefit or maturity value will not be paid on the original maturity date and the amendment will provide for


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an "extended maturity date". The extended maturity date will be the earlier of the date you surrender the policy or the date of death of the insured, or the surviving insured if your policy is a survivorship policy.

If the policy is in force at the original maturity date the following changes will occur:

1)  The death benefit will be equal to the maturity value (may also be defined as "policy value" or "cash value" in accordance with the original maturity date provisions in your policy) less indebtedness/debt;

2)  No further deductions for policy charges, including charges for cost of insurance, will be taken;

3)  Interest will continue to be credited to policy values;

4)  No further premium payments will be accepted, except for loan repayments;

5)  Any Separate Account/Variable Account value will be transferred to the Fixed Account;

6)  Policy loans may continue to be taken and policy loan interest will accrue on any new or existing loans as stated in your policy;

7)  Any new loan will be taken from the Fixed Account;

8)  All riders and amendments attached to your policy will continue subject to the requirements of each rider and amendment attached to your policy.

The policy may not qualify as life insurance after the maturity date. The policy may be subject to tax consequences. Before you sign and return the amendment you should consult a tax advisor.

Charges and Deductions

Charges will be deducted in connection with the policy to compensate Lincoln Life for:

1)  providing the insurance benefit set forth in the policy and any optional insurance benefits added by rider;

2)  administering the policy;

3)  assuming certain risks in connection with the policy;

4)  incurring expenses in distributing the policy.

We deduct charges in connection with the policy to compensate us for providing the policy's insurance benefit, administering the policy, assuming certain risks under the policy and for sales related expenses we incur. Lincoln Life may profit from any of these charges. The profit from any charges, including mortality and expense risk and cost of insurance charges, may be used for any purpose, including covering shortfalls from other charges.

The nature and amount of these charges are described more fully below.

Percent of Premium Charge

A sales charge of 5.95% is deducted from each premium paid.

Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (CDSC)

During the first 16 policy years, the policy value is subject to a contingent deferred sales charge which is deducted only if the policy lapses or is surrendered. During the first policy year, the CDSC is approximately equal to 30% of the required base minimum premium for the designated specified amount. The base minimum premium required varies with the age, gender, and rating class of the insured. To determine the first year CDSC per $1,000 of specified amount, multiply the base minimum found in the table of base minimum premiums (see Appendix A) times 30%.

During the second policy year, the CDSC is approximately equal to 30% of the base minimum premium required for the first two policy years for the designated specified amount. To determine the second year CDSC per $1,000 of specified amount, multiply the base minimum premium for the first two years times 30%. If the resulting CDSC


18


exceeds $22.00 per $1,000 of specified amount, the CDSC is reduced to $22.00 per $1,000 of specified amount. Furthermore, upon surrender of the policy at any time during the first two policy years, the maximum total sales charges actually deducted (percent of premium charge plus CDSC) will never exceed the following maximum: 30% of premiums paid up to the first 12 death benefit guarantee monthly premiums, plus 10% of premiums paid up to the next 12 death benefit guarantee monthly premiums, plus 5.95% of premiums paid in excess of those amounts.

During the third and subsequent policy years, the CDSC will equal the CDSC during the second policy year times the percent indicated in the table below.

Contingent Deferred Administrative Charge (CDAC)

During the first 16 policy years, the policy value is subject to a contingent deferred administrative charge which is deducted only if the policy lapses or is surrendered. This charge is to recover costs for underwriting, issue and initial administration of the policy. During the first policy year, the CDAC is approximately equal to 30% of the required base minimum premium for the designated specified amount. To determine the first year CDAC per $1,000 of specified amount, multiply the base minimum premium found in the table of base minimum premiums (see Appendix A) times 30%.

During the second policy year, the CDAC is approximately equal to 30% of the base minimum premium required for the first two policy years for the designated specified amount. To determine the second year CDAC per $1,000 of specified amount, multiply the base minimum premium for the first two years times 30%. If the resulting CDAC exceeds $22.00 per $1,000 of specified amount, the CDAC will be reduced to $22.00 per $1,000 of specified amount.

During the third and subsequent policy years the CDAC will equal the CDAC during the second policy year times the percent indicated in the table below.

An additional CDAC will be imposed under the policy in the event of each requested increase in specified amount. The additional CDAC is an amount per $1,000 of increased specified amount and will be deducted upon the surrender of the policy at any time during the 16 years following such increase. The amount of the CDAC will be equal to the CDAC that would apply to a newly issued policy at the age of the insured at the time of the increase. The percentage of the CDAC applicable in any year after the increase is shown in the following table, where policy year is calculated from the date of the increase.

During policy year
(or after an increase)

 

Percent of CDSC and CDAC
to be deducted

 

3, 4 or 5

 

100%

 

6

 

95

 

7

 

90

 

8

 

85

 

9

 

80

 

10

 

70

 

11

 

60

 

12

 

50

 

13

 

40

 

14

 

30

 

15

 

20

 

16

 

10

 

When you request an increase in the specified amount, no additional premium is required provided that the current net cash surrender value is sufficient to cover the CDAC associated with the increase, as well as the increase in the


19


cost of insurance charges which result from the increase in specified amount. However, if the net cash surrender value is insufficient to cover such costs, additional premium will be required for the increase to be granted, and the percent of premium charge will be deducted from that additional premium.

Surrender Charge

The total of all contingent deferred sales charges and all contingent deferred administrative charges are collectively referred to as the surrender charge. The surrender charges for the first 5 years are shown in Appendix B. For surrender charges during policy years 6 through 16 the values shown in Appendix B should be multiplied by the percentages given in the table under Charges and deductions above. For increases in the specified amount, additional surrender charges apply. During the first year after an increase, the additional surrender charges are calculated by multiplying the values in Appendix B by one-fourth. During years 2-5 after an increase, the values in Appendix B should be multiplied by one-half. During years 6 through 16 after an increase, the values in Appendix B are multiplied by one-half and by the percentage given in the table above. Surrender charges are higher in the earlier years of the policy reducing its net cash surrender value. Thus if you surrender the policy in the early years there may be little or no money to return to you.

Monthly Deductions

On the policy date and on each monthly anniversary day following, deductions will be made from the policy value. These deductions are of two types: a monthly administrative charge and a monthly cost of insurance charge. Ordinarily, the monthly deductions are deducted from the policy value in proportion to the values in the General Account and the subaccounts.

Cost of Insurance Charges

On the policy date and on each monthly anniversary day following, cost of insurance charges will be deducted from the policy value. Ordinarily, the cost of insurance charges are deducted in proportion to the values in the General Account and the subaccounts.

The cost of insurance charges depend upon a number of variables, and the cost for each policy month can vary from month to month. It will depend, among other things, on the amount for which Lincoln Life is at risk to pay in the event of the insured's death. On each monthly anniversary day, we will determine the monthly cost of insurance for the following month as equal to:

a)  the death benefit on the monthly anniversary day; divided by

b)  1.0032737 (the monthly interest factor equivalent to an annual interest rate of 4%); minus,

c)  the policy value on the monthly anniversary day without regard to the cost of insurance; divided by

d)  1,000; the result multiplied by

e)  the applicable cost of insurance rate per $1,000 as described below.

The cost of insurance rates are based on the gender, attained age (age of the insured on a policy anniversary), and rate class of the person insured. In states requiring unisex rates, in federally qualified pension plan sales, in employer sponsored situations and in any other situation where unisex rates are required by law, the cost of insurance rates are not based on gender. The monthly cost of insurance rates may be changed by Lincoln Life from time to time. A change in the cost of insurance rates will apply to all persons of the same attained age, gender and rate class and whose policies have been in effect for the same length of time. The cost of insurance rates will not exceed those described in the table of guaranteed maximum insurance rates shown in the policy. For attained ages under sixteen, these rates are based on the 1980 Commissioner's Standard Ordinary Mortality Table, age last birthday; or for attained ages sixteen and over, depending on the smoking status of the insured, these rates are based on the 1980 Commissioner's Standard Ordinary Mortality Table, age last birthday, or the 1980 Commissioner's Standard Ordinary Smoker Mortality Table, age last birthday. Standard rate classes have guaranteed rates which do not exceed 100% of the applicable table.


20


The rate class of an insured will affect the cost of insurance rate. We currently place insureds into a standard rate class or rate classes involving a higher mortality risk. In an otherwise identical policy, insureds in the standard rate class will have a lower cost of insurance than those in the rate class with the higher mortality risk. The standard rate class is also divided into four categories: preferred nonsmoker, standard nonsmoker, preferred smoker, and standard smoker. Insureds who are standard nonsmoker or preferred nonsmoker will generally incur a lower cost of insurance than those insureds who are in the smoker rate classes. Likewise, insureds who are preferred smoker or preferred nonsmoker will generally incur a lower cost of insurance than similarly situated insureds who are standard smoker or standard nonsmoker respectively.

Monthly Administrative Charge

A monthly administrative charge of $6 is deducted from the policy value each month the policy is in force to compensate us for continuing administration of the policy, premium billings, overhead expenses, and other miscellaneous expenses. We do not anticipate any profits from this charge. This charge is guaranteed not to increase during the life of the policy.

Fund Charges and Expenses

The investment advisor for each of the funds deducts a daily charge as a percent of the net assets in each fund as an asset management charge. It is estimated that, in the aggregate, such fees and expenses for the funds, expressed as an annual percentage of each fund's net assets, will range from 0.23% to 0.66%. These charges and other fund expenses have the effect of reducing the investment results credited to the subaccounts. The following table shows the annual fund fees and expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Asset Fund

  Management
Fee
(1)
  Other
Expenses
(1)
  Total Annual
Fund Operating
Expenses
Without
Waivers or
Reductions
(1)
  Total
Waivers and
Reductions
(1)
  Total Fund
Operating
Expenses
with
Waivers or
Reductions
(1)
 

American Funds Insurance Series:

 

Asset Allocation

   

.27

%

   

.03

%

   

.30

%

   

.00

%

   

.30

%

 

Global Growth

   

.48

%

   

.04

%

   

.52

%

   

.11

%

   

.41

%

 

Global Small Capitalization

   

.65

%

   

.05

%

   

.70

%

   

.04

%

   

.66

%

 

Growth

   

.31

%

   

.03

%

   

.34

%

   

.00

%

   

.34

%

 

Growth-Income

   

.25

%

   

.03

%

   

.28

%

   

.00

%

   

.28

%

 

High-Income Trust

   

.40

%

   

.04

%

   

.44

%

   

.12

%

   

.32

%

 

International

   

.48

%

   

.05

%

   

.53

%

   

.00

%

   

.53

%

 

The Bond Fund of America

   

.35

%

   

.03

%

   

.38

%

   

.15

%

   

.23

%

 

U.S. Government Securities

   

.29

%

   

.04

%

   

.33

%

   

.07

%

   

.26

%

 

Ultra-Short Bond

   

.26

%

   

.05

%

   

.31

%

   

.00

%

   

.31

%

 

Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust:

 
LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core
Equity 1
   

.34

%

   

.07

%

   

.41

%

   

.01

%

   

.40

%

 

LVIP Macquarie Mid Cap Value

   

.36

%

   

.07

%

   

.43

%

   

.00

%

   

.43

%

 

(1)  Expressed as an annual percentage of each fund's average daily net assets.

See the funds' prospectuses for more complete information about the expenses of the funds.


21


Take note that during extended periods of low interest rates, the yields of money market subaccounts (Cash Management) may become extremely low, and possibly negative.

Mortality and Expense Risk Charge

Lincoln Life deducts a daily charge as a percent of the assets of the Separate Account as a mortality and expense risk charge. This charge has the effect of reducing gross investment results credited to the subaccounts. The daily rate currently charged is .0021917% (which is approximately equal to an annual rate of .80%) of the value of the net assets of the Separate Account. This deduction may increase or decrease, but is guaranteed not to exceed .90% in any policy year.

The mortality risk assumed is that insureds may live for a shorter period of time than estimated and, therefore, death benefits will be payable sooner than expected. The expense risk assumed is that expenses incurred in issuing and administering the policies will be greater than estimated.

Other Charges

Two other miscellaneous charges are occasionally incurred: a withdrawal charge and a transfer charge. The withdrawal charge is incurred when the owner of the policy requests a withdrawal from the policy value; the charge is deducted from the withdrawn amount and the balance is paid to the owner. Withdrawals may be made any time after the first policy year, but only one withdrawal may be made per year. The withdrawal charge is $10 for each withdrawal.

The transfer charge is incurred when the owner requests that funds be transferred from one subaccount or the General Account to another subaccount or the General Account. The transfer charge is $10, and is deducted from the amount transferred; however, the transfer charge is currently being waived for all transfers.

We also reserve the right to deduct from the policy value any amounts charged for federal or other governmental income taxes that might result from a change in the current tax laws. Current tax laws do not charge income taxes on the policy value.

Reduction of Charges

The percent of premium charge, surrender charge, and the monthly administrative charge set forth in this prospectus may be reduced because of special circumstances that result in lower sales, administrative, or mortality expenses. For example, special circumstances may exist in connection with sales to Lincoln Life policyowners, or sales to employees of Lincoln Life. The amounts of any reductions will reflect the reduced sales effort and administrative costs resulting from, or the differences in expected death claims as a result of, the special circumstances. Reductions will not be unfairly discriminatory against any person, including the affected policyowners and owners of all other policies funded by the Separate Account.

Term Conversion Credits

We currently have a term conversion program which gives premium credits to the policy if the owner is converting from a term insurance policy that meets certain requirements. Term insurance policies issued by Lincoln Life or by any other life insurance company may be considered for conversion to the policy under this program and for possible term conversion credits. Except for guaranteed term conversion privileges provided under some Lincoln Life term insurance policies or otherwise provided by special agreement, all term insurance policy conversions are subject to evidence of insurability satisfactory to us. All conversion credits are deposited in the policy without the percent of premium charge. The amount of the term conversion credits and the requirements for qualification for those credits is subject to change by Lincoln Life, but such changes will not be unfairly discriminatory against any person, including the affected policyowners and owners of all other policies funded by the Separate Account.


22


Policy Benefits

Death Benefit and Death Benefit Types

As long as the policy remains in force (see Policy Lapse and Reinstatement), Lincoln Life will, upon proof of the insured's death, pay the death benefit proceeds of the policy to the named beneficiary in accordance with the designated death benefit type. The proceeds may be paid in cash or under one or more of the payment options set forth in the policy. (See Proceeds and Payment Options.) The death benefit proceeds payable under the designated death benefit type will be increased by any unearned loan interest, and will be reduced by any outstanding loan and any due and unpaid charges. (See Proceeds and Payment Options.) These proceeds will be further increased by any additional insurance on the insured provided by rider.

The specified amount, which may not be less than $200,000, is the amount requested by the policy owner at the time of application for insurance. This amount, in combination with a death benefit option, will define the death benefit. The specified amount is a field on the Policy Specification Page.

After receipt at our Administrative Office of proof of death of the insured and any other necessary claims requirements, the death benefit proceeds will be paid. Payment of the death benefit proceeds may be delayed if your policy is contested or if separate account values cannot be determined. You may choose from the following payment methods: 1) a lump sum; 2) a settlement option; or 3) a SecureLine® interest-bearing checking account if the proceeds are $50,000 or greater. The default payment method is a lump sum in one single check.

If you elect SecureLine® , an interest-bearing account is established from the proceeds payable on a policy administered by us. The recipient is the owner of the account, and is the only one authorized to transfer proceeds from the account. Instead of mailing the recipient a check, we will send a checkbook so that the recipient will have access to the account by writing a check. The recipient may choose to leave the proceeds in this account, or may begin writing checks right away. If the recipient decides he or she wants the entire proceeds immediately, the recipient may write one check for the entire account balance. The recipient can write as many checks as he or she wishes. We may at our discretion set minimum withdrawal amounts per check. The total of all checks written cannot exceed the account balance. The SecureLine® account is part of our General Account. It is not a bank account and it is not insured by the FDIC or any other government agency. As part of our General Account, it is subject to the claims of our creditors. We receive a benefit from all amounts left in the SecureLine® account.

Interest credited in the SecureLine® account is taxable as ordinary income in the year such interest is credited, and is not tax deferred. We recommend that the recipient consult a tax advisor to determine the tax consequences associated with the payment of interest on amounts in the SecureLine® account. The balance in the recipient's SecureLine® account starts earning interest the day the account is opened and will continue to earn interest until all funds are withdrawn. Interest is compounded daily and credited to the recipient's account on the last day of each month. The interest rate will be updated monthly. The minimum interest rate is 1% and we may increase the rate from time to time. The interest rate credited to the recipient's SecureLine® account may be more or less than the rate earned on funds held in Lincoln's General Account.

There are no monthly fees. The recipient may be charged a fee for a stop payment or if a check is returned for insufficient funds.

The policy offers two death benefit types: Option 1, basic coverage, and Option 2, basic plus policy value coverage. Generally, the owner designates the death benefit type in the application. The owner may change the death benefit type at any time. (See Policy Changes.)

Option 1. The death benefit is calculated as the greater of the specified amount of the policy or a specified percentage of the policy value on or prior to the date of death. The specified percentage at any time is based on the attained age of the insured as of the beginning of the policy year.


23


Option 2. The death benefit is equal to the greater of the specified amount plus the policy value of the policy or a specified percentage of the policy value on or prior to the date of death. The specified percentage at any time is based on the attained age of the insured as of the beginning of the policy year.

Under Option 1 basic coverage, the net amount at risk decreases as the policy value increases. (The net amount at risk is equal to the death benefit less the policy value.) Under Option 2 basic plus policy value coverage, the net amount at risk remains constant, so the cost of insurance deduction will be relatively higher on Option 2 basic plus policy value coverage than on Option 1 basic coverage. As a result, policy values under Option 1 basic coverage tend to increase faster than under Option 2 basic plus policy value coverage, assuming favorable investment performance. Because of this, policyowners that are more interested in achieving higher policy values more quickly (assuming favorable investment experience) would be more likely to select Option 1 basic coverage. In contrast, the death benefit under Option 2 will increase or decrease as the policy value increases or decreases. Consequently, policyowners who are more interested in increasing total death benefits (assuming favorable investment experience) would be more likely to select Option 2 basic plus policy value coverage.

The table below lists the specified percentage applicable to the given attained age.

Attained age

  Specified
percentage
 

Attained age

  Specified
percentage
 

Attained age

  Specified
percentage
 
40 or younger   250%  

59

  134%  

91

  104%  

41

 

243

 

60

 

130

 

92

 

103

 

42

 

236

 

61

 

128

 

93

 

102

 

43

 

229

 

62

 

126

 

94

 

101

 

44

 

222

 

63

 

124

  95 or older  

100

 

45

 

215

 

64

 

122

         

46

 

209

 

65

 

120

         

47

 

203

 

66

 

119

         

48

 

197

 

67

 

118

         

49

 

191

 

68

 

117

         

50

 

185

 

69

 

116

         

51

 

178

 

70

 

115

         

52

 

171

 

71

 

113

         

53

 

164

 

72

 

111

         

54

 

157

 

73

 

109

         

55

 

150

 

74

 

107

         

56

 

146

 

75

 

105

         

57

 

142

 

through

             

58

 

138

 

90

             

Examples. For both examples, assume that the insured dies at or under the age of 40 and that there is no outstanding policy loan.

Under Option 1, a policy with a specified amount of $250,000 will generally pay $250,000 in life insurance death benefits. However, because life insurance death benefits cannot be less than 250% (the applicable specified percentage) of policy value, any time the policy value of this policy exceeds $100,000, the life insurance death benefit will exceed the $250,000 specified amount. If the policy value equals or exceeds $100,000, each additional dollar added to the policy value will increase the life insurance death benefit by $2.50. Thus, for a policy with a specified amount of $250,000 and a policy value of $200,000, the beneficiary will be entitled to a life insurance death benefit of $500,000 (250% x $200,000); a policy value of $300,000 will yield a life insurance death benefit of $750,000 (250% x $300,000); a policy value of $500,000 will yield a life insurance death benefit of $1,250,000 (250% x $500,000). Similarly, so long as policy value exceeds


24


$100,000, each dollar taken out of policy value will reduce the life insurance death benefit by $2.50. If at any time the policy value multiplied by the specified percentage is less than the specified amount, the life insurance death benefit will equal the specified amount of the policy.

Under Option 2, a policy with a specified amount of $250,000 will generally pay life insurance death benefits of $250,000 plus policy value. Thus, for example, a policy with a specified amount of $250,000 and policy value of $50,000 will yield a life insurance death benefit equal to $300,000 ($250,000 + $50,000); a policy value of $100,000 will yield a life insurance death benefit of $350,000 ($250,000 + $100,000). The life insurance death benefit cannot, however, be less than 250% (the applicable specified percentage) of policy value. As a result, if the policy value of the policy exceeds $166,667, the life insurance death benefit will be greater than the specified amount plus policy value. Each additional dollar added to policy value above $166,667 will increase the life insurance death benefit by $2.50. A policy with a policy value of $200,000 will therefore have a life insurance death benefit of $500,000 (250% x $200,000); a policy value of $500,000 will yield a life insurance death benefit of $1,250,000 (250% x $500,000); a policy value of $1,000,000 will yield a life insurance death benefit of $2,500,000 (250% x $1,000,000).

Similarly, any time policy value exceeds $166,667, each dollar withdrawn from policy value will reduce the life insurance death benefit by $2.50. If at any time, however, policy value multiplied by the specified percentage is less than the specified amount plus policy value, then the life insurance death benefit will be the specified amount plus policy value.

The above examples describe scenarios which include favorable investment performance. In addition, the applicable percentage of 250% that is used is for ages 40 or younger. Because the applicable percentage decreases as the attained age increases, the impact of the applicable percentage on the death benefit payment levels will be lessened as the attained age progresses beyond age 40.

Death Benefit Guarantee

We expect payment of the required death benefit guarantee monthly premiums will be sufficient, when combined with net investment results, to pay for all charges to the policy during the first two policy years, and thereby provide life insurance protection on the insured for that period. In some situations, however, the combination of poor net investment results and monthly deductions could result in the net cash surrender value being reduced to zero. In such situations, we will continue the policy in force for the first two policy years, provided the death benefit guarantee monthly premium requirement continues to be met taking into consideration loans or partial withdrawals. Lincoln Life makes no charge for this additional benefit.

Policy Changes

Change in Type of Death Benefit. You may also change the type of death benefit coverage from Option 1 to Option 2 or from Option 2 to Option 1. The request for such a change must be made in writing on a form suitable to us. The change will be effective on the first monthly anniversary day on or next following the day we receive the request. No change in the type of death benefit will be allowed if the resulting specified amount would be less than the minimum specified amount of $50,000.

If the change is from Option 1 to Option 2, the insured's specified amount after such change will be equal to the insured's specified amount prior to such change minus the policy value on the date of change.

If the change is from Option 2 to Option 1, the insured's specified amount after such change will be equal to the insured's specified amount prior to such change plus the policy value on the date of change.

Changes in Amount of Insurance Coverage. In addition to the above changes, you may request to increase or decrease the specified amount at any time. The request for such a change must be from you and in writing on a form suitable to us. Any decrease will become effective on the first monthly anniversary day on or next following the day the request is received by us. Any such decrease will reduce insurance first against insurance provided by the most recent increase, next against the next most recent increases successively, and finally against insurance


25


provided under the original application. The specified amount after any requested decrease may not be less than $50,000. Any request for an increase must be applied for on a supplemental application. Such increase will be subject to evidence of insurability satisfactory to us and to its issue rules and limits at the time of increase. Furthermore, such increase will not be allowed unless the net cash surrender value is sufficient to cover the next monthly deductions and the surrender charge for the increase. Any increase will become effective on the first monthly anniversary day on or next following the day the application for increase is approved.

Changes in the initial specified amount, partial withdrawals, and/or death benefit option during the first two policy years may affect the death benefit guarantee monthly premium. These events and loans may also affect the policy's ability to remain in force.

Policy Value

The policy provides for the accumulation of policy value, which is calculated as often as the assets of the Separate Account are valued. The policy value varies with the amount of interest credited to the General Account and the investment performance of the Separate Account, as well as other factors. In particular, policy value also depends on any premiums received, any policy loans, and any charges and deductions assessed the policy. The policy has no guaranteed minimum policy value.

On the policy date the policy value will be the initial net premium, minus the sum of the following:

a)  The monthly administrative charge;

b)  The cost of insurance for the first month;

c)  Any charges for extra benefits.

On each monthly anniversary day the policy value is equal to the sum of the following:

a)  The policy value on the preceding day;

b)  Any increase due to net investment results in the value of the subaccounts to which the investment amount is allocated;

c)  Interest at not less than an annual rate of 4.0% (the General Account guaranteed interest rate) on amounts allocated to the General Account;

d)  Interest at not less than an annual rate of 4.0% on any outstanding loan amount;

e)  Any net premiums received since the preceding day.

Minus the sum of the following:

f)  Any decrease due to net investment results in the value of the subaccounts to which the investment amount is allocated;

g)  Any withdrawals;

h)  Any amount charged against the investment amount for federal or other governmental income taxes;

i)  The monthly administrative charge;

j)  The cost of insurance for the following month;

k)  Any charges for extra benefits.

On any day other than a monthly anniversary day, the policy value is equal to the sum of the following:

a)  The policy value on the preceding day;

b)  Any increase due to net investment results in the value of the subaccounts to which the investment amount is allocated;


26


c)  Interest at not less than an annual rate of 4.0% (the General Account guaranteed interest rate) on amounts allocated to the General Account;

d)  Interest at not less than an annual rate of 4.0% on any outstanding loan amount;

e)  Any net premiums received since the preceding day.

Minus the sum of the following:

f)  Any decrease due to net investment results in the value of the subaccounts to which the investment amount is allocated;

g)  Any withdrawals;

h)  Any amount charged against the investment amount for federal or other governmental income taxes.

The charges and deductions described above are further discussed in the "Charges and Deductions" section of this prospectus.

Net Investment Results. The net investment results are the changes in the unit values of the subaccounts from the previous valuation day to the current day. The net investment results are equal to the per unit change in the market value of each fund's assets reduced by the per unit share of the mortality and expense risk charge for the period, and increased by the per unit share of any dividends credited to the subaccount by the fund during the period. The market value of fund assets reflect the asset management charge and any miscellaneous expenses incurred by the fund.

The value of the assets in the funds will be taken at their fair market value in accordance with accepted accounting practices and applicable laws and regulations.

Transfer Between Subaccounts

Any time after the record date, you may request to transfer an amount from one subaccount to another. The request to transfer funds must be in writing on a form suitable to us. Transfers may be made by telephone request only if the owner has previously authorized telephone transfers in writing on a form suitable to us. You may also send your request by facsimile to the Administrative Office. We will follow reasonable procedures to determine that the telephone requester is authorized to request such transfers, including requiring certain identifying information contained in the written authorization. If such procedures are followed, we will not be liable for any loss arising from any telephone transfer. Transfers will take effect on the date that the request is received at our administrative mailing address. A transfer charge of $10 is made for each transfer and is deducted from the amount transferred; however, the transfer charge is currently being waived for all transfers. The minimum amount which may be transferred between subaccounts is $100. The maximum number of transfers allowed in a policy year is twelve. Transfer and financial requests received before the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time on a business day) will normally be effective that day. There may be circumstances under which the New York Stock Exchange may close before 4:00 p.m. In such circumstances transactions requested after such early closing will be processed using the accumulation unit value computed the following trading day.

Some of the underlying funds have reserved the right to temporarily or permanently refuse payments or transfer requests from us if, in the judgment of the underlying fund's investment advisor, the underlying fund would be unable to invest effectively in accordance with its investment objective or policies, or would otherwise potentially be adversely affected. To the extent permitted by applicable law, we reserve the right to defer or reject a transfer request at any time that we are unable to purchase or redeem shares of any of the underlying funds, including any refusal or restrictions on purchases or redemptions of the Subaccount units as a result of the underlying fund's own policies and procedures on market timing activities. We may also defer or reject an allocation or transfer request that is subject to a restriction that is imposed by the underlying fund at any time. If an underlying fund refuses to accept a transfer request we have already processed, we will reverse the transaction within 1-2 business days of


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the day on which we receive notice of the refusal. We will notify you in writing if we have reversed, restricted or refused any of your transfer requests.

Transfer to and from the General Account

Any time after the record date, you may also request to transfer amounts from the Separate Account to the General Account. Transfers from the General Account to the Separate Account are subject to several restrictions:

1)  only one transfer from the General Account to the Separate Account is allowed during any twelve consecutive months; and

2)  as of the date of the transfer, the amount transferred may be any amount up to, but not exceeding, 20% of the unloaned policy value in the General Account. Currently, the 20% maximum transfer limitation does not apply for the first 6 months after the policy issue date.

There is no minimum transfer amount. However, if the unloaned portion of the General Account is $500 or less, the owner may transfer all or a portion of this amount to the Separate Account and the 20% maximum transfer restriction does not apply. For each transfer there is a $10 charge deducted from the amount transferred. Currently, this transfer charge is being waived. Due to these limitations, if you want to transfer all of your value from the Fixed Account to one or more Sub-Accounts, it may take several years to do so.

Please note that the telephone and/or facsimile may not always be available. Any telephone or facsimile, whether it is yours, your service provider's, or your agent's, 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 are experiencing problems, you should send your request in writing to our Administrative Office.

Market Timing

Frequent, large, or short-term transfers among Sub-Accounts and the Fixed Account, such as those associated with "market timing" transactions, can affect the funds and their investment returns. Such transfers may dilute the value of the fund shares, interfere with the efficient management of the fund's portfolio, and increase brokerage and administrative costs of the funds. As an effort to protect our policy owners and the funds from potentially harmful trading activity, we utilize certain market timing policies and procedures (the "Market Timing Procedures"). Our Market Timing Procedures are designed to detect and prevent such transfer activity among the Sub-Accounts and the Fixed Account that may affect other policy owners or fund shareholders.

In addition, the funds may have adopted their own policies and procedures with respect to frequent purchases and redemptions of their respective shares. The prospectuses for the funds describe any such policies and procedures, which may be more or less restrictive than the frequent trading policies and procedures of other funds and the Market Timing Procedures we have adopted to discourage frequent transfers among Sub-Accounts. While we reserve the right to enforce these policies and procedures, policy owners and other persons with interests under the policies should be aware that we may not have the contractual obligation or the operational capacity to apply the frequent trading policies and procedures of the funds. You should note that these policies and procedures may result in an underlying fund deferring or permanently refusing to accept premium payments or transfers for the reasons described in "Transfer Between Subaccounts" above. In such case, our rights and obligations will be as described in "Transfer Between Subaccounts". Some of the underlying funds may also impose redemption fees on short-term trading (i.e., redemptions of underlying fund shares within a certain number of business days after purchase). We reserve the right to administer and collect any such redemption fees on behalf of the underlying funds. You should read the prospectuses of the underlying funds for more details on their ability to refuse or restrict purchases or redemptions of their shares.


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However, under the SEC rules, we are required to: (1) enter into written agreement with each fund or its principal underwriter that obligates us to provide to the fund promptly upon request certain information about the trading activity of individual policy owners, and (2) execute instructions from the fund to restrict or prohibit further purchases or transfers by specific policy owners who violate excessive trading policies established by the fund.

You should be aware that purchase and redemption orders received by funds generally are "omnibus" orders from intermediaries such as retirement plans or separate accounts to which premium payments and cash values of variable insurance policies are allocated. The omnibus orders reflect the aggregation and netting of multiple orders from individual retirement plan participants and/or individual owners of variable insurance policies. The omnibus nature of these orders may limit the funds' ability to apply their respective disruptive trading policies and procedures. We cannot guarantee that the funds (and thus our policy owners) will not be harmed by transfer activity relating to the retirement plans and/or other insurance companies that may purchase the funds. In addition, if a fund believes that an omnibus order we submit may reflect one or more transfer requests from policy owners engaged in disruptive trading activity, the fund may reject the entire omnibus order.

Our Market Timing Procedures detect potential "market timers" by examining the number of transfers made by policy owners within given periods of time. In addition, managers of the funds might contact us if they believe or suspect that there is market timing. If requested by a fund company, we may vary our Market Timing Procedures from subaccount to subaccount to comply with specific fund policies and procedures.

We may increase our monitoring of policy owners who we have previously identified as market timers. When applying the parameters used to detect market timers, we will consider multiple policies owned by the same policy owner if that policy owner has been identified as a market timer. For each policy owner, we will investigate the transfer patterns that meet the parameters being used to detect potential market timers. We will also investigate any patterns of trading behavior identified by the funds that may not have been captured by our Market Timing Procedures.

Once a policy owner has been identified as a "market timer" under our Market Timing Procedures, we will notify the policy owner in writing that future transfers (among the subaccounts and/or the fixed account) will be temporarily permitted to be made only by original signature sent to us by U.S. mail, standard delivery for the remainder of the policy year. Overnight delivery or electronic instructions (which may include telephone, facsimile or Internet instructions) submitted during this period will not be accepted. If overnight delivery or electronic instructions from or on behalf of an owner who has been identified as a market timer are inadvertently accepted, we will reverse the transaction within 1-2 business days of our discovery of such acceptance. We will impose this "original signature" restriction on that policy owner even if we cannot identify, in the particular circumstances, any harmful effect from that policy owner's particular transfers.

Policy owners seeking to engage in frequent, large, or short-term transfer activity may deploy a variety of strategies to avoid detection. Our ability to detect such transfer activity may be limited by operational systems and technological limitations. The identification of policy owners determined to be engaged in such transfer activity that may adversely affect other policy owners or fund shareholders involves judgments that are inherently subjective. We cannot guarantee that our Market Timing Procedures will detect every potential market timer. If we are unable to detect market timers, you may experience dilution in the value of your fund shares and increased brokerage and administrative costs in the funds. This may result in lower long-term returns for your investments.

Our Market Timing Procedures are applied consistently to all policy owners. An exception for any policy owner will be made only in the event we are required to do so by a court of law. In addition, certain funds available as investment options in your policy may also be available as investment options for owners of other, older life insurance policies issued by us.


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Some of these older life insurance policies do not provide a contractual basis to restrict or refuse transfers which are suspected to be market timing activity. In addition, because other insurance companies and/or retirement plans may invest in the funds, we cannot guarantee that the funds will not suffer harm from frequent large, or short-term transfer activity among subaccounts and the fixed accounts of variable contracts issued by other insurance companies or among investment options available to retirement plan participants.

In our sole discretion, we may revise Market Timing Procedures at any time without prior notice as necessary to better detect and deter frequent, large, or short-term transfer activity to comply with state or federal regulatory requirements, and/or to impose additional or alternate restrictions on market timers (such as dollar or percentage limits on transfers). If we modify our Market Timing Procedures, they will be applied uniformly to all policy owners or as applicable to all policy owners with policy values allocated to subaccounts investing in particular funds. We also reserve the right to implement and administer redemption fees imposed by one or more of the funds in the future.

Loans

You may, upon written request, borrow against the policy. You must execute a written loan agreement with us. The policy will be the sole security for the loan, and the policy must be assigned to us as part of the loan agreement. Ordinarily, the loan will be processed within seven days from the date the request for a loan is received at our administrative mailing address. Payments may be postponed under certain circumstances. (See Postponement of Payments.)

A loan taken from, or secured by, a policy may have federal income tax consequences. If your policy lapses while a loan is outstanding, the borrowed amount may be taxable to you to the extent your policy's value exceeds your basis in the policy. (See Tax Issues.)

Loan Amount. The amount of all outstanding loans with interest may not exceed the policy value less surrender charge as of the date of the policy loan. Note, however, that in the earlier policy years, depending on the premium payments made, or if you have requested a substantial reduction in specified amount, there may be little or no policy value available. If at any time the total of policy loans plus loan interest equals or exceeds the policy value less surrender charge, notice will be sent to the last known address of the owner, and any assignee of record, and the policy will enter into the grace period. If sufficient payment is not received within 61 days after notice is mailed, the policy will lapse and terminate without value. (See Policy Lapse and Reinstatement.)

Deduction of Loan and Loan Interest. Unless we agree otherwise the amount of any loan or unpaid loan interest will be deducted from the General Account and the subaccounts in proportion to the value in each. Amounts deducted from the Separate Account will be transferred to the Lincoln Life General Account, where they will earn interest at an annual rate of not less than 4.0%; currently, loaned amounts earn interest at an annual rate of 4.95%. Any interest not paid when due will be added to the existing loan amount and will also be charged interest at the same policy loan rate. Policy Values in the Loan Account (Loan Collateral account) are part of the Company's General Account.

The amount will remain a part of the policy value, but will not be increased or decreased by investment results in the Separate Account. Therefore, the policy value could be more or less than what it would have been if the policy loan had not been made, depending on the investment results in the Separate Account compared to the interest credited to the assets transferred to the General Account to secure the loan. In this way, a loan may have a permanent effect upon both the policy value and the death benefit and may increase the potential for policy lapse.

Loan Repayments. Loan repayments will ordinarily be allocated to the General Account and the subaccounts in accord with the most recent premium allocation. Any loan not repaid at the time of surrender of the policy, maturity, or death of the insured will be deducted from the amount otherwise payable.


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Withdrawals

Any time after the first policy year, and during the lifetime of the insured, you may make cash withdrawals from the policy value. The amount and timing of withdrawals is subject to certain limitations. The minimum withdrawal is $500 and only one withdrawal may be made during a policy year. During any year in which the surrender charge is greater than zero, the amount of the withdrawal may not be more than 20% of the net cash surrender value (except that we have the current practice of waiving the 20% limitation after the tenth policy year). During any year in which the surrender charge is equal to zero, the amount of the withdrawal may not be more than the net cash surrender value. A charge of $10 is made for each withdrawal and is deducted from the withdrawn amount; the balance is paid to the owner. You should be aware that withdrawals may result in the owner incurring a tax liability. (See Tax Issues.)

Deduction of Withdrawal. When a withdrawal is made, the policy value will be reduced by the amount of the withdrawal. The amount will be deducted from the General Account and the subaccounts in proportion to the values in the General Account and the subaccounts. The deduction may be made by some other method if the owner requests it, and if such method is acceptable to us.

Effect of Withdrawals on Death Benefit and Cost of Insurance. A withdrawal may affect the death benefit amount in one of several ways. First, if the death benefit type is Option 1, the specified amount will automatically be reduced by the amount of the withdrawal, and thus will lower the death benefit by the same amount. If the death benefit is Option 2, this reduction in the specified amount does not occur, but the death benefit is lowered by the amount the policy value is decreased by the withdrawal. In addition, since the death benefit is required to be at least equal to the specified percentage multiplied times the policy value, a reduction in the policy value will sometimes result in a reduction in the death benefit equal to the specified percentage times the reduction in policy value. (See Death Benefit and Death Benefit Types.) In such cases, where the death benefit is reduced by an amount greater than the withdrawal, the subsequent cost of insurance will be reduced (under either type of death benefit) to reflect the excess reduction in death benefit.

No withdrawal will be allowed if the resulting insured's specified amount would be less than $50,000. The request for withdrawal must be in writing on a form suitable to us.

Ordinarily, withdrawals will be processed within seven days from the date the request for a withdrawal is received at our administrative mailing address. Payment of the withdrawal amount may be postponed under certain circumstances. (See Postponement of Payments.)

Policy Lapse and Reinstatement

During the first two policy years, insurance coverage under the policy will be continued in force as long as the total premiums paid (minus any partial withdrawals and minus any outstanding loans) equals or exceeds the death benefit guarantee monthly premium times the number of months since the policy date, including the current month. Unless coverage is being continued under the death benefit guarantee (see Death Benefit Guarantee) lapse will occur when the policy value less surrender charges and less outstanding loans is insufficient to cover the monthly deductions and the grace period expires without a sufficient payment. The policy value may be insufficient to pay the cost of insurance because it has been exhausted by earlier deductions; due to poor investment performance, withdrawals, indebtedness for policy loans, substantial reductions in specified amount, the terms of certain riders added to the policy, or because of some combination of these factors. Insurance coverage will continue during the grace period, but the policy will be deemed to have no policy value for purposes of policy loans and surrenders. Regardless of premium payments or current net cash surrender value, coverage will never be continued beyond the maturity date of the policy.

A grace period of 61 days will begin on the date we send a notice of any shortfall to the last known address of the owner or any assignee. The owner must, during the grace period, make a payment sufficient to cover the monthly


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deductions and any other charges due under the policy until the end of the grace period. Failure to make a sufficient payment during the grace period will cause the policy to lapse. If lapse occurs during the first two policy years, any excess sales charge will be returned to the owner. If the insured dies during the grace period, regardless of the cause of the grace period, any due and unpaid monthly deductions will be deducted from the death benefit.

You may reinstate a lapsed policy at any time within five years after the date of lapse and before the maturity date by submitting evidence of insurability satisfactory to us and a premium sufficient to keep the policy in force for two months as well as the repayment of any indebtedness. The effective date of a reinstatement will be the first monthly anniversary day on or next following the day the application for reinstatement is approved. The above will not apply if the policy had been previously surrendered. Your accumulation value at reinstatement will be the net premium payment then made less all monthly deductions due.

Surrender of the Policy

You may surrender the policy at any time during the lifetime of the insured and receive the net cash surrender value. Please note that if you surrender your policy in its early years, you may receive little or no cash value. The net cash surrender value is equal to the policy value minus any surrender charge, minus any outstanding loan and plus any unearned loan interest. If surrender occurs during the first two policy years, any excess sales charge will be returned to the owner. The request must be made in writing on a form suitable to us. The request will be effective the date the request is received at our administrative mailing address, or at a later date if you so request.

Ordinarily, the surrender will be processed within seven days from the date the request for surrender is received. However, if you have money due from the General Account, payment from the General Account may be deferred up to six months at Lincoln Life's option. If Lincoln Life exercises its right to defer any payment from the General Account interest will be paid as required by law from the date the recipient would otherwise have been entitled to receive the payment. The tax treatment of a surrender policy is discussed under Tax Issues.

As of January 17, 2012, we no longer offer SecureLine® for withdrawals or surrenders. SecureLine® is an interest bearing account established from the proceeds payable on a policy or contract administered by us. We will, however, continue to offer SecureLine® for death benefit proceeds. Please see "Death Benefit and Death Benefit Types" section in this prospectus for more information about SecureLine®.

All coverage under the policy will automatically terminate and may not be reinstated if the owner makes a full surrender. A full or partial surrender of the policy may have tax consequences.

Proceeds and Payment Options

Proceeds. The amount payable under the policy on the maturity date (the policy anniversary following the insured's 99th birthday), on the surrender of the policy, or upon the death of any insured person is called the proceeds of the policy.

The proceeds to be paid on the death of the insured will be the death benefit minus any outstanding policy loan, and plus any unearned loan interest. The proceeds to be paid on the surrender of the policy or on the maturity date will be the net cash surrender value.

Any amount to be paid at the death of the insured or any other termination of this policy will be paid in one sum unless otherwise provided. Interest will be paid on this amount from date of death or maturity to date of payment at a specified rate, not less than that required by law. All or part of the sum of this amount and such interest credited to date of payment will be applied to any payment option.

To the extent allowed by law, proceeds are not to be subject to any claims of a beneficiary's creditors.


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Payment Options. Upon written request, all or part of the proceeds and interest credited thereon may be applied to any payment option available from us at the time payment is to be made. Under certain conditions, payment options will only be available with our consent. Such conditions will exist if the proceeds to be settled under any option are $2,500 or less, or if any installment or interest payment is $25 or less. In addition, if any payee is a corporation, partnership, association, trustee, or assignee, our approval is needed before any proceeds can be applied to a payment option.

You may elect any payment option while the insured is alive and may change that election if that right has been reserved. When the proceeds become payable to a beneficiary, the beneficiary may elect any payment option if the proceeds are available to the beneficiary in one sum.

The option date is any date the policy terminates under the termination provision.

Any proceeds payable under the policy may also be settled under any other method of settlement offered by us on the option date. Additional interest as we may determine may be paid or credited from time to time in addition to the payments guaranteed under a payment option. The payment option elected, as well as the time the election is made, may have tax consequences.

When proceeds become payable under a payment option, a payment contract will be issued to the payee in exchange for the policy. Such payment contract may not be assigned. Any change in payment option may be made only if it is provided for in the payment contract. Under some of the payment options, proceeds may be withdrawn under such payment option if provided for in the payment contract. The amount to be withdrawn varies by the payment option.

General Provisions

The Contract

The entire contract consists of the policy plus the application and any supplemental application, plus any riders, plus any amendments. The policy is issued in consideration of the application and payment of the Initial premium. Only statements in the application and any supplemental applications can be used to contest the validity of the policy or defend a claim. These statements are, in the absence of fraud, considered representations and not warranties. A change in the policy will be binding on us only if the change is in writing and the change is made by the President, Vice President, Secretary, or Assistant Secretary of Lincoln Life.

The policy is nonparticipating; it will not share in our profit or surplus earnings.

Suicide

If the insured dies by suicide, while sane or insane, within two years from the policy date, our total liability under the policy will be the premiums paid, minus any policy loan, plus any unearned loan interest, minus any prior withdrawals, and minus the cost of any riders.

If the insured dies by suicide, while sane or insane, within two years from the effective date of any increase in insurance, our total liability with respect to such increase will be its cost of insurance and monthly charges.

If the insured dies by suicide, while sane or insane, within two years from the effective date of any reinstatement, our total liability with respect to such reinstatement will be the premiums paid since the effective date of the reinstatement, minus any policy loan, plus any loan interest, minus any prior withdrawals, and minus the cost of any riders.

Representations and Contestability

All statements made in an application by, or on behalf of, the insured will, in the absence of fraud, be deemed representations and not warranties. Statements may be used to contest a claim or validity of the policy only if these


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statements are contained in the application for issue, reissue, or reinstatement, or in any supplemental application, and a copy of that application or supplemental application is attached to the policy. The policy will not be contestable after it has been in force for two years from the policy date during the lifetime of the insured. Also, any increase in coverage or any reinstatement will not be contestable after that increase or reinstatement has been in force two years from its effective date during the lifetime of the insured. Any contest will then be based only on the application for the increase or reinstatement and will be subject to the same conditions as for contest of the policy.

Incorrect Age or Gender

If there is an error in the age or gender of the insured, the excess of the death benefit over the policy value will be adjusted to that which would be purchased by the most recent cost of insurance at the correct age and gender. The resulting death benefit will not be less than the percentage of the policy value required by the death benefit provision at the insured's correct age.

Change of Owner or Beneficiary

The owner of the policy is the owner identified in the application, or a successor. All rights of the owner belong to the owner while the insured is alive. The rights pass to the estate of the owner if the owner dies before the insured. The owner may transfer all ownership rights and privileges to a new owner while the insured is living. The request must be in writing on a form suitable to us and received at our administrative address. Once recorded, the change will be effective as of the date signed. The change will be effective the day that the request is received at our administrative mailing address. We will not be responsible for any payment or other action taken before having recorded the transfer. A change of ownership will not, in and of itself, affect the interest of any beneficiary. A change of ownership may have tax consequences.

The beneficiary is identified in the application for the policy, and will receive the proceeds when the insured dies. The beneficiary may be changed by the owner while the insured is alive, and provided that any prior designation does not prohibit such a change. The change request must be in writing on a form suitable to us and received at our administrative address. Once recorded, the change will be effective as of the date signed. A change will revoke any prior designation of the beneficiary. We reserve the right to require the policy for endorsement of the change of beneficiary designation.

If not otherwise provided, the interest of any beneficiary who dies before the insured will pass to any other beneficiaries according to their interest. If no beneficiary survives the insured, the proceeds will be paid in one sum to the owner, if living. If the owner is not living, the proceeds will be paid to the owner's estate.

In addition to changes in ownership or beneficiary designations, you should make certain that our records are up to date with respect to your address and contact information and, to the extent possible, the address and contact information of any beneficiaries. This will ensure that there are no unnecessary delays in effecting any changes you wish to make, ownership privileges you wish to exercise or payments of proceeds to you or your beneficiaries.

Every state has unclaimed property laws which generally declare property, including monies owed (such as death benefits) to be abandoned if unclaimed or uncashed after a period of three to five years from the date the property is intended to be delivered or date the death benefit is due and payable. For example, if the payment of a death benefit has been triggered and, if after a thorough search, we are still unable to locate the beneficiary of the death benefit, or the beneficiary does not come forward to claim the death benefit in a timely manner, the death benefit will be paid to the abandoned property division or unclaimed property office of the state in which the beneficiary or the owner last resided, as shown on our books and records, or to our state of domicile. This "escheatment" is revocable, however, and the state is obligated to pay the death benefit (without interest) if your beneficiary steps forward to claim it with the proper documentation. To prevent such escheatment, it is important that you contact us and update your beneficiary designations, including addresses, if and as they change.


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Assignment

Any assignment of the policy will not be binding on us unless it is in writing on a form suitable to us and is received at our administrative mailing address. We will not be responsible for the validity of any assignment, and reserve the right to require the policy for endorsement of any assignment. An assignment of the policy may have tax consequences.

Reports and Records

All accounts, books, records and other documents which are required to be maintained for the separate account are maintained by us or by third parties responsible to Lincoln Life. We will mail to the owner at least once each year a report, without charge, which will show the current policy value, the current net cash surrender value, the current death benefit, any current policy loans, any premiums paid, any cost of insurance charges deducted, and any withdrawals made. The report will also include any other data that may be required where the contract is delivered.

In addition, we will provide to policyowners semiannually, or otherwise as may be required by regulations under the 1940 Act, a report containing information about the operations of the funds.

Policy owners will receive statements of significant transactions such as: changes in specified amount or death benefit option; transfers among subaccounts; premium payments; loans and repayment of loans; reinstatement; and termination.

We have entered into an agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company, WeWork, 1100 Main Street, Suite 400, Kansas City, MO 64105, to provide accounting services to the separate account. No separate charge against the assets of the separate account is made by us for this service.

Projection of Benefits and Values

At the owner's request, we will provide a report to the owner which shows projected future results. The request must be in writing to our administrative mailing address on a form suitable to us. The report will be comparable in format to those shown in Appendix D and will be based on assumptions in regard to the death benefit as may be specified by the owner, planned premium payments as may be specified by the owner, and such other assumptions as are necessary and specified either by the owner or us. A reasonable fee may be charged for this projection.

Postponement of Payments

Payments of any amount payable on surrender, loan, or benefits payable at death or maturity may be postponed whenever:

(i)  The New York Stock Exchange is closed other than customary week-end and holiday closings, or trading on the New York Stock Exchange is restricted as determined by the Securities and Exchange Commission;

(ii)  the Commission by order permits postponement for the protection of owners; or

(iii)  an emergency exists, as determined by the Commission, as a result of which disposal of securities is not reasonably practical or it is not reasonably practical to determine the value of the Separate Account's net assets.

Transfers may also be postponed under such circumstances.

Requests for surrenders or policy loans of policy values representing premiums paid by check may be delayed until such time as the check has cleared the owner's bank.

Riders

The availability of the riders listed below is subject to approval by the Insurance Department of the state in which the policy is issued, and is also subject to the current underwriting and issue procedures in place at the time of the application. The underwriting and issue procedures are subject to change without notice. In our discretion, we may


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offer additional riders that may alter the benefits or charges in your policy. Riders may have tax consequences. Adding a term insurance rider may diminish the policy value of your base policy or of other riders. Consult your financial and tax advisers before adding riders to, or deleting them from, your policy.

Term insurance is less costly for you to purchase. If term insurance is purchased, there is no increase in the cash value of your policy.

Term Rider for Covered Insured. The spouse and/or children of the Primary Insured may be added as an Other Insured on the base plan. Likewise, other individuals can be added as an Other Insured. The Term Rider for Covered Insured is a term rider available for issue ages 0 to 80 and the cost of insurance is deducted monthly for this benefit. Up to three such riders may be added to a base policy. The maximum amount which may be issued on any rider equals the amount of coverage on the policy multiplied times 19. The minimum amount is $10,000 for each Other Insured.

Children's Term Rider. The Children's Term Rider is a term rider available for children (natural, adopted, or stepchild) of the Primary Insured. Children 15 days to age 24 inclusive are covered. The rider is available in units of $1,000 with a minimum of $2,000 and a maximum of $20,000 per any one family. The cost of insurance for this rider is deducted monthly.

Guaranteed Insurability Rider. This rider is available for issue ages 0 to 40 and it is available for the Primary Insured, and/or those covered under the Term Rider for Covered Insured. This rider allows the Covered Insured to purchase, without evidence of insurability, additional insurance on the option dates, or alternate option dates. It can be purchased in units of $1,000, with a minimum amount of $10,000 and a maximum amount of $100,000 or the specified amount, if less. Total amount of options exercised may not exceed five times the option amount. There are eight regular option dates, beginning at age 25, every three years thereafter, and the last option is at age 46. An alternate option date will occur three months after marriage, birth of a child, or adoption of a child. Exercising an alternate option date eliminates the next regular option date. This rider is not available for substandard risks. The cost of insurance for this rider is deducted monthly from the policy value.

Accidental Death Benefit Rider. This rider is available for the Primary Insured, and/or those covered under the Term Rider for Covered Insured. The Accidental Death Benefit Rider provides an additional life insurance benefit in the case of accidental death. It is available for ages 5 through 69. The minimum amount which can be purchased is $10,000 and the maximum amount is two times the specified amount on the Covered Insured, not to exceed a total of $350,000 in all policies, in all companies, for that insured. The cost of insurance for this rider is deducted monthly from the policy value.

Waiver of Cost of Insurance Rider. This rider is available for ages 5 through 64. It waives the total cost of insurance for the policy, the monthly charge, and the cost of any additional benefit riders, after the Primary Insured has been totally disabled for six consecutive months and the claim for total disability has been approved. The cost of insurance for this rider is deducted monthly from the policy value.

Disability Benefit Payment Rider. This rider is available for ages 5 through 64. If the Covered Insured (Primary Insured or other insureds) under this rider has been totally disabled for six consecutive months, and the claim for total disability has been approved, a disability benefit amount will be paid as a premium to the policy. The minimum benefit which can be selected is $50 per month. The maximum is two times the planned periodic premium. The cost of insurance for this rider is deducted monthly from the policy value.

Convalescent Care Benefit Rider. This rider may be available in several forms which differ by the amount and duration of benefit payments and also by the conditions required to receive benefit payments. The rider is available for the Primary Insured only and its availability may stipulate certain minimum or maximum policy specified amounts. The rider provides benefit payments when the health of the insured is such that covered convalescent care services are necessary. The cost of insurance for this rider is deducted monthly from the policy value.


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Contingent Option Rider. The Contingent Option Rider is a guaranteed insurability rider that gives the owner the right to purchase an additional policy without evidence of insurability upon the death of the designated person (the option life). Available to issue ages 20 through 80. The cost of insurance for this rider is based on the Contingent Option Amount and is deducted monthly from the policy value.

Retirement Option Rider. The Retirement Option Rider is a guaranteed insurability rider that gives the owner the right to purchase an additional policy without evidence of insurability within 60 days after a specific date (the option date). The option date, determined at the issue of the rider, may be the owner's anticipated retirement date or some other date after which additional insurance may be needed. Available to issue ages 20 through 70. The cost of insurance for this rider is based on the Retirement Option Amount and is deducted monthly from the policy value.

Accelerated Benefit Election Rider. This rider gives the owner the right to receive a portion of the death benefit prior to death if the insured is diagnosed as having an illness which with reasonable medical certainty will cause death within 12 months. Upon receipt of proof of loss, up to one-half of the eligible death benefit (as defined in the Rider) may be advanced to the owner in cash as an initial accelerated benefit. A limited amount of subsequent accelerated benefit is also available to pay premiums and interest charges required on the policy. The amount of all advanced accelerated benefits creates an interest-bearing lien against the death benefit otherwise payable at death. This rider is available to issue ages 0 through 80. There is no cost of insurance for this rider, but an administrative expense charge is payable upon application for benefits.

Distribution of the Policies and Compensation

The policy is distributed by broker-dealer firms through their registered representatives who are appointed as life insurance agents for the Company, subject to the terms of selling agreements entered into by such firms, the Company and the Company's Principal Underwriter, Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc, ("LFD"). The Company's affiliates, Lincoln Financial Advisors Corporation and Lincoln Financial Securities Corporation (collectively, "LFN"), have such agreements in effect with LFD and the Company. In addition to compensation for distributing the policy as described below, the Company provides financial and personnel support to LFD and LFN for operating and other expenses, including amounts used for recruitment and training of personnel, production of literature and similar services.

The maximum total compensation we pay to any broker-dealer firm in the form of commission or expense reimbursement allowance, inclusive of any bonus incentives, with respect to policy sales is 140% of the first year premium and generally 5% of all other premiums paid. The actual amount of such compensation or the timing and manner of its receipt may be affected by a number of factors including: (a) choices the policy owner has made at the time of application for the policy, including the choice of riders, and the premium amount and timing; (b) the volume of business produced by the firm and its representatives; or (c) the profitability of the business the firm has placed with the Company. Also, in lieu of premium-based commission, equivalent amounts may be paid over time based on accumulation value.

In some situations, the broker-dealer may elect to share its commission or expense reimbursement allowance with its registered representatives. Registered representatives of broker-dealer firms may also be eligible for cash bonuses and "non-cash compensation." "Non-cash compensation", as defined under FINRA's rules, includes but is not limited to, merchandise, gifts, marketing support, sponsorships, seminars, entertainment and travel expenses.

Broker-dealers or their affiliates may be paid additional amounts for: (1) "preferred product" treatment of the policies in their marketing programs, which may include marketing services and increased access to sales representatives; (2) sales incentives relating to the policies; (3) costs associated with sales conferences and educational seminars for their sales representatives; (4) other sales expenses incurred by them; and (5) inclusion in the financial products the broker-dealer offers. Loans may be provided to broker-dealers or their affiliates to help finance marketing and distribution of the policies, and those loans may be forgiven if aggregate sales goals are met. In addition, staffing or other administrative support and services may be provided to broker-dealers who distribute the policies.


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These additional types of compensation are not offered to all broker-dealers. The terms of any particular agreement governing compensation may vary among broker-dealers and the amounts may be significant. The prospect of receiving, or the receipt of, additional compensation may provide broker-dealers and/or their registered representatives with an incentive to favor sales of the policies over other variable life insurance policies (or other investments) with respect to which a broker-dealer does not receive additional compensation, or receives lower levels of additional compensation. You may ask your registered representative how he/she will personally be compensated for the transaction. You may wish to take such payments into account when considering and evaluating any recommendation relating to the policies.

Depending on the particular selling arrangements, there may be others who are compensated for distribution activities. For example, LFD may compensate certain "wholesalers," who control access to certain selling offices for access to those offices or for referrals, and that compensation may be separate from the compensation paid for sales of the policies. LFD may compensate marketing organizations, associations, brokers or consultants which provide marketing assistance and other services to broker-dealers who distribute the policies, and which may be affiliated with those broker-dealers. Commissions and other incentives or payments described above are not charged directly to policy owners or the Separate Account. The potential of receiving, or the receipt of, such marketing assistance or other services and the payment to those who control access or for referrals, may provide broker-dealers and/or their registered representatives an incentive to favor sales of the policies over other variable life insurance policies (or other investments) with respect to which a broker-dealer does not receive similar assistance or disadvantage issuers of other variable life insurance policies (or other investments) which do not compensate for access or referrals. All compensation is paid from our resources, which include fees and charges imposed on your policy.

We do not anticipate that the surrender charge, together with the portion of the premium load attributable to sales expense, will cover all sales and administrative expenses which we will incur in connection with your policy. Any such shortfall would be available for recovery from the Company's General Account, which supports insurance and annuity obligations.

Advertising and Ratings

We may include in certain advertisements, endorsements in the form of a list of organizations, individuals or other parties which recommend Lincoln Life or its policies. Furthermore, we may occasionally include in advertisements comparisons of currently taxable and tax deferred investment programs, based on selected tax brackets, or discussions of alternative investment vehicles and general economic conditions.

Our financial strength is ranked and rated by nationally recognized independent rating agencies. The ratings do not imply approval of the policy and do not refer to the performance of the policy, or any separate account including the underlying investment options. Ratings are not recommendations to buy our policies. Each of the rating agencies reviews its ratings periodically. Accordingly, all ratings are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the rating agencies, and therefore, no assurance can be given that these ratings will be maintained. Our insurer financial strength ratings are on outlook stable except for the ratings assigned by Fitch for all three insurance subsidiaries and the rating assigned by AM Best for First Penn Pacific Life Insurance Company, which are on outlook negative. Our financial strength ratings, which are intended to measure our ability to meet owners obligations, are an important factor affecting public confidence in most of our policies and, as a result, our competitiveness. A downgrade of our financial strength rating could affect our competitive position in the insurance industry by making it more difficult for us to market our policies as potential customers may select companies with higher financial strength ratings and by leading to increased withdrawals by current customers seeking companies with higher financial strength ratings. For more information on ratings, including outlooks, see www.lfg.com/public/aboutus/investorrelations/financialinformation/ratings.


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Tax Issues

Introduction. The Federal income tax treatment of the policy is complex and sometimes uncertain. The Federal income tax rules may vary with your particular circumstances. This discussion does not include all the Federal income tax rules that may affect you and your policy, and is not intended as tax advice. This discussion also does not address other Federal tax consequences, such as estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer taxes, or any state and local income, estate, and inheritance tax consequences, associated with the policy. As a result, you should always consult a tax adviser about the application of federal and state tax rules to your individual situation.

Taxation of Life Insurance Contracts in General

Tax status of the policy. Section 7702 of the Code establishes a statutory definition of life insurance for Federal tax purposes. We believe that the policy will meet the statutory definition of life insurance, under the guideline premium test, which provides for a maximum amount of premium paid depending on the insured's age, gender and risk classification in relation to the death benefit and a minimum amount of death benefit in relation to policy value. As a result, the death benefit payable under the policy will generally be excludable from the beneficiary's gross income, and interest and other income credited under the policy will not be taxable unless certain withdrawals are made (or are deemed to be made) from the policy prior to the insured's death, as discussed below. This tax treatment will only apply, however, if (1) the investments of the Separate Account are "adequately diversified" in accordance with U.S. Treasury Department ("Treasury") regulations, and (2) we, rather than you, are considered the owner of the assets of the Separate Account for Federal income tax purposes. The Code also recognizes a cash value accumulation test, which does not limit premiums paid, but requires the policy to provide a minimum death benefit in relation to the policy value, depending on the insured's age, gender, and risk classification. We will only apply this test to the policy if you have advised us to do so at the time you applied for the policy.

Investments in the Separate Account Must be Diversified. For a policy to be treated as a life insurance contract for Federal income tax purposes, the investments of the Separate Account must be "adequately diversified." Treasury regulations define standards for determining whether the investments of the Separate Account are adequately diversified. If the Separate Account fails to comply with these diversification standards, you could be required to pay tax currently on the excess of the contract value over the contract premium payments. Although we do not control the investments of the subaccounts, we expect that the subaccounts will comply with the Treasury regulations so that the Separate Account will be considered "adequately diversified."

Restriction on Investment Options. Federal income tax law limits your right to choose particular investments for the policy. Because the IRS has issued little guidance specifying those limits, the limits are uncertain and your right to allocate contract values among the subaccounts may exceed those limits. If so, you would be treated as the owner of the assets of the Separate Account and thus subject to current taxation on the income and gains from those assets. We do not know what limits may be set by the IRS in any guidance that it may issue and whether any such limits will apply to existing policies. We reserve the right to modify the policy without your consent to try to prevent the tax law from considering you as the owner of the assets of the Separate Account.

No Guarantees Regarding Tax Treatment. We make no guarantee regarding the tax treatment of any policy or of any transaction involving a policy. However, the remainder of this discussion assumes that your policy will be treated as a life insurance contract for Federal income tax purposes and that the tax law will not impose tax on any increase in your contract value until there is a distribution from your policy.

Tax Treatment of Life Insurance Death Benefit Proceeds. In general, the amount of the death benefit payable from a policy because of the death of the insured is excludable from gross income. Certain transfers of the policy for valuable consideration, however, may result in a portion of the death benefit being taxable.


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If the death benefit is not received in a lump sum and is, instead, applied under one of the settlement options, payments generally will be prorated between amounts attributable to the death benefit which will be excludable from the beneficiary's income and amounts attributable to interest (accruing after the insured's death) which will be includible in the beneficiary's income and amounts attributable to interest (accruing after the insured's death) which will be includible in the beneficiary's income.

Tax Deferral During Accumulation Period. Under existing provisions of the Code, except as described below, any increase in your contract value is generally not taxable to you unless amounts are received (or are deemed to be received) from the policy prior to the insured's death. If there is a total withdrawal from the policy, the surrender value will be includible in your income to the extent the amount received exceeds the "investment in the contract." (If there is any debt at the time of a total withdrawal, such debt will be treated as an amount received by the owner.) The "investment in the contract" generally is the aggregate amount of premium payments and other consideration paid for the policy, less the aggregate amount received under the policy previously to the extent such amounts received were excludable from gross income. Whether partial withdrawals (or other amounts deemed to be distributed) from the policy constitute income to you depends, in part, upon whether the policy is considered a MEC for Federal income tax purposes.

Policies that are MECs

Characterization of a Policy as a Modified Endowment Contract ("MEC"). A MEC is a life insurance policy that meets the requirements of Section 7702 and fails the "7-pay test" of Section 7702A of the Code. A policy will be classified as a MEC if premiums are paid more rapidly than allowed by the "7-pay test," a test that compares actual paid premium in the first seven years or the seven years following a material change against a pre-determined premium amount as defined in 7702A of the Code. A policy may also be classified as a MEC if it is received in exchange for another policy that is a MEC. In addition, even if the policy initially is not a MEC, it may in certain circumstances become a MEC. The circumstances under which a policy may become a MEC include a material change to the policy (within the meaning of tax law), a policy lapse and reinstatement more than 90 days following the lapse, or a withdrawal or a reduction in death benefit during the first seven policy years or in the first seven policy years following a material change.

Tax Treatment of Withdrawals, Loans, Assignments and Pledges under MECs. If the policy is a MEC, withdrawals and loans from the policy will be treated first as income and then as a recovery of premium payments. Thus, withdrawals will be includible in income to the extent the contract value exceeds the investment in the policy. The Code treats any amount received as a loan under a policy, and any assignment or pledge (or agreement to assign or pledge) any portion of your contract value, and any monthly charge for additional benefits that are not qualified additional benefits, as a withdrawal of such amount or portion. Your investment in the policy is increased by the amount includible in income with respect to such assignment, pledge, or loan.

Additional Taxes Payable on Withdrawals. A 10% additional tax may be imposed on any withdrawal (or any deemed distribution) from your MEC which you must include in your gross income. The 10% additional tax does not apply if one of several exceptions exists. These exceptions include withdrawals or surrenders that: you receive on or after you reach age 59 1/2, you receive because you became disabled (as defined in the tax law), or you receive as a series of substantially equal periodic payments for your life (or life expectancy). None of the additional tax exceptions apply to a taxpayer who is not an individual.

Special Rules if You Own More than One MEC. In certain circumstances, you must combine some or all of the life insurance contracts which are MECs that you own in order to determine the amount of withdrawal (including a deemed withdrawal) that you must include in income. For example, if you purchase two or more MECs from the same life insurance company (or its affiliates) during any calendar year, the Code treats all such policies as one contract. Treating two or more policies as one contract could affect the amount of a withdrawal (or a deemed withdrawal) that you must include in income and the amount that might be subject to the 10% additional tax described above.


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Policies that are not MECs

Tax Treatment of Withdrawals. If the policy is not a MEC, the amount of a withdrawal from the policy will generally be treated first as a non-taxable recovery of premium payments and then as income from the policy. Thus, a withdrawal from a policy that is not a MEC will not be includible in income except to the extent it exceeds the investment in the policy immediately before the withdrawal.

Certain Distributions Required By the Tax Law in the First 15 Policy Years. Section 7702 places limitations on the amount of premium payments that may be made and the contract values that can accumulate relative to the death benefit. Where cash distributions are required under Section 7702 in connection with a reduction in benefits during the first 15 years after the policy is issued (or if withdrawals are made in anticipation of a reduction in benefits, within the meaning of the tax law, during this period), some or all of such amounts may be includible in income. A reduction in benefits may occur when the specified amount is decreased, withdrawals are made, and in certain other instances.

Tax Treatment of Loans. If your policy is not a MEC, a loan you receive under the policy is generally treated as your indebtedness. As a result, no part of any loan under such a policy constitutes income to you so long as the policy remains in force. Nevertheless, in those situations where the interest rate credited to the loan account equals the interest rate charged to you for the loan, it is possible that some or all of the loan proceeds may be includible in your income. If a policy lapses (or if all policy value is withdrawn or exchanged to a new policy in a tax-free policy exchange) when a loan is outstanding, the amount of the loan outstanding will be treated as withdrawal proceeds for purposes of determining whether any amounts are includible in your income.

Other Considerations

Insured lives past age 100. If the insured survives beyond the end of the mortality table, which is used to measure charges for the policy and which ends at age 100, and death benefit option 1 is in effect, in some circumstances the policy value may equal or exceed the specified amount level death benefit. In such a case, we believe the policy would continue to qualify as life insurance for Federal tax purposes. However, there is some uncertainty regarding this treatment, and it is possible that you would be viewed as constructively receiving the accumulation value in the year the insured attains age 100.

Compliance With the Tax Law. We believe that the maximum amount of premium payments we have determined for the policies will comply with the Federal tax definition of life insurance. We will monitor the amount of premium payments, and, if the premium payments during a contract year exceed those permitted by the tax law, we will refund the excess premiums within 60 days of the end of the policy year and will pay interest and other earnings (which will be includible in income subject to tax) as required by law on the amount refunded. We also reserve the right to increase the death benefit (which may result in larger charges under a policy) or to take any other action deemed necessary to maintain compliance of the policy with the Federal tax definition of life insurance.

Disallowance of Interest Deductions. Interest on policy loan indebtedness is not deductible. If an entity (such as a corporation or a trust, not an individual) purchases a policy or is the beneficiary of a policy issued after June 8, 1997, a portion of the interest on indebtedness unrelated to the policy may not be deductible by the entity. However, this rule does not apply to a policy owned by an entity engaged in a trade or business which covers the life of one individual who is either (i) a 20-percent owner of the entity, or (ii) an officer, director, or employee of the trade or business, at the time first covered by the policy. This rule also does not apply to a policy owned by an entity engaged in a trade or business which covers the joint lives of the 20% owner of the entity and the owner's spouse at the time first covered by the policy.

In the case of an "employer-owned life insurance contract" as defined in the tax law that is issued (or deemed to be issued) after August 17, 2006, the portion of the benefit excludable from gross income generally will be limited to the premiums paid for the contract. However, this limitation on the death benefit exclusion will not apply if certain notice and consent requirements are satisfied and one of several exceptions is satisfied. These exceptions include


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circumstances in which the death benefit is payable to certain heirs of the insured to acquire an ownership interest in a business, or where the contract covers the life of a director or an insured who is "highly compensated" within the meaning of the tax law. These rules, including the definition of an employer-owned life insurance contract, are complex, and you should consult with your advisers for guidance as to their application.

Federal Income Tax Withholding. We will withhold and remit to the IRS a part of the taxable portion of each distribution made under a policy unless you notify us in writing at or before the time of the distribution that tax is not to be withheld. Regardless of whether you request that no taxes be withheld or whether the Company withholds a sufficient amount of taxes, you will be responsible for the payment of any taxes and early distribution penalties that may be due on the amounts received. You may also be required to pay penalties under the estimated tax rules, if your withholding and estimated tax payments are insufficient to satisfy your total tax liability.

Unearned Income Medicare Contribution. Congress enacted the "Unearned Income Medicare Contribution" as a part of the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010. This new tax, which affects individuals whose modified adjusted gross income exceeds certain thresholds, is a 3.8% tax on the lesser of (i) the individual's "unearned income," or (ii) the dollar amount by which the individual's modified adjusted gross income exceeds the applicable threshold. Unearned income includes the taxable portion of any annuitized distributions that you take from your policy, but does not apply to any lump sum distribution, full surrender, or other non-annuitized distribution. The tax is effective for tax years beginning after December 31, 2012. Please consult your tax advisor to determine whether any distributions you take from the policy are subject to this tax.

Changes in the Policy and Changes in the Law. Changing the owner, exchanging the contract, and other changes under the policy may have tax consequences (in addition to those discussed herein) depending on the circumstances of such change. The above discussion is based on the Code, IRS regulations, and interpretations existing on the date of this Prospectus. However, Congress, the IRS, and the courts may modify these authorities, sometimes retroactively.

Reportable Policy Sales. Section 6050Y, added to the Code on December 22, 2017, imposes information reporting requirements on the acquirer and issuer in the case of the acquisition, or notice of the acquisition, of an existing life insurance contract in a reportable policy sale. In addition, there is a new reporting requirement on each person who makes a payment of reportable death benefits. A reportable policy sale means the acquisition of an interest in a life insurance contract, directly or indirectly, where the acquirer has no substantial family, business, or financial relationship with the insured apart from the acquirer's interest in such life insurance contract. A reportable death benefit means the amount paid by reason of the death of the insured under a life insurance contract that has been transferred in a reportable policy sale.

The IRS and Treasury issued Final Regulations under section 6050Y in 2019. Under the Regulations, compliance with 6050Y is required for any reportable policy sale that occurred after December 31, 2018, and any reportable death benefits paid after December 31, 2018.

Tax Status of Lincoln Life

Under existing Federal income tax laws, Lincoln Life does not pay tax on investment income and realized capital gains of the Separate Account. However, the Company does expect, to the extent permitted under Federal Law, to claim the benefit of the foreign tax credit as the owner of the assets of the Separate Account. Lincoln Life does not expect that it will incur any Federal income tax liability on the income and gains earned by the Separate Account. We, therefore, do not impose a charge for Federal income taxes. If Federal income tax law changes and we must pay tax on some or all of the income and gains earned by the Separate Account, we may impose a charge against the Separate Account to pay the taxes.


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Fair Market Value of Your Policy

It is sometimes necessary for tax and other reasons to determine the "value" of your policy. The value can be measured differently for different purposes. It is not necessarily the same as the accumulation value or the net accumulation value. You, as the owner, should consult with your advisers for guidance as to the appropriate methodology for determining the fair market value of the policy.

Voting Rights

The funds do not hold regularly scheduled shareholder meetings. When a fund holds a special meeting for the purpose of approving changes in the ownership or operation of the fund, the Company is entitled to vote the shares held by our subaccount invested in that fund. Under our current interpretation of applicable law, you may instruct us how to vote those shares. If the 1940 Act or any other regulation under it should be amended or if present interpretations should change, and if as a result we determine that we are permitted to vote the fund shares in our own right, we may elect to do so.

Will we notify you when your instructions are needed and will provide information from the fund about the matters requiring the special meeting. We calculate the number of votes for which you may instruct us based on the amount you have allocated to that subaccount, and the value of a share of the corresponding fund, as of a date chosen by the fund (record date). If we receive instructions from you, we will follow those instructions in voting the shares attributable to your policy. If we do not receive instructions from you, we will vote the shares attributable to your policy in the same proportion as we vote other shares based on instructions received from other policy owners. Since funds may also offer their shares to entities other than the Company, those other entities also may vote shares of the funds, and those votes may affect the outcome.

Each fund is subject to the laws of the state in which it is organized concerning, among other things, the matters which are subject to a shareholder vote, the number of shares which must be present in person or by proxy at a meeting of shareholders (a "quorum"), and the percentage of such shares present in person or by proxy which must vote in favor of matters presented. Because shares of the fund held in the Separate Account are owned by the Company, and because under the 1940 Act the Company will vote all such shares in the same proportion as the voting instructions which we receive, it is important that each policy owner provide their voting instructions to the Company. For funds un-affiliated with Lincoln, even though policy owners may choose not to provide voting instructions, the shares of the fund to which such policy owners would have been entitled to provide voting instructions will be voted by the Company in the same proportion as the voting instructions which we actually receive. For funds affiliated with Lincoln, shares of a fund to which such policy owners would have been entitled to provide voting instructions will, once we receive a sufficient number of instructions we deem appropriate to ensure a fair representation of policy owners eligible to vote, be voted on by the Company in the same proportion as the voting instructions which we actually receive. As a result, the instructions of a small number of policy owners could determine the outcome of matters subject to shareholder vote. In addition, because the Company expects to vote all shares of the fund which it owns at a meeting of the shareholders of the fund, all shares voted by the company will be counted when the fund determines whether any requirement for a minimum number of shares be present at such a meeting to satisfy a quorum requirement has been met.

State Regulation of Lincoln Life and the Separate Account

Lincoln Life, a stock life insurance company organized under the laws of Indiana, is subject to regulation by the Indiana Department of Insurance ("Department"). An annual statement is filed with the Department on or before March 1st of each year covering the operations and reporting on the financial condition of Lincoln Life as of December 31 of the preceding year. Periodically, the Department examines the liabilities and reserves of Lincoln Life and the Separate Account and certifies their adequacy, and a full examination of Lincoln Life's operations is conducted by the Department at least once every five years.


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In addition, we are subject to the insurance laws and regulations of other states within which it is licensed or may become licensed to operate. Generally, the Insurance Department of any other state applies the laws of the state of domicile in determining permissible investments.

Safekeeping of the Separate Account's Assets

Lincoln Life holds title to the assets of the Separate Account. The assets are kept physically segregated and held separate and apart from the General Account assets. Records are maintained of all purchases and redemptions of fund shares held by each subaccount. Lincoln maintains a fidelity bond issued by AIG with a limit of $15,000,000 for a single loss and $30,000,000 in the aggregate.

The funds do not issue certificates. Thus, we hold the Separate Account's assets in an open account in lieu of stock certificates.

Legal Proceedings

In the ordinary course of its business and otherwise, the Company and its subsidiaries or its separate accounts and Principal Underwriter may become or are involved in various pending or threatened regulatory or legal proceedings, including purported class actions, arising from the conduct of its business. In some instances, the proceedings include claims for unspecified or substantial punitive damages and similar types of relief in addition to amounts for alleged contractual liability or requests for equitable relief.

After consultation with legal counsel and a review of available facts, it is management's opinion that the proceedings, after consideration of any reserves and rights to indemnification, ultimately will be resolved without any material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position of the Company and its subsidiaries, or the financial position of its separate accounts or Principal Underwriter. However, given the large and indeterminate amounts sought in certain of these proceedings and the inherent difficulty in predicting the outcome of such proceedings, it is reasonably possible that an adverse outcome in certain matters could be material to the Company's operating results for any particular reporting period.

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, One Commerce Square, 2005 Market Street, Suite 700, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19103, has audited a) the financial statements of each of the subaccounts listed in the appendix to the opinion that comprise the Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G, as of December 31, 2023, the related statements of operations and the statements of changes in net assets for each of the periods indicated in the appendix to the opinion; and b) the consolidated financial statements of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023 as set forth in their reports, which are included in this Registration Statement. The aforementioned financial statements are included herein in reliance on Ernst & Young LLP's reports, given on their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

Experts

Actuarial matters included in this Prospectus have been examined by Thomas Mylander, FSA, MAAA, as stated in the Actuarial Opinion filed as an exhibit to this Registration Statement.

Legal matters in connection with the policies described herein are being passed upon by Jassmin McIver-Jones as stated in the Opinion of Counsel filed as an exhibit to this Registration Statement.


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Officers and Directors of the Lincoln National Life Insurance Company

Name, Address and
Position(s) with Registrant
 

Principal Occupations Last Five Years

 
Craig T. Beazer
Executive Vice President, General Counsel
150 North Radnor Chester Road
Radnor, PA 19087
 

The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company — Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Director (2/8/2021-Present); Lincoln National Corporation — Executive Vice President and General Counsel (12/28/2020-Present); Lincoln Financial Foundation, Inc. — Director (6/23/2021-Present); First Penn-Pacific — Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Director (2/8/2021-Present).

 
Jayson R. Bronchetti
Executive Vice President, Chief Investment
Officer and Director
150 North Radnor Chester Road
Radnor, PA 19087
 

The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company — Executive Vice President (6/9/2022-Present), Senior Vice President (10/24/2016-6/9/2022), Chief Financial Officer and Director (12-15-2021-Present); Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York — Executive Vice President (6/16/2022-Present), Senior Vice President (10/12/2016-6/16/2022), Director (12/10/2021-Present), Chief Investment Officer (12/27/2021-Present); Lincoln National Corporation — Executive Vice President (6/15/2022-Present), Senior Vice President (9/22/2021-Present), Chief Investment Officer (12/16/2021-Present); Lincoln Variable Insurance Products, Inc. — President (4/15/2016-Present), Chairman and Trustee (6/7/2021-Present); Lincoln National Reinsurance Company (Barbados) Limited — Senior Vice President (9/22/2021-Present); First Penn-Pacific Life Insurance Company — Executive Vice President (6/9/2022-Present), Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Director (12/21/21-6/9/2022); Jefferson-Pilot Investment, Inc. — President (1/10/2022-Present), Director (12/15/2021-Present); Lincoln Assignment Corporation — Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director (1/5/2022-Present); Lincoln Financial Foundation — Director (1/12/2022-Present); Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation — President (4/15/2016-Present), Director (5/23/17-Present); Lincoln Investment Management Company — President, Chief Investment Officer (1/10/2022-Present), Senior Vice President (9/21/2021-1/10/2022), Director (1/3/2022-Present); Lincoln Investment Solutions, Inc. — President and Chief Investment Officer (12/21/2021-Present), Senior Vice President (9/22/2021-12/21/2021), Director (12/15/2021-Present).

 
Adam M. Cohen
Senior Vice President and
Chief Accounting Officer
150 North Radnor
Chester Road
Radnor, PA 19087
 

The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company — Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer (3/9/2022-Present); Lincoln National Corporation — Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer (3/9/2022-Present); Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York — Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer (3/9/2022-Present); First Penn-Pacific Life Insurance Company — Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer (3/9/2022-Present).

 


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Name, Address and
Position(s) with Registrant
 

Principal Occupations Last Five Years

 
Ellen G. Cooper
President and Director
150 North Radnor Chester Road
Radnor, PA 19087
 

The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company — President (5/16/2022-Present), Executive Vice President (8/20/2012-5/16/2022), Director (8/20/2012-Present); Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York — President (5/16/2022-Present), Executive Vice President (8/6/2012-5/16/2022), Director (8/6/2012-Present), Chief Investment Officer (8/20/2012-12/27/2021); Lincoln National Corporation — President and Chief Executive Officer (5/27/2022-Present), Executive Vice President (8/6/2012-5/27/2022), Chief Investment Officer (8/20/2012-12/16/2021), Director (5/27/2022-Present); Lincoln National Management Corporation — President (5/16/2022-Present); Lincoln Life Assurance Company of Boston — Executive Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Director (5/1/2018-10/1/2021); Lincoln Investment Solutions — President, Chief Investment Officer and Director (11/12/2012-12/21/2021); First Penn-Pacific Life Insurance Company — President (2/17/2023-Present), Executive Vice President (8/20/2012-2/17/2023), Chief Investment Officer (8/20/2012-12/21/2021), Director (8/20/2021-Present); Lincoln Investment Management Company — President, Chief Investment Officer and Director (11/12/2012-1/10/2022); Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust — Chairman and Trustee (9/24/2015-6/7/2021); Lincoln Assignment Corporation — President (5/16/2022-Present), Executive Vice President (5/1/2018-5/16/2022), Chief Investment Officer (5/1/2018-1/5/2022), Director (5/1/2018-6/28/2022); Lincoln Financial Investments Corporation — Director (7/16/2013-1/13/2022), Chairman (9/24/2015-1/13/2022); Jefferson-Pilot Investments, Inc. — Director (11/12/2012-12/15/2021).

 
Christopher M. Neczypor
Executive Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer and
Director
150 North Radnor Chester Road
Radnor, PA 19087
 

The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company — Executive Vice President (6/9/2022-Present), Senior Vice President (4/30/2018-6/9/2022), Chief Strategy Officer (6/9/2022-2/17/2023), Chief Financial Officer (2/17/2023-Present), Director (2/17/2023-Present); Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York — Executive Vice President (6/15/2022-Present), Senior vice President (4/30/2018-6/15/2022), Chief Strategy Officer (6/15/2022-2/17/2023), Chief Financial Officer (2/17/2023-Present), Director (2/17/2023-Present); Lincoln National Corporation — Executive Vice President (6/15/2022-Present), Senior Vice President (4/30/2018-6/15/2022), Chief Strategy Officer (6/15/2022-2/17/2023), Chief Financial Officer (2/17/2023-Present); First Penn-Pacific Life Insurance Company — Executive Vice President (6/9/2022-Present), Chief Financial Officer and Director (2/17/2023-Present), Chief Strategy Officer (6/9/2022-2/17/2023); Jefferson-Pilot Investments, Inc. — Director (3/15/2021-Present); Lincoln Assignment Corporation — Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director (2/17/2023-Present); Lincoln Financial Foundation, Inc. — Director (3/28/2022-Present); Lincoln Investment Management Company — Senior Vice President (5/4/2018-Present), Director (5/23/2018-5/16/2022).

 


46


Name, Address and
Position(s) with Registrant
 

Principal Occupations Last Five Years

 
Eric B. Wilmer
Assistant Vice President and
Director
1301 South Harrison Street
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
 

The Lincoln Life National Life Insurance Company — Assistant Vice President (9/21/2016-Present), Director (1/18/2023-Present); Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont I — Secretary (12/31/2021-Present); Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont III — Secretary (12/31/2021-Present); Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont IV — Secretary (12/31/2021-Present); Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont V — Secretary (12/31/2021-Present); Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont VI — Secretary (12/31/2021-Present); Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont VII — Secretary (12/31/2021-Present); Lincoln Reinsurance Company of South Carolina — Secretary (12/31/2021-Present); Lincoln National Reinsurance Company (Barbados) Limited — Assistant Vice President (9/19/2019-Present), Secretary (12/31/2021-Present); Lincoln National Corporation — Assistant Vice President (9/21/2016-Present); Lincoln Life Assurance Company of Boston — Assistant Vice President (6/11/2018-10/21/2021); Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York — Assistant Vice President (7/22/2019-Present); Lincoln Assignment Corporation — Assistant Vice President (6/26/2018-Present); Lincoln Financial Limited Liability Company I — Secretary (12/31/2021-Present); Lincoln financial Reinsurance Company of Vermont — Secretary (12/31/2021-Present); First Penn-Pacific Life Insurance Company — Assistant Vice President (7/22/2018-Present), Director (1/18/2023-Present).

 

Additional Information

A registration statement has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, with respect to the policy offered hereby. This prospectus does not contain all the information set forth in the registration statement and the amendments and exhibits to such registration statement, to all of which reference is made for further information concerning the Separate Account, Lincoln Life and the policy offered hereby. Statements contained in this prospectus as to the contents of the policy and other legal instruments are summaries. For a complete statement of the terms thereof reference is made to such instruments as filed.

You may review or copy this prospectus or obtain other information about the Separate Account at the Securities and Exchange Commission's Public Reference Room. You should contact the SEC at (202) 551-8090 to obtain information regarding days and hours the reference room is open. You may also view information at the SEC's Internet site, http://www.sec.gov. Copies of information may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by writing the Public Reference Section, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549-0102.

This prospectus, with the funds prospectuses, are also available on www.lfg.com/VULprospectus.

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G
1933 Act Registration No. 033-22740
1940 Act Registration No. 811-05585


47


Appendix A

BASE MINIMUM PREMIUMS
PER $1,000 OF SPECIFIED AMOUNT*
MALE (OR UNISEX), AGE ON POLICY DATE

Prf NS = Preferred nonsmoker
Std NS = Standard nonsmoker
Prf SM = Preferred smoker
Std SM = Standard smoker

Age

 

Prf NS

 

Std NS

 

Prf SM

 

Std SM

 

Age

 

Prf NS

 

Std NS

 

Prf SM

 

Std SM

 
 

0

     

**

     

3.62

     

**

     

**

                                       
 

1

             

2.12

                     

41

     

8.33

     

8.81

     

11.82

     

12.18

   
 

2

             

2.12

                     

42

     

8.80

     

9.28

     

12.88

     

13.24

   
 

3

             

2.12

                     

43

     

9.17

     

9.77

     

13.81

     

14.29

   
 

4

             

2.12

                     

44

     

9.69

     

10.29

     

15.17

     

15.53

   
 

5

             

2.12

                     

45

     

10.12

     

10.84

     

16.46

     

16.94

   
 

6

             

2.12

                     

46

     

10.59

     

11.43

     

17.58

     

18.18

   
 

7

             

2.12

                     

47

     

11.34

     

12.18

     

18.69

     

19.41

   
 

8

             

2.13

                     

48

     

11.98

     

13.06

     

20.10

     

20.82

   
 

9

             

2.21

                     

49

     

12.86

     

13.94

     

21.52

     

22.24

   
 

10

             

2.31

                     

50

     

13.80

     

15.00

     

22.98

     

23.82

   
 

11

             

2.41

                     

51

     

14.92

     

16.24

     

24.75

     

25.59

   
 

12

             

2.65

                     

52

     

16.03

     

17.47

     

26.57

     

27.53

   
 

13

             

3.00

                     

53

     

17.27

     

18.71

     

28.74

     

29.82

   
 

14

             

3.18

                     

54

     

18.73

     

20.29

     

31.04

     

32.12

   
 

15

             

3.35

                     

55

     

20.26

     

22.06

     

33.39

     

34.59

   
 

16

     

3.59

     

3.71

     

4.29

     

4.41

     

56

     

21.90

     

23.82

     

35.66

     

36.98

   
 

17

     

3.94

     

4.06

     

4.64

     

4.76

     

57

     

23.72

     

25.76

     

36.62

     

38.06

   
 

18

     

4.12

     

4.24

     

4.82

     

4.94

     

58

     

25.72

     

27.88

     

37.59

     

39.15

   
 

19

     

4.12

     

4.24

     

4.82

     

4.94

     

59

     

27.78

     

30.18

     

38.68

     

40.36

   
 

20

     

4.12

     

4.24

     

5.00

     

5.12

     

60

     

30.13

     

32.65

     

39.90

     

41.70

   
 

21

     

4.12

     

4.24

     

5.05

     

5.29

     

61

     

32.83

     

35.47

     

41.25

     

43.17

   
 

22

     

4.12

     

4.24

     

5.05

     

5.29

     

62

     

34.55

     

37.43

     

42.79

     

44.83

   
 

23

     

4.12

     

4.24

     

5.23

     

5.47

     

63

     

35.58

     

38.70

     

44.46

     

46.74

   
 

24

     

4.12

     

4.24

     

5.41

     

5.65

     

64

     

36.80

     

40.04

     

46.01

     

48.65

   
 

25

     

4.12

     

4.24

     

5.41

     

5.65

     

65

     

38.03

     

41.51

     

47.93

     

50.57

   
 

26

     

4.17

     

4.29

     

5.41

     

5.65

     

66

     

39.32

     

43.04

     

49.73

     

52.61

   
 

27

     

4.36

     

4.48

     

5.41

     

5.65

     

67

     

40.80

     

44.64

     

51.53

     

54.65

   
 

28

     

4.57

     

4.69

     

5.41

     

5.65

     

68

     

42.34

     

46.42

     

53.46

     

56.82

   
 

29

     

4.78

     

4.90

     

5.60

     

5.84

     

69

     

44.08

     

48.40

     

55.58

     

59.18

   
 

30

     

5.01

     

5.13

     

5.94

     

6.18

     

70

     

46.07

     

50.51

     

57.83

     

61.67

   
 

31

     

5.26

     

5.38

     

6.18

     

6.42

     

71

     

48.06

     

52.74

     

60.20

     

64.28

   
 

32

     

5.52

     

5.64

     

6.50

     

6.74

     

72

     

50.55

     

55.23

     

62.77

     

67.09

   
 

33

     

5.80

     

5.92

     

6.84

     

7.08

     

73

     

53.11

     

58.03

     

65.66

     

70.22

   
 

34

     

6.09

     

6.21

     

7.20

     

7.44

     

74

     

56.43

     

61.35

     

68.93

     

73.85

   
 

35

     

6.40

     

6.52

     

7.58

     

7.82

     

75

     

60.02

     

65.18

     

72.89

     

77.81

   
 

36

     

6.73

     

6.85

     

7.99

     

8.23

     

76

     

63.97

     

69.13

     

77.15

     

81.83

   
 

37

     

7.08

     

7.20

     

8.42

     

8.66

     

77

     

68.06

     

73.22

     

81.16

     

85.72

   
 

38

     

7.21

     

7.57

     

9.11

     

9.35

     

78

     

72.51

     

77.55

     

85.35

     

89.55

   
 

39

     

7.60

     

7.96

     

9.88

     

10.24

     

79

     

77.69

     

82.37

     

89.73

     

93.57

   
 

40

     

8.02

     

8.38

     

10.76

     

11.12

     

80

     

83.61

     

87.93

     

94.48

     

97.84

   

*  To determine the death benefit guarantee monthly premium, multiply the specified amount divided by 1000 times the number shown for the age and classification of the insured, then add $100 per policy and divide the result by 12. Additional amounts are required for riders and/or substandards.

**  This classification is not available below the age of 16.


48


Appendix A

BASE MINIMUM PREMIUMS
PER $1,000 OF SPECIFIED AMOUNT*
FEMALE, AGE ON POLICY DATE

Prf NS = Preferred nonsmoker
Std NS = Standard nonsmoker
Prf SM = Preferred smoker
Std SM = Standard smoker

Age

 

Prf NS

 

Std NS

 

Prf SM

 

Std SM

 

Age

 

Prf NS

 

Std NS

 

Prf SM

 

Std SM

 
 

0

     

**

     

2.98

     

**

                                               
 

1

             

1.76

                     

41

     

7.06

     

7.42

     

9.29

     

9.53

   
 

2

             

1.76

                     

42

     

7.43

     

7.79

     

9.88

     

10.24

   
 

3

             

1.76

                     

43

     

7.70

     

8.18

     

10.58

     

10.94

   
 

4

             

1.76

                     

44

     

7.99

     

8.59

     

11.64

     

12.00

   
 

5

             

1.76

                     

45

     

8.42

     

9.02

     

12.70

     

13.06

   
 

6

             

1.76

                     

46

     

8.76

     

9.48

     

13.46

     

13.94

   
 

7

             

1.76

                     

47

     

9.24

     

9.96

     

14.34

     

14.82

   
 

8

             

1.76

                     

48

     

9.63

     

10.47

     

15.28

     

15.88

   
 

9

             

1.83

                     

49

     

10.06

     

11.02

     

16.52

     

17.12

   
 

10

             

1.90

                     

50

     

10.69

     

11.65

     

17.75

     

18.35

   
 

11

             

1.98

                     

51

     

11.57

     

12.53

     

19.04

     

19.76

   
 

12

             

2.12

                     

52

     

12.33

     

13.41

     

20.46

     

21.18

   
 

13

             

2.15

                     

53

     

13.21

     

14.29

     

21.75

     

22.59

   
 

14

             

2.24

                     

54

     

14.15

     

15.35

     

23.16

     

24.00

   
 

15

             

2.33

                     

55

     

14.92

     

16.24

     

24.57

     

25.41

   
 

16

     

2.30

     

2.42

     

2.76

     

2.88

     

56

     

15.62

     

16.94

     

25.69

     

26.65

   
 

17

     

2.40

     

2.52

     

2.88

     

3.00

     

57

     

16.38

     

17.82

     

26.92

     

27.88

   
 

18

     

2.51

     

2.63

     

2.06

     

3.18

     

58

     

17.15

     

18.71

     

28.04

     

29.12

   
 

19

     

2.62

     

2.74

     

3.13

     

3.25

     

59

     

18.03

     

19.59

     

29.27

     

30.35

   
 

20

     

2.73

     

2.85

     

3.28

     

3.40

     

60

     

19.26

     

20.82

     

31.04

     

32.12

   
 

21

     

2.85

     

2.97

     

3.43

     

3.55

     

61

     

20.73

     

22.41

     

33.21

     

34.41

   
 

22

     

2.98

     

3.10

     

3.58

     

3.70

     

62

     

22.73

     

24.53

     

35.60

     

36.92

   
 

23

     

3.12

     

3.24

     

3.74

     

3.86

     

63

     

25.08

     

27.00

     

36.75

     

38.19

   
 

24

     

3.25

     

3.37

     

3.92

     

4.04

     

64

     

27.61

     

29.65

     

37.97

     

39.53

   
 

25

     

3.41

     

3.53

     

4.10

     

4.22

     

65

     

30.19

     

32.47

     

39.19

     

40.87

   
 

26

     

3.56

     

3.68

     

4.29

     

4.41

     

66

     

32.72

     

35.12

     

40.35

     

42.15

   
 

27

     

3.73

     

3.85

     

4.49

     

4.61

     

67

     

34.52

     

37.04

     

41.38

     

43.42

   
 

28

     

3.90

     

4.02

     

4.71

     

4.83

     

68

     

35.42

     

38.06

     

42.54

     

44.70

   
 

29

     

4.09

     

4.21

     

4.93

     

5.05

     

69

     

36.64

     

39.28

     

43.82

     

46.10

   
 

30

     

4.28

     

4.40

     

5.17

     

5.29

     

70

     

37.86

     

40.74

     

45.43

     

47.83

   
 

31

     

4.37

     

4.61

     

5.42

     

5.54

     

71

     

39.59

     

42.47

     

47.29

     

49.93

   
 

32

     

4.59

     

4.83

     

5.69

     

5.81

     

72

     

41.39

     

44.51

     

49.48

     

52.36

   
 

33

     

4.82

     

5.06

     

5.97

     

6.09

     

73

     

43.63

     

46.87

     

51.98

     

55.10

   
 

34

     

5.06

     

5.30

     

6.27

     

6.39

     

74

     

46.38

     

49.74

     

54.99

     

58.35

   
 

35

     

5.32

     

5.56

     

6.58

     

6.70

     

75

     

49.58

     

53.18

     

58.70

     

62.18

   
 

36

     

5.59

     

5.83

     

6.79

     

7.03

     

76

     

53.16

     

56.88

     

62.66

     

66.14

   
 

37

     

5.76

     

6.12

     

7.14

     

7.38

     

77

     

57.06

     

60.78

     

66.73

     

70.09

   
 

38

     

6.06

     

6.42

     

7.50

     

7.74

     

78

     

61.33

     

65.05

     

71.06

     

74.30

   
 

39

     

6.38

     

6.74

     

7.88

     

8.12

     

79

     

66.30

     

69.90

     

75.89

     

78.89

   
 

40

     

6.71

     

7.07

     

8.58

     

8.82

     

80

     

71.98

     

75.58

     

81.17

     

83.93

   

*  To determine the death benefit guarantee monthly premium, multiply the specified amount divided by 1000 times the number shown for the age and classification of the insured, then add $100.00 per policy and divide the result by 12. Additional amounts are required for riders and/or substandards.

**  This classification is not available below the age of 16.


49


Appendix B

SURRENDER CHARGES
PER $1,000 OF SPECIFIED AMOUNT
MALE (OR UNISEX), AGE ON POLICY DATE*

Prf NS = Preferred nonsmoker
Std NS = Standard nonsmoker
Prf SM = Preferred smoker
Std SM = Standard smoker

Age

 

Prf NS

 

Std NS

 

Prf SM

 

Std SM

 

Age

 

Prf NS

 

Std NS

 

Prf SM

 

Std SM

 
 

0

     

**

     

3.20

     

**

     

**

                                       
 

1

             

2.54

                     

41

     

9.98

     

10.56

     

14.18

     

14.60

   
 

2

             

2.54

                     

42

     

10.54

     

11.12

     

15.44

     

15.88

   
 

3

             

2.54

                     

43

     

11.00

     

11.72

     

16.56

     

17.14

   
 

4

             

2.54

                     

44

     

11.62

     

12.34

     

18.20

     

18.62

   
 

5

             

2.54

                     

45

     

12.14

     

13.00

     

19.74

     

20.32

   
 

6

             

2.54

                     

46

     

12.70

     

13.72

     

21.08

     

21.80

   
 

7

             

2.54

                     

47

     

13.60

     

14.60

     

22.42

     

23.28

   
 

8

             

2.54

                     

48

     

14.36

     

15.66

     

24.12

     

24.98

   
 

9

             

2.64

                     

49

     

15.42

     

16.72

     

25.82

     

26.68

   
 

10

             

2.76

                     

50

     

16.56

     

18.00

     

27.58

     

28.58

   
 

11

             

2.88

                     

51

     

17.90

     

19.48

     

29.68

     

30.70

   
 

12

             

3.16

                     

52

     

19.22

     

20.96

     

31.88

     

33.02

   
 

13

             

3.60

                     

53

     

20.72

     

22.44

     

34.48

     

35.78

   
 

14

             

3.80

                     

54

     

22.48

     

24.34

     

37.24

     

38.54

   
 

15

             

4.02

                     

55

     

24.30

     

26.46

     

40.06

     

41.50

   
 

16

     

4.30

     

4.44

     

5.14

     

5.28

     

56

     

26.28

     

28.58

     

42.78

     

44.00

   
 

17

     

4.72

     

4.86

     

5.56

     

5.70

     

57

     

28.46

     

30.90

     

43.94

     

44.00

   
 

18

     

4.94

     

5.08

     

5.78

     

5.92

     

58

     

30.86

     

33.46

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

19

     

4.94

     

5.08

     

5.78

     

5.92

     

59

     

33.32

     

36.20

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

20

     

4.94

     

5.08

     

5.98

     

6.14

     

60

     

36.14

     

39.16

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

21

     

4.94

     

5.08

     

6.06

     

6.34

     

61

     

39.38

     

42.56

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

22

     

4.94

     

5.08

     

6.06

     

6.34

     

62

     

41.44

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

23

     

4.94

     

5.08

     

6.26

     

6.56

     

63

     

42.70

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

24

     

4.94

     

5.08

     

6.48

     

6.76

     

64

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

25

     

4.94

     

5.08

     

6.48

     

6.76

     

65

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

26

     

5.00

     

5.14

     

6.48

     

6.76

     

66

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

27

     

5.22

     

5.38

     

6.48

     

6.76

     

67

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

28

     

5.48

     

5.62

     

6.48

     

6.76

     

68

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

29

     

5.74

     

5.88

     

6.70

     

7.00

     

69

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

30

     

6.00

     

6.16

     

7.12

     

7.40

     

70

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

31

     

6.30

     

6.44

     

7.40

     

7.70

     

71

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

32

     

6.62

     

6.76

     

7.78

     

8.08

     

72

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

33

     

6.96

     

7.10

     

8.20

     

8.48

     

73

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

34

     

7.30

     

7.44

     

8.64

     

8.92

     

74

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

35

     

7.68

     

7.82

     

9.08

     

9.38

     

75

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

36

     

8.06

     

8.22

     

9.58

     

9.86

     

76

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

37

     

8.50

     

8.64

     

10.10

     

10.38

     

77

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

38

     

8.64

     

9.08

     

10.92

     

11.22

     

78

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

39

     

9.12

     

9.54

     

11.84

     

12.28

     

79

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

40

     

9.62

     

10.04

     

12.90

     

13.34

     

80

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   

+  In the first policy year, the applicable surrender charge will be one-half of the surrender charge listed above.

*  For requested increases in the specified amount, the applicable surrender charge is based on the age the increase is effective and in the first year after the increase will be one-fourth of the corresponding surrender charge listed above, and in subsequent years will be one-half that of the corresponding surrender charge listed above.

**  This classification is not available below the age of 16.


50


Appendix B

SURRENDER CHARGES
PER $1,000 OF SPECIFIED AMOUNT
FEMALE, AGE ON POLICY DATE*

Prf NS = Preferred nonsmoker
Std NS = Standard nonsmoker
Prf SM = Preferred smoker
Std SM = Standard smoker

Age

 

Prf NS

 

Std NS

 

Prf SM

 

Std SM

 

Age

 

Prf NS

 

Std NS

 

Prf SM

 

Std SM

 
 

0

     

**

     

2.64

     

**

     

**

                                       
 

1

             

2.10

                     

41

     

8.46

     

8.90

     

11.14

     

11.42

   
 

2

             

2.10

                     

42

     

8.90

     

9.34

     

11.84

     

12.28

   
 

3

             

2.10

                     

43

     

9.22

     

9.80

     

12.68

     

13.12

   
 

4

             

2.10

                     

44

     

9.58

     

10.30

     

13.96

     

14.40

   
 

5

             

2.10

                     

45

     

10.10

     

10.82

     

15.24

     

15.66

   
 

6

             

2.10

                     

46

     

10.50

     

11.36

     

16.14

     

16.72

   
 

7

             

2.10

                     

47

     

11.08

     

11.94

     

17.20

     

17.78

   
 

8

             

2.10

                     

48

     

11.56

     

12.56

     

18.34

     

19.06

   
 

9

             

2.18

                     

49

     

12.06

     

13.22

     

19.82

     

20.54

   
 

10

             

2.28

                     

50

     

12.82

     

13.96

     

21.30

     

22.02

   
 

11

             

2.38

                     

51

     

13.88

     

15.02

     

22.84

     

23.70

   
 

12

             

2.54

                     

52

     

14.80

     

16.08

     

24.54

     

25.40

   
 

13

             

2.56

                     

53

     

15.84

     

17.14

     

26.08

     

27.10

   
 

14

             

2.68

                     

54

     

16.98

     

18.42

     

27.78

     

28.80

   
 

15

             

2.78

                     

55

     

17.90

     

19.48

     

29.48

     

30.48

   
 

16

     

2.76

     

2.90

     

3.30

     

3.44

     

56

     

18.74

     

20.32

     

30.82

     

31.96

   
 

17

     

2.88

     

3.02

     

3.44

     

3.60

     

57

     

19.66

     

21.38

     

32.30

     

33.46

   
 

18

     

3.00

     

3.14

     

3.66

     

3.80

     

58

     

20.56

     

22.44

     

33.64

     

34.94

   
 

19

     

3.14

     

3.28

     

3.76

     

3.90

     

59

     

21.62

     

23.50

     

35.12

     

36.42

   
 

20

     

3.28

     

3.42

     

3.92

     

4.06

     

60

     

23.10

     

24.98

     

37.24

     

38.54

   
 

21

     

3.42

     

3.56

     

4.10

     

4.24

     

61

     

24.88

     

26.88

     

39.84

     

41.28

   
 

22

     

3.56

     

3.72

     

4.28

     

4.44

     

62

     

27.26

     

29.42

     

42.70

     

44.00

   
 

23

     

3.74

     

3.88

     

4.48

     

4.62

     

63

     

30.08

     

32.40

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

24

     

3.90

     

4.04

     

4.70

     

4.84

     

64

     

33.12

     

35.56

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

25

     

4.08

     

4.22

     

4.90

     

5.06

     

65

     

36.22

     

38.96

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

26

     

4.26

     

4.42

     

5.14

     

5.28

     

66

     

39.26

     

42.14

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

27

     

4.46

     

4.62

     

5.38

     

5.52

     

67

     

41.42

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

28

     

4.68

     

4.82

     

5.64

     

5.78

     

68

     

42.50

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

29

     

4.90

     

5.04

     

5.92

     

6.06

     

69

     

43.96

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

30

     

5.14

     

5.28

     

6.20

     

6.34

     

70

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

31

     

5.24

     

5.52

     

6.50

     

6.64

     

71

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

32

     

5.50

     

5.78

     

6.82

     

6.96

     

72

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

33

     

5.78

     

6.06

     

7.16

     

7.30

     

73

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

34

     

6.06

     

6.36

     

7.52

     

7.66

     

74

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

35

     

6.38

     

6.66

     

7.90

     

8.04

     

75

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

36

     

6.70

     

7.00

     

8.14

     

8.42

     

76

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

37

     

6.90

     

7.34

     

8.56

     

8.84

     

77

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

38

     

7.26

     

7.70

     

9.00

     

9.28

     

78

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

39

     

7.64

     

8.08

     

9.46

     

9.74

     

79

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   
 

40

     

8.04

     

8.48

     

10.30

     

10.58

     

80

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

     

44.00

   

+  In the first policy year, the applicable surrender charge will be one-half of the surrender charge listed above.

*  For requested increases in the specified amount, the applicable surrender charge is based on the age the increase is effective and in the first year after the increase will be one-fourth of the corresponding surrender charge listed above, and in subsequent years will be one-half that of the corresponding surrender charge listed above.

**  This classification is not available below the age of 16.


51


Appendix C

ILLUSTRATIONS OF POLICY VALUES

The following tables have been prepared to help show how values under the policy change with investment performance. The tables show Type 1 death benefits, policy values, and net cash surrender values for each of the first 10 policy years, and for every five year period thereafter through the thirtieth policy year, assuming that the return on the assets invested in the account were a uniform, gross, after tax, annual rate of 0%, 6%, and 12%. The actual death benefits and net cash surrender values would be different from those shown if a different classification were to be used or if the returns averaged 0%, 6%, and 12% but fluctuated over and under those averages throughout the years. The actual policy values, net cash surrender values and death benefit proceeds could be substantially less than those shown, and may, under certain circumstances, result in the lapse of the policy unless the owner pays more than the stated premium.

The death benefits and net cash surrender values shown on pages using current charges are approximately those likely to be provided under the policy for the investment returns indicated, assuming that the current Cost of Insurance Charges are deducted and that the current Mortality and Expense Risk Charge is deducted. Although the contract allows for maximum Cost of Insurance Charges specified in the 1980 Commissioners Standard Ordinary Smoker and Nonsmoker tables and for a Maximum Mortality and Expense Risk Charge of .90% per year, Lincoln Life expects that it will continue to charge the current Cost of Insurance Charges and the illustrated current Mortality and Expense Risk Charge for the indefinite future. The figures shown on pages using guaranteed maximum charges show the death benefits and net cash surrender values which would result if the guaranteed maximum Cost of Insurance Charges and the guaranteed Maximum Mortality and Expense Risk Charge were to be deducted. However, these are primarily of interest only to show by comparison the benefits of the lower current Cost of Insurance Charges and lower current Mortality and Expense Risk Charge.

In each of the illustrations an assumed gross annual return is indicated. The gross annual return used in the illustrations is then reduced by the asset management charge (current average .48%), the mortality and expense risk charge (.80% current and .90% guaranteed), and other expenses incurred by the funds including printing, mailing, Directors' fees, etc. (current average .04%) so that the actual numbers in the illustrations are net of expenses. Thus, a 12% gross annual return yields a net annual return of 10.68% using current charges and 10.58% using guaranteed charges. Similarly, gross annual returns of 6% and 0% yield net annual returns of 4.68% and -1.32% respectively using current charges and 4.58% and -1.42% respectively using guaranteed charges.


52


VUL III

FLEXIBLE PREMIUM VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE
MALE ISSUE AGE 35
STANDARD NONSMOKER
$100,000 SPECIFIED AMOUNT
$1,325 ANNUAL PREMIUM USING CURRENT CHARGES

End
   of
Policy
  Premiums
Accumulated
at
5% Interest
  Death Benefit
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Policy Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Net Cash Surrender Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
 

Year

 

Per Year

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 
 

1

   

$

1,391

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

994

   

$

1,060

   

$

1,127

   

$

603

   

$

669

   

$

736

   
 

2

     

2,852

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

1,965

     

2,159

     

2,362

     

1,183

     

1,377

     

1,580

   
 

3

     

4,386

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

2,925

     

3,311

     

3,729

     

2,143

     

2,529

     

2,947

   
 

4

     

5,996

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

3,851

     

4,494

     

5,219

     

3,069

     

3,712

     

4,437

   
 

5

     

7,688

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

4,756

     

5,724

     

6,858

     

3,974

     

4,942

     

6,076

   
 

6

     

9,463

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

5,640

     

7,001

     

8,662

     

4,897

     

6,258

     

7,919

   
 

7

     

11,328

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

6,491

     

8,317

     

10,637

     

5,788

     

7,613

     

9,933

   
 

8

     

13,285

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

7,323

     

9,687

     

12,815

     

6,659

     

9,022

     

12,150

   
 

9

     

15,341

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

8,125

     

11,101

     

15,206

     

7,499

     

10,476

     

14,581

   
 

10

     

17,499

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

8,896

     

12,564

     

17,837

     

8,349

     

12,017

     

17,289

   
 

15

     

30,021

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

12,266

     

20,649

     

35,579

     

12,110

     

20,493

     

35,422

   
 

20

     

46,003

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

101,828

     

14,754

     

30,253

     

64,858

     

14,754

     

30,253

     

64,858

   
 

25

     

66,400

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

151,550

     

16,028

     

41,657

     

113,097

     

16,028

     

41,657

     

113,097

   
 

30

     

92,433

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

233,689

     

15,526

     

55,339

     

191,548

     

15,526

     

55,339

     

191,548

   

The hypothetical rates of return shown above and elsewhere in this prospectus are illustrative only and should not be deemed a representation of past or future investment rates of return. Actual rates of return may be more or less than those shown. The death benefits and cash value for a contract would be different from those shown if the actual gross annual return averaged 0.00%, 6.00% and 12.00% over a period of years, but also fluctuated above or below those averages for individual contract years. The actual policy values, net cash surrender values and death benefit proceeds could be substantially less than those shown, and may, under certain circumstances, result in the lapse of the policy unless the owner pays more than the stated premium. No representations can be made by Lincoln Life or any of the funds that these hypothetical rates of return can be achieved for any one year or sustained over any period of time. Values illustrated are net of a .48% asset management charge, a .80% current mortality and expense risk charge and other expenses estimated at .04%. Values illustrated are also net of any other applicable contract charges.


53


VUL III

FLEXIBLE PREMIUM VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE
MALE ISSUE AGE 35
STANDARD NONSMOKER
$100,000 SPECIFIED AMOUNT
$1,325 ANNUAL PREMIUM USING GUARANTEED CHARGES

End
   of
Policy
  Premiums
Accumulated
at
5% Interest
  Death Benefit
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Policy Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Net Cash Surrender Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
 

Year

 

Per Year

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 
 

1

   

$

1,391

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

988

   

$

1,054

   

$

1,120

   

$

597

   

$

663

   

$

729

   
 

2

     

2,852

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

1,955

     

2,149

     

2,350

     

1,173

     

1,367

     

1,568

   
 

3

     

4,386

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

2,899

     

3,283

     

3,698

     

2,117

     

2,501

     

2,916

   
 

4

     

5,996

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

3,818

     

4,458

     

5,177

     

3,036

     

3,676

     

4,395

   
 

5

     

7,688

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

4,714

     

5,674

     

6,799

     

3,932

     

4,892

     

6,017

   
 

6

     

9,463

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

5,583

     

6,933

     

8,578

     

4,840

     

6,190

     

7,835

   
 

7

     

11,328

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

6,425

     

8,234

     

10,530

     

5,721

     

7,531

     

9,826

   
 

8

     

13,285

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

7,240

     

9,580

     

12,673

     

6,575

     

8,916

     

12,008

   
 

9

     

15,341

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

8,026

     

10,972

     

15,027

     

7,401

     

10,346

     

14,401

   
 

10

     

17,499

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

8,783

     

12,410

     

17,614

     

8,236

     

11,862

     

17,067

   
 

15

     

30,021

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

12,072

     

20,327

     

35,003

     

11,915

     

20,171

     

34,847

   
 

20

     

46,003

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

14,295

     

29,507

     

63,427

     

14,295

     

29,507

     

63,427

   
 

25

     

66,400

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

147,258

     

14,846

     

39,923

     

109,894

     

14,846

     

39,923

     

109,894

   
 

30

     

92,433

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

225,187

     

12,671

     

51,631

     

184,580

     

12,671

     

51,631

     

184,580

   

The hypothetical rates of return shown above and elsewhere in this prospectus are illustrative only and should not be deemed a representation of past or future investment rates of return. Actual rates of return may be more or less than those shown. The death benefit and cash value for a contract would be different from those shown if the actual gross annual return averaged 0.00%, and 6.00% and 12.00% over a period of years, but also fluctuated above or below those averages for individual contract years. The actual policy values, net cash surrender values and death benefit proceeds could be substantially less than those shown, and may, under certain circumstances, result in the lapse of the policy unless the owner pays more than the stated premium. No representations can be made by Lincoln National or any of the funds that these hypothetical rates of return can be achieved for any one year or sustained over any period of time. Values illustrated are net of a .48% asset management charge, a .90% guaranteed maximum mortality and expense risk charge and other expenses estimated at .04%. Values illustrated are also net of any other applicable contract charges.


54


VUL III

FLEXIBLE PREMIUM VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE
MALE ISSUE AGE 35
STANDARD SMOKER
$100,000 SPECIFIED AMOUNT
$1,705 ANNUAL PREMIUM USING CURRENT CHARGES

End
   of
Policy
  Premiums
Accumulated
at
5% Interest
  Death Benefit
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Policy Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Net Cash Surrender Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
 

Year

 

Per Year

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 
 

1

   

$

1,790

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

1,277

   

$

1,362

   

$

1,448

   

$

808

   

$

893

   

$

979

   
 

2

     

3,670

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

2,517

     

2,767

     

3,027

     

1,579

     

1,829

     

2,089

   
 

3

     

5,644

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

3,722

     

4,217

     

4,753

     

2,784

     

3,279

     

3,815

   
 

4

     

7,716

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

4,902

     

5,726

     

6,655

     

3,964

     

4,788

     

5,717

   
 

5

     

9,892

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

6,037

     

7,276

     

8,728

     

5,099

     

6,338

     

7,790

   
 

6

     

12,177

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

7,140

     

8,880

     

11,005

     

6,249

     

7,989

     

10,114

   
 

7

     

14,576

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

8,199

     

10,531

     

13,498

     

7,354

     

9,687

     

12,654

   
 

8

     

17,095

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

9,216

     

12,233

     

16,232

     

8,418

     

11,435

     

15,435

   
 

9

     

19,740

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

10,192

     

13,989

     

19,236

     

9,441

     

13,239

     

18,486

   
 

10

     

22,518

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

11,128

     

15,804

     

22,542

     

10,471

     

15,147

     

21,886

   
 

15

     

38,631

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

15,124

     

25,795

     

44,916

     

14,936

     

25,608

     

44,729

   
 

20

     

59,196

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

128,581

     

17,900

     

37,697

     

81,899

     

17,900

     

37,697

     

81,899

   
 

25

     

85,443

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

189,967

     

18,951

     

52,003

     

141,767

     

18,951

     

52,003

     

141,767

   
 

30

     

118,942

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

290,940

     

17,502

     

69,785

     

238,475

     

17,502

     

69,785

     

238,475

   

The hypothetical rates of return shown above and elsewhere in this prospectus are illustrative only and should not be deemed a representation of past or future investment rates of return. Actual rates of return may be more or less than those shown. The death benefits and cash value for a contract would be different from those shown if the actual gross annual return averaged 0.00%, 6.00% and 12.00% over a period of years, but also fluctuated above or below those averages for individual contract years. The actual policy values, net cash surrender values and death benefit proceeds could be substantially less than those shown, and may, under certain circumstances, result in the lapse of the policy unless the owner pays more than the stated premium. No representations can be made by Lincoln Life or any of the funds that these hypothetical rates of return can be achieved for any one year or sustained over any period of time. Values illustrated are net of a .48% asset management charge, a .80% current mortality and expense risk charge and other expenses estimated at .04%. Values illustrated are also net of any other applicable contract charges.


55


VUL III

FLEXIBLE PREMIUM VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE
MALE ISSUE AGE 35
STANDARD SMOKER
$100,000 SPECIFIED AMOUNT
$1,705 ANNUAL PREMIUM USING GUARANTEED CHARGES

End
   of
Policy
  Premiums
Accumulated
at
5% Interest
  Death Benefit
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Policy Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Net Cash Surrender Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
 

Year

 

Per Year

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 
 

1

   

$

1,790

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

1,244

   

$

1,329

   

$

1,413

   

$

775

   

$

860

   

$

944

   
 

2

     

3,670

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

2,455

     

2,701

     

2,957

     

1,517

     

1,763

     

2,019

   
 

3

     

5,644

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

3,629

     

4,115

     

4,641

     

2,691

     

3,177

     

3,703

   
 

4

     

7,716

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

4,763

     

5,570

     

6,480

     

3,825

     

4,632

     

5,542

   
 

5

     

9,892

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

5,855

     

7,066

     

8,486

     

4,917

     

6,128

     

7,548

   
 

6

     

12,177

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

6,902

     

8,601

     

10,674

     

6,011

     

7,710

     

9,783

   
 

7

     

14,576

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

7,903

     

10,175

     

13,064

     

7,058

     

9,331

     

12,220

   
 

8

     

17,095

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

8,854

     

11,788

     

15,675

     

8,056

     

10,991

     

14,878

   
 

9

     

19,740

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

9,753

     

13,439

     

18,532

     

9,003

     

12,689

     

17,781

   
 

10

     

22,518

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

10,598

     

15,128

     

21,658

     

9,941

     

14,472

     

21,002

   
 

15

     

38,631

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

13,949

     

24,188

     

42,599

     

13,761

     

24,000

     

42,411

   
 

20

     

59,196

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

120,654

     

15,415

     

34,239

     

76,849

     

15,415

     

34,239

     

76,849

   
 

25

     

85,443

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

176,239

     

13,993

     

45,212

     

131,522

     

13,993

     

45,212

     

131,522

   
 

30

     

118,942

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

266,276

     

7,998

     

57,417

     

218,259

     

7,998

     

57,417

     

218,259

   

The hypothetical rates of return shown above and elsewhere in this prospectus are illustrative only and should not be deemed a representation of past or future investment rates of return. Actual rates of return may be more or less than those shown. The death benefits and cash value for a contract would be different from those shown if the actual gross annual return averaged 0.00%, 6.00% and 12.00% over a period of years, but also fluctuated above or below those averages for individual contract years. The actual policy values, net cash surrender values and death benefit proceeds could be substantially less than those shown, and may, under certain circumstances, result in the lapse of the policy unless the owner pays more than the stated premium. No representations can be made by Lincoln Life or any of the funds that these hypothetical rates of return can be achieved for any one year or sustained over any period of time. Values illustrated are net of a .48% asset management charge, a .90% guaranteed maximum mortality and expense risk charge and other expenses estimated at .04%. Values illustrated are also net of any other applicable contract charges.


56


VUL III

FLEXIBLE PREMIUM VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE
MALE ISSUE AGE 55
STANDARD NONSMOKER
$100,000 SPECIFIED AMOUNT
$3,348 ANNUAL PREMIUM USING CURRENT CHARGES

End
   of
Policy
  Premiums
Accumulated
at
5% Interest
  Death Benefit
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Policy Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Net Cash Surrender Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
 

Year

 

Per Year

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 
 

1

   

$

3,515

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

2,343

   

$

2,506

   

$

2,669

   

$

1,020

   

$

1,183

   

$

1,346

   
 

2

     

7,207

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

4,616

     

5,088

     

5,580

     

1,970

     

2,442

     

2,934

   
 

3

     

11,082

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

6,822

     

7,754

     

8,765

     

4,176

     

5,108

     

6,119

   
 

4

     

15,152

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

8,952

     

10,500

     

12,249

     

6,306

     

7,854

     

9,603

   
 

5

     

19,425

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

11,010

     

13,335

     

16,070

     

8,364

     

10,689

     

13,424

   
 

6

     

23,911

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

12,989

     

16,259

     

20,264

     

10,476

     

13,745

     

17,750

   
 

7

     

28,622

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

14,893

     

19,280

     

24,882

     

12,512

     

16,899

     

22,501

   
 

8

     

33,569

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

16,705

     

22,391

     

29,964

     

14,456

     

20,142

     

27,715

   
 

9

     

38,763

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

18,420

     

25,596

     

35,570

     

16,303

     

23,479

     

33,453

   
 

10

     

44,216

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

20,041

     

28,907

     

41,775

     

18,189

     

27,054

     

39,923

   
 

15

     

75,857

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

26,598

     

47,402

     

85,313

     

26,069

     

46,872

     

84,784

   
 

20

     

116,240

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

170,635

     

29,964

     

70,695

     

159,472

     

29,964

     

70,695

     

159,472

   
 

25

     

167,780

     

100,000

     

108,031

     

295,213

     

27,675

     

102,886

     

281,155

     

27,675

     

102,886

     

281,155

   
 

30

     

233,559

     

100,000

     

151,477

     

500,905

     

14,829

     

144,264

     

477,053

     

14,829

     

144,264

     

477,053

   

The hypothetical rates of return shown above and elsewhere in this prospectus are illustrative only and should not be deemed a representation of past or future investment rates of return. Actual rates of return may be more or less than those shown, the death benefit and cash value for a contract would be different from those shown if the actual gross annual return averaged 0.00%, and 6.00% and 12.00% over a period of years, but also fluctuated above or below those averages for individual contract years. The actual policy values, net cash surrender values and death benefit proceeds could be substantially less than those shown, and may, under certain circumstances, result in the lapse of the policy unless the owner pays more than the stated premium. No representations can be made by Lincoln Life or any of the funds that these hypothetical rates of return can be achieved for any one year or sustained over any period of time. Values illustrated are net of a .48% asset management charge, a .80% current mortality and expense risk charge and other expenses estimated at .04%. Values illustrated are also net of any other applicable contract charges.


57


VUL III

FLEXIBLE PREMIUM VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE
MALE ISSUE AGE 55
STANDARD SMOKER
$100,000 SPECIFIED AMOUNT
$4,358 ANNUAL PREMIUM USING CURRENT CHARGES

End
   of
Policy
  Premiums
Accumulated
at
5% Interest
  Death Benefit
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Policy Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Net Cash Surrender Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
 

Year

 

Per Year

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 
 

1

   

$

4,576

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

2,897

   

$

3,104

   

$

3,311

   

$

822

   

$

1,029

   

$

1,236

   
 

2

     

9,381

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

5,699

     

6,296

     

6,919

     

1,549

     

2,146

     

2,769

   
 

3

     

14,426

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

8,401

     

9,576

     

10,853

     

4,251

     

5,426

     

6,703

   
 

4

     

19,723

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

11,018

     

12,968

     

15,174

     

6,868

     

8,818

     

11,024

   
 

5

     

25,285

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

13,547

     

16,476

     

19,927

     

9,397

     

12,326

     

15,777

   
 

6

     

31,125

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

15,982

     

20,103

     

25,165

     

12,039

     

16,160

     

21,222

   
 

7

     

37,257

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

18,319

     

23,858

     

30,953

     

14,584

     

20,123

     

27,218

   
 

8

     

43,696

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

20,554

     

27,750

     

37,369

     

17,026

     

24,222

     

33,842

   
 

9

     

50,456

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

22,675

     

31,783

     

44,497

     

19,355

     

28,463

     

41,177

   
 

10

     

57,555

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

24,679

     

35,972

     

52,448

     

21,774

     

33,067

     

49,543

   
 

15

     

98,741

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

126,854

     

33,050

     

60,240

     

109,357

     

32,220

     

59,410

     

108,527

   
 

20

     

151,306

     

100,000

     

100,343

     

218,118

     

38,413

     

93,779

     

203,848

     

38,413

     

93,779

     

203,848

   
 

25

     

218,394

     

100,000

     

145,768

     

377,010

     

39,120

     

138,827

     

359,058

     

39,120

     

138,827

     

359,058

   
 

30

     

304,018

     

100,000

     

203,249

     

639,098

     

32,659

     

193,571

     

608,664

     

32,659

     

193,571

     

608,664

   

The hypothetical rates of return shown above and elsewhere in this prospectus are illustrative only and should not be deemed a representation of past or future investment rates of return. Actual rates of return may be more or less than those shown. The death benefits and cash value for a contract would be different from those shown if the actual gross annual return averaged 0.00%, 6.00% and 12.00% over a period of years, but also fluctuated above or below those averages for individual contract years. The actual policy values, net cash surrender values and death benefit proceeds could be substantially less than those shown, and may, under certain circumstances, result in the lapse of the policy unless the owner pays more than the stated premium. No representations can be made by Lincoln Life or any of the funds that these hypothetical rates of return can be achieved for any one year or sustained over any period of time. Values illustrated are net of a .48% asset management charge, a .80% current mortality and expense risk charge and other expenses estimated at .04%. Values illustrated are also net of any other applicable contract charges.


58


VUL III

FLEXIBLE PREMIUM VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE
MALE ISSUE AGE 55
STANDARD SMOKER
$100,000 SPECIFIED AMOUNT
$4,358 ANNUAL PREMIUM USING GUARANTEED CHARGES

End
   of
Policy
  Premiums
Accumulated
at
5% Interest
  Death Benefit
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Policy Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
  Net Cash Surrender Value
Assuming Hypothetical
Gross Annual Investment
Return of
 

Year

 

Per Year

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 

0% Gross

 

6% Gross

 

12% Gross

 
 

1

   

$

4,576

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

100,000

   

$

2,451

   

$

2,645

   

$

2,838

   

$

376

   

$

570

   

$

763

   
 

2

     

9,381

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

4,769

     

5,311

     

5,877

     

619

     

1,161

     

1,727

   
 

3

     

14,426

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

6,952

     

8,000

     

9,142

     

2,802

     

3,850

     

4,992

   
 

4

     

19,723

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

8,997

     

10,716

     

12,665

     

4,847

     

6,566

     

8,515

   
 

5

     

25,285

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

10,902

     

13,456

     

16,480

     

6,752

     

9,306

     

12,330

   
 

6

     

31,125

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

12,654

     

16,219

     

20,623

     

8,712

     

12,276

     

16,680

   
 

7

     

37,257

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

14,237

     

18,993

     

25,133

     

10,502

     

15,258

     

21,398

   
 

8

     

43,696

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

15,634

     

21,771

     

30,060

     

12,106

     

18,243

     

26,533

   
 

9

     

50,456

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

16,823

     

24,544

     

35,467

     

13,503

     

21,224

     

32,147

   
 

10

     

57,555

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

17,787

     

27,308

     

41,435

     

14,882

     

24,403

     

38,530

   
 

15

     

98,741

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

18,726

     

41,245

     

84,626

     

17,896

     

40,415

     

83,796

   
 

20

     

151,306

     

100,000

     

100,000

     

172,212

     

9,575

     

55,959

     

160,946

     

9,575

     

55,959

     

160,946

   
 

25

     

218,394

     

0

     

100,000

     

299,130

     

0

     

73,870

     

284,886

     

0

     

73,870

     

284,886

   
 

30

     

304,018

     

0

     

111,158

     

502,511

     

0

     

105,865

     

478,582

     

0

     

105,865

     

478,582

   

The hypothetical rates of return shown above and elsewhere in this prospectus are illustrative only and should not be deemed a representation of past or future investment rates of return. Actual rates of return may be more or less than those shown. The death benefit and cash value for a contract would be different from those shown if the actual gross annual return averaged 0.00%, 6.00% and 12.00% over a period of years, but also fluctuated above or below those averages for individual contract years. The actual policy values, net cash surrender values and death benefit proceeds could be substantially less than those shown, and may, under certain circumstances, result in the lapse of the policy unless the owner pays more than the stated premium. No representations can be made by Lincoln Life or any of the funds that these hypothetical rates of return can be achieved for any one year or sustained over any period of time. Values illustrated are net of a .48% asset management charge, a .90% guaranteed maximum mortality and expense risk charge and other expenses estimated at .04%. Values illustrated are also net of any other applicable contract charges.


59


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G


G-1


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G

Statements of assets and liabilities

December 31, 2023

Subaccount

 

Investments

 

Total Assets

 

Net Assets

 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

$

9,498,707

   

$

9,498,707

   

$

9,498,707

   

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

7,684,858

     

7,684,858

     

7,684,858

   

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

4,724,180

     

4,724,180

     

4,724,180

   

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

128,220,799

     

128,220,799

     

128,220,799

   

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

52,708,120

     

52,708,120

     

52,708,120

   

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

4,645,292

     

4,645,292

     

4,645,292

   

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

16,722,177

     

16,722,177

     

16,722,177

   

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

2,192,889

     

2,192,889

     

2,192,889

   

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

2,142,313

     

2,142,313

     

2,142,313

   

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

1,264,593

     

1,264,593

     

1,264,593

   

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

17,498,426

     

17,498,426

     

17,498,426

   

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

16,992,674

     

16,992,674

     

16,992,674

   

See accompanying notes.
G-2


[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G

Statements of operations

Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023

Subaccount

  Dividends
from
Investment
Income
  Mortality and
Expense
Guarantee Charges
  Net
Investment
Income (Loss)
  Net Realized
Gain (Loss)
on Investments
 

Year Ended December 31, 2021

 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

$

189,651

   

$

(89,295

)

 

$

100,356

   

$

587,920

   

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

52,444

     

(71,667

)

   

(19,223

)

   

229,925

   

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

     

(56,097

)

   

(56,097

)

   

263,524

   

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

668,320

     

(1,157,872

)

   

(489,552

)

   

6,468,263

   

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

709,871

     

(421,992

)

   

287,879

     

1,644,545

   

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

233,548

     

(41,918

)

   

191,630

     

(19,673

)

 

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

572,801

     

(178,925

)

   

393,876

     

714,106

   

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

40,209

     

(19,539

)

   

20,670

     

19,811

   

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

44,159

     

(24,466

)

   

19,693

     

(9,589

)

 

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

     

(11,343

)

   

(11,343

)

   

(3,596

)

 

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

256,645

     

(150,430

)

   

106,215

     

268,303

   

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

206,673

     

(143,759

)

   

62,914

     

737,926

   

Year Ended December 31, 2022

 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

$

199,495

   

$

(75,287

)

 

$

124,208

   

$

147,194

   

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

63,743

     

(56,257

)

   

7,486

     

128,119

   

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

     

(39,337

)

   

(39,337

)

   

2,837

   

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

671,452

     

(924,473

)

   

(253,021

)

   

1,686,030

   

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

709,436

     

(371,999

)

   

337,437

     

712,441

   

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

359,321

     

(37,380

)

   

321,941

     

(71,104

)

 

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

323,514

     

(130,656

)

   

192,858

     

14,375

   

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

71,922

     

(18,868

)

   

53,054

     

(87,472

)

 

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

97,063

     

(19,805

)

   

77,258

     

(27,189

)

 

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

10,620

     

(11,254

)

   

(634

)

   

266

   

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

266,387

     

(143,620

)

   

122,767

     

272,118

   

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

217,246

     

(128,905

)

   

88,341

     

253,403

   

Year Ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

$

220,733

   

$

(72,135

)

 

$

148,598

   

$

78,365

   

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

81,255

     

(56,532

)

   

24,723

     

73,217

   

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

21,702

     

(36,209

)

   

(14,507

)

   

(82,970

)

 

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

690,255

     

(915,185

)

   

(224,930

)

   

1,666,951

   

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

768,239

     

(380,719

)

   

387,520

     

556,627

   

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

318,597

     

(35,523

)

   

283,074

     

(63,323

)

 

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

249,948

     

(129,266

)

   

120,682

     

(57,301

)

 

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

78,629

     

(17,227

)

   

61,402

     

(31,358

)

 

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

83,217

     

(17,511

)

   

65,706

     

(58,331

)

 

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

61,639

     

(11,299

)

   

50,340

     

9,427

   

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

272,975

     

(133,553

)

   

139,422

     

154,342

   

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

215,254

     

(126,872

)

   

88,382

     

211,484

   

See accompanying notes.
G-4


Subaccount

  Dividends
from
Net Realized
Gain on
Investments
  Total
Net Realized
Gain (Loss)
on Investments
  Net Change
in Unrealized
Appreciation or
Depreciation
on Investments
  Net Increase
(Decrease)
in Net Assets
Resulting
from Operations
 

Year Ended December 31, 2021

 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

$

365,474

   

$

953,394

   

$

458,002

   

$

1,511,752

   

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

428,302

     

658,227

     

649,330

     

1,288,334

   

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

151,985

     

415,509

     

52,877

     

412,289

   

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

18,116,897

     

24,585,160

     

3,698,770

     

27,794,378

   

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

508,458

     

2,153,003

     

8,564,707

     

11,005,589

   

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

     

(19,673

)

   

222,266

     

394,223

   

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

     

714,106

     

(1,488,564

)

   

(380,582

)

 

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

94,921

     

114,732

     

(160,550

)

   

(25,148

)

 

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

261,978

     

252,389

     

(314,371

)

   

(42,289

)

 

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

     

(3,596

)

   

(1,289

)

   

(16,228

)

 

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

     

268,303

     

4,560,849

     

4,935,367

   

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

703,564

     

1,441,490

     

2,650,328

     

4,154,732

   

Year Ended December 31, 2022

 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

$

962,313

   

$

1,109,507

   

$

(2,732,460

)

 

$

(1,498,745

)

 

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

780,788

     

908,907

     

(3,238,101

)

   

(2,321,708

)

 

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

1,614,342

     

1,617,179

     

(3,553,702

)

   

(1,975,860

)

 

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

16,487,664

     

18,173,694

     

(62,980,202

)

   

(45,059,529

)

 

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

4,524,067

     

5,236,508

     

(14,890,795

)

   

(9,316,850

)

 

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

     

(71,104

)

   

(756,495

)

   

(505,658

)

 

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

2,250,772

     

2,265,147

     

(6,701,884

)

   

(4,243,879

)

 

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

25,209

     

(62,263

)

   

(347,703

)

   

(356,912

)

 

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

     

(27,189

)

   

(356,651

)

   

(306,582

)

 

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

     

266

     

11,042

     

10,674

   

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

578,793

     

850,911

     

(2,887,292

)

   

(1,913,614

)

 

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

771,060

     

1,024,463

     

(4,073,208

)

   

(2,960,404

)

 

Year Ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

$

344,577

   

$

422,942

   

$

590,142

   

$

1,161,682

   

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

529,456

     

602,673

     

763,235

     

1,390,631

   

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

55,755

     

(27,215

)

   

700,752

     

659,030

   

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

6,395,549

     

8,062,500

     

28,590,389

     

36,427,959

   

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

2,472,890

     

3,029,517

     

7,482,097

     

10,899,134

   

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

     

(63,323

)

   

279,140

     

498,891

   

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

     

(57,301

)

   

2,208,713

     

2,272,094

   

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

     

(31,358

)

   

63,281

     

93,325

   

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

     

(58,331

)

   

42,940

     

50,315

   

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

     

9,427

     

(3,387

)

   

56,380

   

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

1,360,556

     

1,514,898

     

(4,139

)

   

1,650,181

   

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

751,395

     

962,879

     

2,082,396

     

3,133,657

   


G-5


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G

Statements of changes in net assets

Years Ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023

    American
Funds
Asset
Allocation
Fund -
Class 1
Subaccount
  American
Funds
Global
Growth
Fund -
Class 1
Subaccount
  American
Funds
Global
Small
Capitalization
Fund -
Class 1
Subaccount
  American
Funds
Growth
Fund -
Class 1
Subaccount
  American
Funds
Growth-
Income
Fund -
Class 1
Subaccount
  American
Funds
High-
Income
Trust -
Class 1
Subaccount
 

NET ASSETS AT JANUARY 1, 2021

 

$

10,872,704

   

$

8,240,393

   

$

6,703,544

   

$

134,891,709

   

$

48,485,110

   

$

5,022,579

   

Changes From Operations:

 

• Net investment income (loss)

   

100,356

     

(19,223

)

   

(56,097

)

   

(489,552

)

   

287,879

     

191,630

   

• Net realized gain (loss) on investments

   

953,394

     

658,227

     

415,509

     

24,585,160

     

2,153,003

     

(19,673

)

 

• Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments

   

458,002

     

649,330

     

52,877

     

3,698,770

     

8,564,707

     

222,266

   
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM OPERATIONS
   

1,511,752

     

1,288,334

     

412,289

     

27,794,378

     

11,005,589

     

394,223

   

Changes From Unit Transactions:

 

• Net unit transactions

   

(1,486,632

)

   

(218,373

)

   

(455,809

)

   

(11,614,997

)

   

(4,125,096

)

   

(94,003

)

 
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM
UNIT TRANSACTIONS
   

(1,486,632

)

   

(218,373

)

   

(455,809

)

   

(11,614,997

)

   

(4,125,096

)

   

(94,003

)

 

TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS

   

25,120

     

1,069,961

     

(43,520

)

   

16,179,381

     

6,880,493

     

300,220

   

NET ASSETS AT DECEMBER 31, 2021

   

10,897,824

     

9,310,354

     

6,660,024

     

151,071,090

     

55,365,603

     

5,322,799

   

Changes From Operations:

 

• Net investment income (loss)

   

124,208

     

7,486

     

(39,337

)

   

(253,021

)

   

337,437

     

321,941

   

• Net realized gain (loss) on investments

   

1,109,507

     

908,907

     

1,617,179

     

18,173,694

     

5,236,508

     

(71,104

)

 

• Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments

   

(2,732,460

)

   

(3,238,101

)

   

(3,553,702

)

   

(62,980,202

)

   

(14,890,795

)

   

(756,495

)

 
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM OPERATIONS
   

(1,498,745

)

   

(2,321,708

)

   

(1,975,860

)

   

(45,059,529

)

   

(9,316,850

)

   

(505,658

)

 

Changes From Unit Transactions:

 

• Net unit transactions

   

(568,418

)

   

(528,792

)

   

(259,855

)

   

(6,073,689

)

   

(2,085,453

)

   

(440,852

)

 
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM UNIT TRANSACTIONS
   

(568,418

)

   

(528,792

)

   

(259,855

)

   

(6,073,689

)

   

(2,085,453

)

   

(440,852

)

 

TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS

   

(2,067,163

)

   

(2,850,500

)

   

(2,235,715

)

   

(51,133,218

)

   

(11,402,303

)

   

(946,510

)

 

NET ASSETS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022

   

8,830,661

     

6,459,854

     

4,424,309

     

99,937,872

     

43,963,300

     

4,376,289

   

Changes From Operations:

 

• Net investment income (loss)

   

148,598

     

24,723

     

(14,507

)

   

(224,930

)

   

387,520

     

283,074

   

• Net realized gain (loss) on investments

   

422,942

     

602,673

     

(27,215

)

   

8,062,500

     

3,029,517

     

(63,323

)

 

• Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments

   

590,142

     

763,235

     

700,752

     

28,590,389

     

7,482,097

     

279,140

   

NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

   

1,161,682

     

1,390,631

     

659,030

     

36,427,959

     

10,899,134

     

498,891

   

Changes From Unit Transactions:

 

• Net unit transactions

   

(493,636

)

   

(165,627

)

   

(359,159

)

   

(8,145,032

)

   

(2,154,314

)

   

(229,888

)

 
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM
UNIT TRANSACTIONS
   

(493,636

)

   

(165,627

)

   

(359,159

)

   

(8,145,032

)

   

(2,154,314

)

   

(229,888

)

 

TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS

   

668,046

     

1,225,004

     

299,871

     

28,282,927

     

8,744,820

     

269,003

   

NET ASSETS AT DECEMBER 31, 2023

 

$

9,498,707

   

$

7,684,858

   

$

4,724,180

   

$

128,220,799

   

$

52,708,120

   

$

4,645,292

   

See accompanying notes.
G-6


    American
Funds
International
Fund -
Class 1
Subaccount
  American
Funds
The
Bond
Fund of
America -
Class 1
Subaccount
  American
Funds U.S.
Government
Securities
Fund -
Class 1
Subaccount
  American
Funds
Ultra-
Short
Bond
Fund -
Class 1
Subaccount
  LVIP
Delaware
Mid Cap
Value
Fund -
Standard Class
Subaccount
  LVIP
Dimensional
U.S. Core
Equity 1
Fund -
Standard
Class
Subaccount
 

NET ASSETS AT JANUARY 1, 2021

 

$

22,942,320

   

$

2,577,907

   

$

3,282,853

   

$

2,275,633

   

$

16,456,070

   

$

16,255,295

   

Changes From Operations:

 

• Net investment income (loss)

   

393,876

     

20,670

     

19,693

     

(11,343

)

   

106,215

     

62,914

   

• Net realized gain (loss) on investments

   

714,106

     

114,732

     

252,389

     

(3,596

)

   

268,303

     

1,441,490

   

• Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments

   

(1,488,564

)

   

(160,550

)

   

(314,371

)

   

(1,289

)

   

4,560,849

     

2,650,328

   
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM OPERATIONS
   

(380,582

)

   

(25,148

)

   

(42,289

)

   

(16,228

)

   

4,935,367

     

4,154,732

   

Changes From Unit Transactions:

 

• Net unit transactions

   

(2,307,351

)

   

(109,381

)

   

(475,448

)

   

(1,241,590

)

   

(1,088,175

)

   

(1,458,414

)

 
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM
UNIT TRANSACTIONS
   

(2,307,351

)

   

(109,381

)

   

(475,448

)

   

(1,241,590

)

   

(1,088,175

)

   

(1,458,414

)

 

TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS

   

(2,687,933

)

   

(134,529

)

   

(517,737

)

   

(1,257,818

)

   

3,847,192

     

2,696,318

   

NET ASSETS AT DECEMBER 31, 2021

   

20,254,387

     

2,443,378

     

2,765,116

     

1,017,815

     

20,303,262

     

18,951,613

   

Changes From Operations:

 

• Net investment income (loss)

   

192,858

     

53,054

     

77,258

     

(634

)

   

122,767

     

88,341

   

• Net realized gain (loss) on investments

   

2,265,147

     

(62,263

)

   

(27,189

)

   

266

     

850,911

     

1,024,463

   

• Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments

   

(6,701,884

)

   

(347,703

)

   

(356,651

)

   

11,042

     

(2,887,292

)

   

(4,073,208

)

 
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM OPERATIONS
   

(4,243,879

)

   

(356,912

)

   

(306,582

)

   

10,674

     

(1,913,614

)

   

(2,960,404

)

 

Changes From Unit Transactions:

 

• Net unit transactions

   

(738,841

)

   

97,593

     

(162,649

)

   

495,038

     

(1,259,368

)

   

(1,011,529

)

 
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM UNIT TRANSACTIONS
   

(738,841

)

   

97,593

     

(162,649

)

   

495,038

     

(1,259,368

)

   

(1,011,529

)

 

TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS

   

(4,982,720

)

   

(259,319

)

   

(469,231

)

   

505,712

     

(3,172,982

)

   

(3,971,933

)

 

NET ASSETS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022

   

15,271,667

     

2,184,059

     

2,295,885

     

1,523,527

     

17,130,280

     

14,979,680

   

Changes From Operations:

 

• Net investment income (loss)

   

120,682

     

61,402

     

65,706

     

50,340

     

139,422

     

88,382

   

• Net realized gain (loss) on investments

   

(57,301

)

   

(31,358

)

   

(58,331

)

   

9,427

     

1,514,898

     

962,879

   

• Net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments

   

2,208,713

     

63,281

     

42,940

     

(3,387

)

   

(4,139

)

   

2,082,396

   

NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

   

2,272,094

     

93,325

     

50,315

     

56,380

     

1,650,181

     

3,133,657

   

Changes From Unit Transactions:

 

• Net unit transactions

   

(821,584

)

   

(84,495

)

   

(203,887

)

   

(315,314

)

   

(1,282,035

)

   

(1,120,663

)

 
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM
UNIT TRANSACTIONS
   

(821,584

)

   

(84,495

)

   

(203,887

)

   

(315,314

)

   

(1,282,035

)

   

(1,120,663

)

 

TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS

   

1,450,510

     

8,830

     

(153,572

)

   

(258,934

)

   

368,146

     

2,012,994

   

NET ASSETS AT DECEMBER 31, 2023

 

$

16,722,177

   

$

2,192,889

   

$

2,142,313

   

$

1,264,593

   

$

17,498,426

   

$

16,992,674

   


G-7


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable
Life Account G

Notes to financial statements

December 31, 2023

1. Accounting Policies and Variable Account Information

The Variable Account: Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G (the Variable Account) is a segregated investment account of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company (the Company) and is registered as a unit investment trust with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The operations of the Variable Account, which commenced on January 23, 1989, are part of the operations of the Company. The Variable Account only offers one product (VUL III) at one fee rate.

The assets of the Variable Account are owned by the Company. The Variable Account's assets support the variable life policies and may not be used to satisfy liabilities arising from any other business of the Company.

Basis of Presentation: The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for unit investment trusts.

Accounting Estimates: The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions affecting the reported amounts as of the date of the financial statements. Those estimates are inherently subject to change and actual results could differ from those estimates. Included among the material (or potentially material) reported amounts that require use of estimates is the fair value of certain assets.

Investments: The assets of the Variable Account are divided into variable subaccounts each of which may be invested in shares of one of twelve mutual funds (the Funds) of two open-ended management investment companies, each Fund with its own investment objective. The Funds are:

American Funds Insurance Series®​:

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust*:

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

*  Denotes an affiliate of the Company

Each subaccount invests in shares of a single underlying Fund. The investment performance of each subaccount will reflect the investment performance of the underlying Fund less separate account expenses. There is no assurance that the investment objective of any underlying Fund will be met. A Fund calculates a daily net asset value per share ("NAV") which is based on the market value of its investment portfolio. The amount of risk varies significantly between subaccounts. Due to the level of risk associated with certain investment portfolios, it is at least reasonably possible that changes in the values of investment portfolios will occur in the near term and that such changes could materially affect contract holders' investments in the Funds and the amounts reported in the financial statements. The contract holder assumes all of the investment performance risk for the subaccounts selected.

Investments in the Funds are stated at fair value as determined by the closing net asset value per share on December 31, 2023. Net asset value is quoted by the Funds as derived by the fair value of the Funds' underlying investments. The difference between cost and net asset value is reflected as unrealized appreciation or depreciation of investments. There are no redemption restrictions on investments in the Funds.

Investments for which the fair value is measured at NAV using the practical expedient (investments in investees measured at NAV) are excluded from the fair value hierarchy. Accordingly, the Variable Account's investments in the Funds have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy.

Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade-date basis. The cost of investments sold is determined by the average cost method.

ASC 946-10-15, "Financial Services - Investment Companies (Topic 946) - Scope and Scope Exceptions" provides accounting guidance for assessing whether an entity is an investment company. This guidance evaluates the entity's purpose and design to determine whether the entity is an investment company. The standard also adds additional disclosure requirements regarding contractually required commitments to investees. Management has evaluated the criteria in the standard and concluded that the Variable Account qualifies as an investment company and therefore applies the accounting requirements of ASC 946.

Dividends: Dividends paid to the Variable Account are automatically reinvested in shares of the Funds on the payable date. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date.


G-8


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable
Life Account G

Notes to financial statements (continued)

1. Accounting Policies and Variable Account Information (continued)

Federal Income Taxes: Operations of the Variable Account form a part of and are taxed with operations of

the Company, which is taxed as a "life insurance company" under the Internal Revenue Code. The Variable Account will not be taxed as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended. Under current federal income tax law, no federal income taxes are payable or receivable with respect to the Variable Account's net investment income and the net realized gain (loss) on investments.

Investment Fund Changes: During 2021, the following funds changed their names:

Previous Fund Name

 

New Fund Name

 

American Funds High-Income Bond Fund - Class 1

 

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

 

American Funds Bond Fund - Class 1

 

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

 

American Funds U.S. Government/AAA-Rated Securities Fund - Class 1

 

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

 

2. Mortality and Expense Risk Charge and Other Transactions with Affiliates

Amounts are charged daily to the Variable Account by the Company for a mortality and expense risk charge at an annual rate of .80% of the average daily net asset value of the Variable Account. These charges are made in return for the Company's assumption of risks associated with adverse mortality experience or excess administrative expenses in connection with policies issued. The mortality and expense risk charges for each of the variable subaccounts are reported in the statements of operations.

Premiums paid are reduced by a percent of premium charge equal to 5.95% of each premium payment to cover the Company's state taxes and federal income tax liabilities. Amounts retained during 2023, 2022 and 2021, by the Company for such charges were $231,197, $233,643 and $259,025, respectively.

The monthly administrative charge amounts to $6 for each policy in force and is intended to compensate the Company for continuing administration of the policies, premium billings, overhead expenses, and other miscellaneous expenses. The administrative charges retained by the Company for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 amounted to $598,381, $607,705 and $634,776, respectively.

The Company assumes the responsibility for providing the insurance benefits included in the policy. The cost of insurance is determined each month based upon the applicable insurance rate and the current death benefit. The cost of insurance can vary from month to month since the determination of both the insurance rate and the current death benefit depends upon a number of variables as described in the Variable Account's prospectus. Cost of insurance for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 amounted to $7,217,768, $7,155,156 and $6,947,511, respectively.

A transfer charge of $10 may be assessed each time a policy owner transfers funds from one subaccount to another; however, the transfer charge is currently being waived for all transfers. A withdrawal charge of $10 is incurred for each withdrawal from the policy value by the policy owner.

Surrender charges are deducted if the policy is surrendered during the first sixteen policy years. Surrender charges are assessed separately on the initial specified policy amount and subsequent increases to the specified policy amount. The amount of the surrender charge assessed on increases to the specified policy amount would be equal to the surrender charge that would apply to a new policy. Refer to the product prospectus for the surrender charge. Surrender charges for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 amounted to $920, $1,357 and $1,001, respectively.

Premium load, cost of insurance, administrative, surrender and transfer fees are included within Net unit transactions on the Statements of Changes in Net Assets.


G-9


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G

Notes to financial statements (continued)

3. Financial Highlights

A summary of the fee rates, unit values, units outstanding, net assets and total return and investment income ratios for variable life contracts as of and for each year or period in the five years ended December 31, 2023, follows:

Subaccount

 

Year

 

Fee Rate(1)

 

Unit Value

  Units
Outstanding
 

Net Assets

  Total
Return(2)
  Investment
Income
Ratio(3)
 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

 

$

11.03

     

861,264

   

$

9,498,707

     

13.64

%

   

2.45

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

9.71

     

909,868

     

8,830,661

     

-13.88

%

   

2.12

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

11.27

     

966,950

     

10,897,824

     

14.48

%

   

1.70

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

9.84

     

1,104,402

     

10,872,704

     

11.81

%

   

1.88

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

8.80

     

1,235,343

     

10,876,793

     

20.58

%

   

2.16

%

 

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

   

10.37

     

741,048

     

7,684,858

     

21.93

%

   

1.15

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

8.51

     

759,500

     

6,459,854

     

-25.14

%

   

0.91

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

11.36

     

819,422

     

9,310,354

     

15.79

%

   

0.59

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

9.81

     

839,792

     

8,240,393

     

29.74

%

   

0.60

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

7.56

     

902,793

     

6,827,885

     

34.53

%

   

1.36

%

 

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

   

6.91

     

683,356

     

4,724,180

     

15.53

%

   

0.48

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

5.98

     

739,355

     

4,424,309

     

-29.94

%

   

0.00

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

8.54

     

779,790

     

6,660,024

     

6.13

%

   

0.00

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

8.05

     

832,966

     

6,703,544

     

29.01

%

   

0.20

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

6.24

     

938,303

     

5,853,223

     

30.79

%

   

0.40

%

 

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

   

53.08

     

2,415,389

     

128,220,799

     

37.71

%

   

0.60

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

38.55

     

2,592,448

     

99,937,872

     

-30.32

%

   

0.58

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

55.32

     

2,730,746

     

151,071,090

     

21.32

%

   

0.46

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

45.60

     

2,958,186

     

134,891,709

     

51.25

%

   

0.56

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

30.15

     

3,231,845

     

97,437,384

     

30.06

%

   

0.99

%

 

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

   

26.09

     

2,020,430

     

52,708,120

     

25.46

%

   

1.61

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

20.79

     

2,114,243

     

43,963,300

     

-16.96

%

   

1.53

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

25.04

     

2,211,136

     

55,365,603

     

23.43

%

   

1.34

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

20.29

     

2,389,988

     

48,485,110

     

12.91

%

   

1.58

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

17.97

     

2,593,936

     

46,607,152

     

25.45

%

   

1.88

%

 

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

   

9.05

     

513,418

     

4,645,292

     

11.79

%

   

7.17

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

8.09

     

540,713

     

4,376,289

     

-9.74

%

   

7.69

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

8.97

     

593,606

     

5,322,799

     

7.87

%

   

4.46

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

8.31

     

604,210

     

5,022,579

     

7.35

%

   

8.64

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

7.74

     

646,001

     

5,002,487

     

11.95

%

   

6.32

%

 

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

   

8.29

     

2,017,920

     

16,722,177

     

15.19

%

   

1.55

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

7.19

     

2,122,885

     

15,271,667

     

-21.20

%

   

1.98

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

9.13

     

2,218,524

     

20,254,387

     

-2.02

%

   

2.56

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

9.32

     

2,462,122

     

22,942,320

     

13.36

%

   

0.91

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

8.22

     

2,630,860

     

21,624,604

     

22.23

%

   

1.66

%

 

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

   

2.52

     

871,193

     

2,192,889

     

4.37

%

   

3.65

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

2.41

     

905,577

     

2,184,059

     

-12.96

%

   

3.05

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

2.77

     

881,804

     

2,443,378

     

-0.94

%

   

1.65

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

2.80

     

921,639

     

2,577,907

     

9.08

%

   

2.34

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

2.56

     

917,327

     

2,352,318

     

8.83

%

   

2.85

%

 

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

   

4.00

     

535,168

     

2,142,313

     

2.39

%

   

3.80

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

3.91

     

587,216

     

2,295,885

     

-11.46

%

   

3.92

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

4.42

     

626,195

     

2,765,116

     

-1.24

%

   

1.44

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

4.47

     

734,252

     

3,282,853

     

9.21

%

   

2.00

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

4.09

     

737,123

     

3,017,772

     

4.85

%

   

2.12

%

 


G-10


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G

Notes to financial statements (continued)

3. Financial Highlights (continued)

Subaccount

 

Year

 

Fee Rate(1)

 

Unit Value

  Units
Outstanding
 

Net Assets

  Total
Return(2)
  Investment
Income
Ratio(3)
 

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

 

$

1.92

     

659,523

   

$

1,264,593

     

4.10

%

   

4.37

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

1.84

     

827,135

     

1,523,527

     

0.61

%

   

0.75

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

1.83

     

555,941

     

1,017,815

     

-1.15

%

   

0.00

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

1.85

     

1,228,709

     

2,275,633

     

-0.46

%

   

0.18

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

1.86

     

421,590

     

784,443

     

1.11

%

   

1.86

%

 

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

   

28.69

     

609,854

     

17,498,426

     

10.36

%

   

1.64

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

26.00

     

658,849

     

17,130,280

     

-9.60

%

   

1.48

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

28.76

     

705,933

     

20,303,262

     

30.86

%

   

1.36

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

21.98

     

748,764

     

16,456,070

     

-0.29

%

   

2.74

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

22.04

     

822,480

     

18,128,829

     

29.39

%

   

1.15

%

 

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

 
     

2023

     

0.80

%

   

19.58

     

868,045

     

16,992,674

     

21.81

%

   

1.36

%

 
     

2022

     

0.80

%

   

16.07

     

932,071

     

14,979,680

     

-15.92

%

   

1.35

%

 
     

2021

     

0.80

%

   

19.11

     

991,460

     

18,951,613

     

26.53

%

   

1.15

%

 
     

2020

     

0.80

%

   

15.11

     

1,076,033

     

16,255,295

     

15.47

%

   

1.56

%

 
     

2019

     

0.80

%

   

13.08

     

1,156,413

     

15,128,748

     

29.07

%

   

1.83

%

 

(1)  These amounts represent the annualized minimum and maximum contract expenses of the separate account, consisting primarily of mortality and expense charges, for only those subaccounts which contain investments as of the respective year end. The ratios include only those expenses that result in a direct reduction to unit values. Charges made directly to contract owner accounts through the redemption of units and expenses of the underlying funds have been excluded.

(2)  These amounts represent the total return, including changes in value of mutual funds, and reflect deductions for all items included in the fee rate. The total return does not include contract charges deducted directly from policy account values. The total return is not annualized.

(3)  These amounts represent the dividends, excluding distributions of capital gains, received by the subaccount from the underlying mutual fund, net of management fees assessed by the fund manager, divided by the average net assets. These ratios exclude those expenses, such as mortality and expense guarantee charges, that result in direct reductions in the unit values. The recognition of investment income by the subaccount is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying fund in which the subaccounts invest. Investment income ratios are not annualized.

4. Purchases and Sales of Investments

The aggregate cost of investments purchased and the aggregate proceeds from investments sold were as follows for 2023:

Subaccount

  Aggregate
Cost of
Purchases
  Aggregate
Proceeds
from Sales
 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

$

632,044

   

$

632,699

   

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

829,428

     

441,018

   

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

176,894

     

494,902

   

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

7,199,774

     

9,176,382

   

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

3,356,466

     

2,651,336

   

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

368,040

     

314,950

   

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

373,459

     

1,074,699

   

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

183,148

     

206,289

   

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

122,811

     

261,042

   

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

209,449

     

474,456

   

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

1,635,306

     

1,417,740

   

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

1,050,671

     

1,331,886

   


G-11


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G

Notes to financial statements (continued)

4. Purchases and Sales of Investments (continued)

The aggregate cost of investments purchased and the aggregate proceeds from investments sold were as follows for 2022:

Subaccount

  Aggregate
Cost of
Purchases
  Aggregate
Proceeds
from Sales
 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

$

1,262,019

   

$

743,722

   

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

864,541

     

604,917

   

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

1,709,442

     

394,195

   

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

17,263,473

     

7,100,324

   

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

5,631,125

     

2,854,108

   

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

380,081

     

498,896

   

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

2,687,196

     

982,069

   

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

919,506

     

743,602

   

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

139,192

     

224,533

   

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

917,625

     

423,188

   

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

944,435

     

1,501,866

   

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

1,113,292

     

1,265,091

   

The aggregate cost of investments purchased and the aggregate proceeds from investments sold were as follows for 2021:

Subaccount

  Aggregate
Cost of
Purchases
  Aggregate
Proceeds
from Sales
 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

$

739,275

   

$

1,760,077

   

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

726,051

     

535,345

   

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

327,940

     

687,861

   

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

19,573,526

     

13,561,178

   

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

1,353,748

     

4,682,507

   

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

450,856

     

353,229

   

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

696,306

     

2,609,781

   

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

521,666

     

515,456

   

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

453,937

     

647,714

   

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

253,409

     

1,506,342

   

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

644,206

     

1,626,166

   

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

2,002,634

     

2,694,570

   

5. Investments

The following is a summary of investments owned at December 31, 2023:

Subaccount

  Shares
Owned
  Net
Asset
Value
  Fair Value
of Shares
 

Cost of Shares

 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

   

398,102

   

$

23.86

   

$

9,498,707

   

$

8,001,662

   

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

226,558

     

33.92

     

7,684,858

     

6,146,952

   

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

254,399

     

18.57

     

4,724,180

     

5,147,834

   

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

1,289,429

     

99.44

     

128,220,799

     

93,970,708

   

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

889,438

     

59.26

     

52,708,120

     

38,591,153

   

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

519,608

     

8.94

     

4,645,292

     

5,433,392

   

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

955,553

     

17.50

     

16,722,177

     

16,765,227

   

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

229,863

     

9.54

     

2,192,889

     

2,486,590

   

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

216,177

     

9.91

     

2,142,313

     

2,607,873

   

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

111,418

     

11.35

     

1,264,593

     

1,261,686

   

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

437,811

     

39.97

     

17,498,426

     

15,457,658

   

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

401,234

     

42.35

     

16,992,674

     

13,436,708

   


G-12


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G

Notes to financial statements (continued)

6. Changes in Units Outstanding

The change in units outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2023, is as follows:

Subaccount

  Units
Issued
  Units
Redeemed
  Net
Decrease
 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

   

10,173

     

(58,777

)

   

(48,604

)

 

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

23,428

     

(41,880

)

   

(18,452

)

 

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

16,276

     

(72,275

)

   

(55,999

)

 

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

6,166

     

(183,225

)

   

(177,059

)

 

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

9,130

     

(102,943

)

   

(93,813

)

 

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

6,949

     

(34,244

)

   

(27,295

)

 

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

19,560

     

(124,525

)

   

(104,965

)

 

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

44,635

     

(79,019

)

   

(34,384

)

 

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

12,663

     

(64,711

)

   

(52,048

)

 

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

80,527

     

(248,139

)

   

(167,612

)

 

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

1,394

     

(50,389

)

   

(48,995

)

 

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

5,789

     

(69,815

)

   

(64,026

)

 

The change in units outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2022, is as follows:

Subaccount

  Units
Issued
  Units
Redeemed
  Net Increase
(Decrease)
 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

   

10,691

     

(67,773

)

   

(57,082

)

 

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

3,091

     

(63,013

)

   

(59,922

)

 

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

15,191

     

(55,626

)

   

(40,435

)

 

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

3,738

     

(142,036

)

   

(138,298

)

 

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

20,031

     

(116,924

)

   

(96,893

)

 

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

3,430

     

(56,323

)

   

(52,893

)

 

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

18,322

     

(113,961

)

   

(95,639

)

 

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

319,424

     

(295,651

)

   

23,773

   

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

11,366

     

(50,345

)

   

(38,979

)

 

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

497,792

     

(226,598

)

   

271,194

   

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

4,203

     

(51,287

)

   

(47,084

)

 

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

8,478

     

(67,867

)

   

(59,389

)

 

The change in units outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2021, is as follows:

Subaccount

  Units
Issued
  Units
Redeemed
  Net
Decrease
 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

   

18,584

     

(156,036

)

   

(137,452

)

 

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

   

24,083

     

(44,453

)

   

(20,370

)

 

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

   

21,734

     

(74,910

)

   

(53,176

)

 

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

   

20,487

     

(247,927

)

   

(227,440

)

 

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

   

9,815

     

(188,667

)

   

(178,852

)

 

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

   

26,349

     

(36,953

)

   

(10,604

)

 

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

   

20,444

     

(264,042

)

   

(243,598

)

 

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

   

141,168

     

(181,003

)

   

(39,835

)

 

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

   

35,011

     

(143,068

)

   

(108,057

)

 

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

   

138,746

     

(811,514

)

   

(672,768

)

 

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

   

15,779

     

(58,610

)

   

(42,831

)

 

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

   

64,320

     

(148,893

)

   

(84,573

)

 

7. Subsequent Events

Management evaluated subsequent events through the date these financial statements were issued and determined there were no additional matters to be disclosed.


G-13


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and Board of Directors of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company
and

Contract Owners of Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities of each of the subaccounts listed in the Appendix that comprise Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G ("Variable Account"), as of December 31, 2023, the related statements of operations and the statements of changes in net assets for each of the periods indicated in the Appendix, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the "financial statements"). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each subaccount as of December 31, 2023, the results of its operations and changes in its net assets for each of the periods indicated in the Appendix, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Variable Account's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on each of the subaccounts' financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) ("PCAOB") and are required to be independent with respect to the Variable Account in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of December 31, 2023, by correspondence with the fund companies or their transfer agents, as applicable. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Ernst & Young LLP

We have served as the Variable Account's Auditor since 1989.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
April 17, 2024


G-14


Subaccount

  Statements of
Assets and Liabilities
 

Statements of Operations

 

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

American Funds Asset Allocation Fund - Class 1

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds Global Growth Fund - Class 1

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds Global Small Capitalization Fund - Class 1

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds Growth Fund - Class 1

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds Growth-Income Fund - Class 1

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds High-Income Trust - Class 1

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds International Fund - Class 1

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds The Bond Fund of America - Class 1

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds U.S. Government Securities Fund - Class 1

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

American Funds Ultra-Short Bond Fund - Class 1

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

LVIP Delaware Mid Cap Value Fund - Standard Class

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

LVIP Dimensional U.S. Core Equity 1 Fund - Standard Class

 

As of December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 

For each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023

 


G-15















The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company

Consolidated Financial Statements

December 31, 2023 and 2022






Consolidated Financial Statements

Table of Contents

Page


2


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholder and the Board of Directors of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company (the Company) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), stockholder’s equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2023, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Adoption of ASU No. 2018-12

As discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, on January 1, 2023, the Company adopted ASU No. 2018-12, Financial Services – Insurance (Topic 944), Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Long-Duration Contracts, with a transition date of January 1, 2021.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matters communicated below are matters arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that were communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relate to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matters below, providing separate opinions on the critical audit matters or on the accounts or disclosures to which they relate.

3


Future Contract Benefits Liability
Description of the Matter
At December 31, 2023, future contract benefits liabilities totaled $40.2 billion, a portion of which related to universal life-type contracts with secondary guarantees.
The future contract benefits liability related to these product guarantees is based on estimates of how much the Company will need to pay for future benefits and the amount of fees to be collected from policyholders for these policy features. As described in Notes 1 (see section on Future Contract Benefits), 3, and 13, to the consolidated financial statements, there is significant uncertainty inherent in estimating this liability because there is a significant amount of management judgment involved in developing certain assumptions that impact the liability balance, which include mortality rates and policyholder lapse behavior.
Auditing the valuation of future contract benefits liabilities related to these products was complex and required the involvement of our actuarial specialists due to the high degree of judgment used by management in setting the assumptions used in the estimate of the future contract benefits liability related to these products.

How We Addressed the Matter in Our Audit
We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of controls over the future contract benefits liability estimation processes, including, among others, controls related to the review and approval processes that management has in place for the assumptions used in estimating the benefit ratio related to the future contract benefits liability. This included testing controls related to management’s evaluation of the need to update assumptions based on the comparison of actual Company experience to previous assumptions.
We involved actuarial specialists to assist with our audit procedures which included, among others, an evaluation of the methodology applied by management with those methods used in prior periods. To assess the significant assumptions used by management, we compared the significant assumptions noted above to historical experience and management’s estimates of prospective changes in these assumptions. In addition, we performed an independent recalculation of benefit ratio cash flows related to the future policy benefit reserves for a sample of cohorts or contracts which we compared to the actuarial model used by management.
Market Risk Benefits
Description of the MatterThe Company’s market risk benefits (“MRBs”) assets and liabilities totaled $3.9 billion and $1.7 billion, as of December 31, 2023, respectively, a portion of which relates to MRBs associated with variable and fixed annuity contracts issued through separate accounts that may include guaranteed living benefit and guaranteed death benefit features. The Company’s ceded MRB assets and ceded MRB liabilities totaled $1.1 billion and $0.3 billion, as of December 31, 2023, respectively. As described in Notes 1 (see section on MRBs), 3, 10 and 15 to the consolidated financial statements, there is a significant amount of estimation uncertainty inherent in measuring the fair value of the MRBs because of the sensitivity of certain assumptions underlying the estimate, including equity market return, volatility, policyholder lapse and benefit utilization. Management’s assumptions are adjusted over time for emerging experience and expected changes in trends, resulting in changes to the estimated fair value of the MRBs.

Auditing the valuation of the MRBs was complex and required the involvement of our actuarial specialists due to the high degree of judgment used by management in setting the assumptions used to estimate the fair value of MRBs.
4


How We Addressed the Matter in Our AuditWe obtained an understanding, evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of controls over the MRBs estimation process, including, among others, controls related to the review and approval processes that management has in place to develop the assumptions used in measuring the fair value of the MRBs. This included testing controls related to management’s evaluation of current and future capital market performance and the need to update actuarial lapse and benefit utilization assumptions.

We involved actuarial specialists to assist with our audit procedures which included, among others, an evaluation of the methodology applied by management with those methods used in prior periods. To assess the significant assumptions used by management, we compared the significant assumptions noted above to historical experience, observable market data or management’s estimates of prospective changes in these assumptions. In addition, we performed an independent recalculation of the MRBs for a sample of contracts which we compared to the fair value model used by management.
Accounting for Reinsurance of Universal Life Insurance Products with Secondary Guarantees, MoneyGuard® and Fixed Annuities Blocks of Business
Description of the MatterAs discussed in Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements, in May 2023, the Company entered into a reinsurance agreement with Fortitude Reinsurance Company Ltd. (“Fortitude Re”) to cede in-force universal life insurance products with secondary guarantees (“ULSG”) and fixed annuities blocks of business to Fortitude Re with an effective date of October 1, 2023. A portion of the reinsurance agreement is accounted for using deposit accounting representing $4.2 billion of deposit assets as of December 31, 2023, with the remainder accounted for as reinsurance representing a $10.5 billion asset included in reinsurance recoverables and a $2.7 billion deferred loss included in other assets as of December 31, 2023. In conjunction with the Fortitude Re transaction, the Company entered into a reinsurance agreement with Lincoln National Reinsurance Company (Barbados) Limited (“LNBAR”) to cede certain blocks of in-force MoneyGuard® blocks of business to LNBAR with an effective date of October 1, 2023. The reinsurance agreement with LNBAR is accounted for using reinsurance accounting representing a $13.2 billion asset included in reinsurance recoverables and a $4.2 billion deferred gain included in other liabilities as of December 31, 2023.

Auditing the reinsurance agreements was complex due to the multiple elements of the agreements, including the evaluation of deposit accounting versus reinsurance accounting for each line of business and determination of the reinsurance recoverables, deferred gain and loss, and deposit assets.
How We Addressed the Matter in Our Audit
We obtained an understanding, evaluated the design, and tested the operating effectiveness of the controls over the accounting for the reinsurance agreements including, among others, controls related to the application of deposit or reinsurance accounting, the determination of the reinsurance recoverables, deferred gain and loss, and deposit assets.

We involved actuarial specialists to assist with our audit procedures which included, among others, assessing and confirming the terms of the agreements with Fortitude Re and LNBAR, evaluating management’s risk transfer conclusion, testing the fair value of the consideration transferred, testing the calculation of the deferred gain and loss, and reconciling the deposit assets and reinsurance recoverables to the recorded reserves based on the terms of the reinsurance agreements.

 
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1966.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
March 15, 2024


5


THE LINCOLN NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in millions, except share data)
 As of December 31,
20232022
ASSETS
Investments:
Fixed maturity available-for-sale securities, at fair value
 (amortized cost: 2023 - $88,231; 2022 - $110,944; allowance for credit losses: 2023 - $19; 2022 - $21)
$82,300 $99,465 
Trading securities2,321 3,446 
Equity securities306 427 
Mortgage loans on real estate, net of allowance for credit losses
(portion at fair value: 2023 - $288; 2022 - $487)
18,873 18,211 
Policy loans2,463 2,345 
Derivative investments6,305 3,519 
Other investments4,757 3,577 
Total investments117,325 130,990 
Cash and invested cash3,193 2,499 
Deferred acquisition costs, value of business acquired and deferred sales inducements12,418 12,263 
Reinsurance recoverables, net of allowance for credit losses45,110 21,804 
Deposit assets, net of allowance for credit losses21,056 11,628 
Market risk benefit assets3,894 2,807 
Accrued investment income982 1,234 
Goodwill1,144 1,144 
Other assets10,597 7,677 
Separate account assets158,257 143,536 
Total assets$373,976 $335,582 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY
Liabilities
Policyholder account balances$120,316 $113,972 
Future contract benefits40,174 38,302 
Funds withheld reinsurance liabilities13,628 8,255 
Market risk benefit liabilities1,716 2,078 
Deferred front-end loads5,923 5,115 
Payables for collateral on investments7,982 6,638 
Short-term debt840 562 
Long-term debt2,195 2,269 
Other liabilities12,438 6,251 
Separate account liabilities158,257 143,536 
Total liabilities363,469 326,978 
Contingencies and Commitments (See Note 18)
Stockholder’s Equity
Common stock – 10,000,000 shares authorized, issued and outstanding
12,961 12,903 
Retained earnings(869)1,414 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)(1,585)(5,713)
Total stockholder’s equity10,507 8,604 
Total liabilities and stockholder’s equity$373,976 $335,582 

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
6


THE LINCOLN NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(in millions)

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Revenues
Insurance premiums$3,416 $5,841 $5,359 
Fee income5,168 5,366 5,766 
Net investment income5,712 5,274 5,839 
Realized gain (loss)(4,934)418 859 
Amortization of deferred gain (loss) on business sold through reinsurance48 37 32 
Other revenues649 621 657 
Total revenues10,059 17,557 18,512 
Expenses
Benefits5,028 8,203 8,027 
Interest credited3,202 2,860 2,912 
Market risk benefit (gain) loss(1,135)296 (1,554)
Policyholder liability remeasurement (gain) loss(167)2,445 (119)
Commissions and other expenses5,249 4,927 5,011 
Interest and debt expense190 137 114 
Spark program expense153 167 87 
Impairment of intangibles – 634 – 
Total expenses12,520 19,669 14,478 
Income (loss) before taxes(2,461)(2,112)4,034 
Federal income tax expense (benefit)(673)(437)737 
Net income (loss)(1,788)(1,675)3,297 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Unrealized investment gain (loss)4,942 (17,639)(3,233)
Market risk benefit non-performance risk gain (loss)(670)(211)(923)
Policyholder liability discount rate remeasurement gain (loss)(145)1,891 560 
Funded status of employee benefit plans(4)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax4,128 (15,963)(3,593)
Comprehensive income (loss)$2,340 $(17,638)$(296)





See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
7


THE LINCOLN NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER’S EQUITY
(in millions)
For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Common Stock
Balance as of beginning-of-year$12,903 $11,950 $11,853 
Capital contribution from Lincoln National Corporation925 65 
Stock compensation/issued for benefit plans53 28 32 
Balance as of end-of-year12,961 12,903 11,950 
Retained Earnings
Balance as of beginning-of-year1,414 3,734 4,167 
Cumulative effect from adoption of new accounting standards– – (1,820)
Net income (loss)(1,788)(1,675)3,297 
Dividends paid to Lincoln National Corporation(495)(645)(1,910)
Balance as of end-of-year(869)1,414 3,734 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Balance as of beginning-of-year(5,713)10,250 9,021 
Cumulative effect from adoption of new accounting standards– – 4,822 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax4,128 (15,963)(3,593)
Balance as of end-of-year(1,585)(5,713)10,250 
Total stockholder’s equity as of end-of-year$10,507 $8,604 $25,934 





See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
8

Table of Contents
THE LINCOLN NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in millions)

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net income (loss)$(1,788)$(1,675)$3,297 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in)
operating activities:
Realized (gain) loss4,934 (418)(859)
Market risk benefit (gain) loss(1,135)296 (1,554)
Sales and maturities (purchases) of trading securities, net1,302 301 (87)
Amortization of deferred gain (loss) on business sold through reinsurance(48)(37)(32)
Impairment of intangibles– 634 – 
Net operating cash payments related to closing Fortitude Re reinsurance transaction(1,457)– – 
Change in:
Deferred acquisition costs, value of business acquired, deferred sales inducements
and deferred front-end loads642 495 496 
Accrued investment income34 (41)
Insurance liabilities and reinsurance-related balances(2,499)652 (893)
Accrued expenses223 (101)377 
Federal income tax accruals(563)(376)708 
Cash management agreement(733)3,730 (1,286)
Other324 406 (351)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities(764)3,866 (176)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Purchases of available-for-sale securities and equity securities(10,713)(14,768)(16,856)
Sales of available-for-sale securities and equity securities3,606 2,347 2,341 
Maturities of available-for-sale securities5,597 5,487 9,417 
Purchases of alternative investments(614)(631)(754)
Sales and repayments of alternative investments111 441 377 
Issuance of mortgage loans on real estate(1,943)(2,507)(3,057)
Repayment and maturities of mortgage loans on real estate1,266 2,247 1,873 
Repayment (issuance) of policy loans, net(120)61 
Net change in collateral on investments, certain derivatives and related settlements(333)(4,653)3,095 
Other(352)(40)(253)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities(3,495)(12,073)(3,756)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Capital contribution from Lincoln National Corporation925 65 
Payment of long-term debt, including current maturities– (40)(60)
Issuance (payment) of short-term debt228 (522)587 
Payment related to sale-leaseback transactions(79)(70)(59)
Proceeds from certain financing arrangements86 186 159 
Payment related to certain financing arrangements(49)– – 
Net financing cash proceeds related to closing Fortitude Re reinsurance transaction133 – – 
Deposits of fixed account balances16,388 16,186 13,409 
Withdrawals of fixed account balances(10,633)(7,641)(7,142)
Transfers from (to) separate accounts, net(624)19 (175)
Common stock issued for benefit plans (7)(21)(13)
Dividends paid to Lincoln National Corporation(495)(645)(1,910)
Other– (2)(60)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities4,953 8,375 4,801 
Net increase (decrease) in cash, invested cash and restricted cash694 168 869 
Cash, invested cash and restricted cash as of beginning-of-year2,499 2,331 1,462 
Cash, invested cash and restricted cash as of end-of-year$3,193 $2,499 $2,331 
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
9

THE LINCOLN NATIONAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Nature of Operations, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Nature of Operations

The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company (“LNL” or the “Company,” which also may be referred to as “we,” “our” or “us”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lincoln National Corporation (“LNC” or the “Parent Company”), is domiciled in the state of Indiana. We own 100% of the outstanding common stock of one insurance company subsidiary, Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York (“LLANY”). We also own several non-insurance companies, including Lincoln Financial Distributors, our wholesale distributor, and Lincoln Financial Advisors Corporation, part of LNC’s retail distributor, Lincoln Financial Network. LNL is licensed and sells its products throughout the U.S. and several U.S. territories. Through our business segments, we sell a wide range of wealth accumulation, wealth protection, group protection and retirement income products and solutions. These products primarily include variable annuities, fixed annuities (including indexed), registered index-linked annuities (“RILA”), universal life insurance (“UL”), variable universal life insurance (“VUL”), linked-benefit UL and VUL, indexed universal life insurance (“IUL”), term life insurance, group life, disability and dental and employer-sponsored retirement plans and services. For more information on our segments and the products and solutions we provide, see Note 20.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with United States of America generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Certain GAAP policies, which significantly affect the determination of financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, are summarized below.

Certain amounts reported in prior year’s Consolidated Balance Sheet have been reclassified to conform to the presentation adopted in the current year.

On January 1, 2023, we adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2018-12, Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Long-Duration Contracts and related amendments (“ASU 2018-12”) with a transition date of January 1, 2021. ASU 2018-12 updated accounting and reporting requirements for long-duration contracts and certain investment contracts issued by insurance entities. We adopted ASU 2018-12 under the modified retrospective approach, except for market risk benefits (“MRBs”), which applied the full retrospective approach. Our consolidated financial statements are presented under the new guidance for reporting periods beginning January 1, 2021.

We present disaggregated disclosures in the Notes below for long-duration insurance balances, applying the level of aggregation by reportable segment as follows:

Reportable SegmentLevel of Aggregation
AnnuitiesVariable Annuities
Fixed Annuities
Payout Annuities
Life InsuranceTraditional Life
UL and Other
Group ProtectionGroup Protection
Retirement Plan ServicesRetirement Plan Services

The variable annuities level of aggregation includes RILA products, which are indexed variable annuities. The fixed annuities level of aggregation represents deferred fixed annuities. We have excluded amounts reported in Other Operations from our disaggregated disclosures that are attributable to the indemnity reinsurance agreements with Protective Life Insurance Company (“Protective”) and Swiss Re Life & Health America, Inc (“Swiss Re”) as these contracts are fully reinsured, run-off institutional pension business in the form of group annuity and the results of certain disability income business and not reflected in the results of the reportable segments listed above.

Sale of Wealth Management Business

On December 14, 2023, our parent company LNC announced that it had entered into a Stock Purchase Agreement with Osaic Holdings, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Osaic”), pursuant to which Osaic agreed to acquire all of the ownership interests in the subsidiaries of LNC that comprise its wealth management business, including our subsidiary Lincoln Financial Advisors Corporation. We anticipate the
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transaction will close in the first half of 2024, subject to receipt of required regulatory approvals and satisfying other customary closing conditions.

As of December 31, 2023, we had assets of $120 million and liabilities of $77 million classified as held-for-sale and reported within other assets and other liabilities, respectively, on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. The assets are reported primarily within Other Operations in Note 20.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of LNL and all other entities in which we have a controlling financial interest and any variable interest entities (“VIEs”) in which we are the primary beneficiary. We use the equity method of accounting to recognize all of our investments in limited partnerships (“LPs”). All material inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Our involvement with VIEs is primarily to invest in assets that allow us to gain exposure to a broadly diversified portfolio of asset classes. A VIE is an entity that does not have sufficient equity to finance its own activities without additional financial support or where investors lack certain characteristics of a controlling financial interest. We assess our contractual, ownership or other interests in a VIE to determine if our interest participates in the variability the VIE was designed to absorb and pass onto variable interest holders. We perform an ongoing qualitative assessment of our variable interests in VIEs to determine whether we have a controlling financial interest and would therefore be considered the primary beneficiary of the VIE. If we determine we are the primary beneficiary of a VIE, we consolidate the assets and liabilities of the VIE in the consolidated financial statements.

Accounting Estimates and Assumptions

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions affecting the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses for the reporting period. In applying these estimates and assumptions, management makes subjective and complex judgments that frequently require assumptions about matters that are uncertain and inherently subject to change. Actual results could differ from these estimates and assumptions. Included among the material (or potentially material) reported amounts and disclosures that require use of estimates are: fair value of certain financial assets, derivatives, allowances for credit losses, goodwill and other intangibles, MRBs, future contract benefits, income taxes including the recoverability of our deferred tax assets, and the potential effects of resolving litigated matters.

Business Combinations

We use the acquisition method of accounting for all business combination transactions, and accordingly, recognize the fair values of assets acquired, liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interests in the consolidated financial statements. The allocation of fair values may be subject to adjustment after the initial allocation for up to a one-year period as more information becomes available relative to the fair values as of the acquisition date. The consolidated financial statements include the results of operations of any acquired company since the acquisition date.
 
Fair Value Measurement

Our measurement of fair value is based on assumptions used by market participants in pricing the asset or liability, which may include inherent risk, restrictions on the sale or use of an asset or non-performance risk, which would include our own credit risk. Our estimate of an exchange price is the price in an orderly transaction between market participants to sell the asset or transfer the liability (“exit price”) in the principal market, or the most advantageous market in the absence of a principal market, for that asset or liability, as opposed to the price that would be paid to acquire the asset or receive a liability (“entry price”). Pursuant to the Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures Topic of the FASB Accounting Standards CodificationTM (“ASC”), we categorize our financial instruments carried at fair value into a three-level fair value hierarchy, based on the priority of inputs to the respective valuation technique. The three-level hierarchy for fair value measurement is defined as follows:

Level 1 – inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted prices available in active markets for identical investments as of the reporting date, except for large holdings subject to “blockage discounts” that are excluded;
Level 2 – inputs to the valuation methodology are other than quoted prices in active markets, which are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reporting date, and fair value can be determined through the use of models or other valuation methodologies; and
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Level 3 – inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable inputs in situations where there is little or no market activity for the asset or liability, and we make estimates and assumptions related to the pricing of the asset or liability, including assumptions regarding risk.

In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, the level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment and considers factors specific to the investment.

When a determination is made to classify an asset or liability within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy, the determination is based upon the significance of the unobservable inputs to the overall fair value measurement. Because certain securities trade in less liquid or illiquid markets with limited or no pricing information, the determination of fair value for these securities is inherently more difficult. However, Level 3 fair value investments may include, in addition to the unobservable or Level 3 inputs, observable components, which are components that are actively quoted or can be validated to market-based sources.

Fixed Maturity Available-For-Sale Securities – Fair Valuation Methodologies and Associated Inputs

Securities classified as available-for-sale (“AFS”) consist of fixed maturity securities and are stated at fair value with unrealized gains and losses included within accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (“AOCI”).

We measure the fair value of our securities classified as fixed maturity AFS based on assumptions used by market participants in pricing the security. The most appropriate valuation methodology is selected based on the specific characteristics of the fixed maturity security, and we consistently apply the valuation methodology to measure the security’s fair value. Our fair value measurement is based on a market approach that utilizes prices and other relevant information generated by market transactions involving identical or comparable securities. Sources of inputs to the market approach primarily include third-party pricing services, independent broker quotations or pricing matrices. We do not adjust prices received from third parties; however, we do analyze the third-party pricing services’ valuation methodologies and related inputs and perform additional evaluation to determine the appropriate level within the fair value hierarchy.

The observable and unobservable inputs to our valuation methodologies are based on a set of standard inputs that we generally use to evaluate all of our fixed maturity AFS securities. Observable inputs include benchmark yields, reported trades, broker-dealer quotes, issuer spreads, two-sided markets, benchmark securities, bids, offers and reference data. In addition, market indicators, industry and economic events are monitored, and further market data is acquired if certain triggers are met. For certain security types, additional inputs may be used, or some of the inputs described above may not be applicable. For private placement securities, we use pricing matrices that utilize observable pricing inputs of similar public securities and Treasury yields as inputs to the fair value measurement. Depending on the type of security or the daily market activity, standard inputs may be prioritized differently or may not be available for all fixed maturity AFS securities on any given day. For broker-quoted only securities, non-binding quotes from market makers or broker-dealers are obtained from sources recognized as market participants. For securities trading in less liquid or illiquid markets with limited or no pricing information, we use unobservable inputs to measure fair value.
 
The following summarizes our fair valuation methodologies and associated inputs, which are particular to the specified security type and are in addition to the defined standard inputs to our valuation methodologies for all of our fixed maturity AFS securities discussed above:

Corporate bonds and U.S. government bonds – We also use Trade Reporting and Compliance EngineTM reported tables for our corporate bonds and vendor trading platform data for our U.S. government bonds.
Mortgage- and asset-backed securities (“ABS”) – We also utilize additional inputs, which include new issues data, monthly payment information and monthly collateral performance, including prepayments, severity, delinquencies, step-down features and over collateralization features for each of our mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”), which include collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage pass through securities backed by residential mortgages (“RMBS”), commercial mortgage-backed securities (“CMBS”) and collateralized loan obligations (“CLOs”).
State and municipal bonds – We also use additional inputs that include information from the Municipal Securities Rule Making Board, as well as material event notices, new issue data, issuer financial statements and Municipal Market Data benchmark yields for our state and municipal bonds.
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities – We also utilize additional inputs of exchange prices (underlying and common stock of the same issuer) for our hybrid and redeemable preferred securities.

In order to validate the pricing information and broker-dealer quotes, we employ, where possible, procedures that include comparisons with similar observable positions, comparisons with subsequent sales and observations of general market movements for those security classes. We have policies and procedures in place to review the process that is utilized by our third-party pricing service and the output that is provided to us by the pricing service. On a periodic basis, we test the pricing for a sample of securities to evaluate the inputs and assumptions used by the pricing service, and we perform a comparison of the pricing service output to an alternative pricing source.  We
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also evaluate prices provided by our primary pricing service to ensure that they are not stale or unreasonable by reviewing the prices for unusual changes from period to period based on certain parameters or for lack of change from one period to the next. 

Fixed Maturity AFS Securities – Evaluation for Recovery of Amortized Cost

We regularly review our fixed maturity AFS securities (also referred to as “debt securities”) for declines in fair value that we determine to be impairment-related, including those attributable to credit risk factors that may require a credit loss allowance.

For our debt securities, we generally consider the following to determine whether our debt securities with unrealized losses are credit impaired:

The estimated range and average period until recovery;
The estimated range and average holding period to maturity;
Remaining payment terms of the security;
Current delinquencies and nonperforming assets of underlying collateral;
Expected future default rates;
Collateral value by vintage, geographic region, industry concentration or property type;
Subordination levels or other credit enhancements as of the balance sheet date as compared to origination; and
Contractual and regulatory cash obligations.

For a debt security, if we intend to sell a security, or it is more likely than not we will be required to sell a debt security before recovery of its amortized cost basis and the fair value of the debt security is below amortized cost, we conclude that an impairment has occurred and the amortized cost is written down to current fair value, with a corresponding charge to realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). For debt securities where impairment has been recognized, the difference between the new amortized cost basis and the cash flows expected to be collected are accreted as interest income and recognized in net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). If we do not intend to sell a debt security, or it is not more likely than not we will be required to sell a debt security before recovery of its amortized cost basis but the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected is less than the amortized cost of the debt security (referred to as the credit loss), we conclude that an impairment has occurred, and a credit loss allowance is recorded, with a corresponding charge to realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). The remainder of the decline to fair value related to factors other than credit loss is recorded in other comprehensive income (“OCI”) to unrealized losses on fixed maturity AFS securities on the Consolidated Statements of Stockholder’s Equity, as this amount is considered a noncredit impairment.

When assessing our intent to sell a debt security, or if it is more likely than not we will be required to sell a debt security before recovery of its cost basis, we evaluate facts and circumstances such as, but not limited to, decisions to reposition our security portfolio, sales of securities to meet cash flow needs and sales of securities to capitalize on favorable pricing. Management considers the following as part of the evaluation:

The current economic environment and market conditions;
Our business strategy and current business plans;
The nature and type of security, including expected maturities and exposure to general credit, liquidity, market and interest rate risk;
Our analysis of data from financial models and other internal and industry sources to evaluate the current effectiveness of our hedging and overall risk management strategies;
The current and expected timing of contractual maturities of our assets and liabilities, expectations of prepayments on investments and expectations for surrenders and withdrawals of annuity contracts and life insurance policies;
The capital risk limits approved by management; and
Our current financial condition and liquidity demands.

In order to determine the amount of the credit loss for a debt security, we calculate the recovery value by performing a discounted cash flow analysis based on the current cash flows and future cash flows we expect to recover. The discount rate is the effective interest rate implicit in the underlying debt security. The effective interest rate is the original yield, or the coupon if the debt security was previously impaired. See the discussion below for additional information on the methodology and significant inputs, by security type, that we use to determine the amount of a credit loss.

To determine the recovery period of a debt security, we consider the facts and circumstances surrounding the underlying issuer including, but not limited to, the following:

Historical and implied volatility of the security;
The extent to which the fair value has been less than amortized cost;
Adverse conditions specifically related to the security or to specific conditions in an industry or geographic area;
Failure, if any, of the issuer of the security to make scheduled payments; and
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Recoveries or additional declines in fair value subsequent to the balance sheet date.

In periods subsequent to the recognition of a credit loss impairment through a credit loss allowance, we continue to reassess the expected cash flows of the debt security at each subsequent measurement date as necessary. If the measurement of credit loss changes, we recognize a provision for (or reversal of) credit loss expense through realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss), limited by the amount that amortized cost exceeds fair value. Losses are charged against the allowance for credit losses when management believes the uncollectibility of a debt security is confirmed or when either of the criteria regarding intent or requirement to sell is met. Accrued interest on debt securities is written-off through net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) when deemed uncollectible.

To determine the recovery value of a corporate bond or CLO, we perform additional analysis related to the underlying issuer including, but not limited to, the following:

Fundamentals of the issuer to determine what we would recover if they were to file bankruptcy versus the price at which the market is trading;
Fundamentals of the industry in which the issuer operates;
Earnings multiples for the given industry or sector of an industry that the underlying issuer operates within, divided by the outstanding debt to determine an expected recovery value of the security in the case of a liquidation;
Expected cash flows of the issuer (e.g., whether the issuer has cash flows in excess of what is required to fund its operations);
Expectations regarding defaults and recovery rates;
Changes to the rating of the security by a rating agency; and
Additional market information (e.g., if there has been a replacement of the corporate debt security).
 
Each quarter, we review the cash flows for the MBS portfolio, including current credit enhancements and trends in the underlying collateral performance to determine whether or not they are sufficient to provide for the recovery of our amortized cost. To determine recovery value of a MBS, we perform additional analysis related to the underlying issuer including, but not limited to, the following:

Discounted cash flow analysis based on the current cash flows and future cash flows we expect to recover;
Level of borrower creditworthiness of the home equity loans or residential mortgages that back an RMBS or commercial mortgages that back a CMBS;
Susceptibility to fair value fluctuations for changes in the interest rate environment;
Susceptibility to reinvestment risks, in cases where market yields are lower than the securities’ book yield earned;
Susceptibility to reinvestment risks, in cases where market yields are higher than the book yields earned on a security;
Expectations of sale of such a security where market yields are higher than the book yields earned on a security; and
Susceptibility to variability of prepayments.

When evaluating MBS and mortgage-related ABS, we consider a number of pool-specific factors as well as market level factors when determining whether or not the impairment on the security requires a credit loss allowance. The most important factor is the performance of the underlying collateral in the security and the trends of that performance in the prior periods. We use this information about the collateral to forecast the timing and rate of mortgage loan defaults, including making projections for loans that are already delinquent and for those loans that are currently performing but may become delinquent in the future. Other factors used in this analysis include the credit characteristics of borrowers, geographic distribution of underlying loans and timing of liquidations by state. Once default rates and timing assumptions are determined, we then make assumptions regarding the severity of a default if it were to occur. Factors that impact the severity assumption include expectations for future home price appreciation or depreciation, loan size, first lien versus second lien, existence of loan level private mortgage insurance, type of occupancy and geographic distribution of loans. Once default and severity assumptions are determined for the security in question, cash flows for the underlying collateral are projected including expected defaults and prepayments. These cash flows on the collateral are then translated to cash flows on our tranche based on the cash flow waterfall of the entire capital security structure. If this analysis indicates the entire principal on a particular security will not be returned, the security is reviewed for a credit loss by comparing the expected cash flows to amortized cost. To the extent that the security has already been impaired through a credit loss allowance or was purchased at a discount, such that the amortized cost of the security is less than or equal to the present value of cash flows expected to be collected, no credit loss allowance is required. Otherwise, if the amortized cost of the security is greater than the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected, and the security was not purchased at a discount greater than the expected principal loss, then an impairment through a credit loss allowance is recognized.

We further monitor the cash flows of all of our debt securities backed by mortgages on an ongoing basis. We also perform detailed analysis on all of our subprime, Alt-A, non-agency residential MBS and on a significant percentage of our debt securities backed by pools of commercial mortgages. The detailed analysis includes revising projected cash flows by updating the cash flows for actual cash received and applying assumptions with respect to expected defaults, foreclosures and recoveries in the future. These revised projected cash flows are then compared to the amount of credit enhancement (subordination) in the structure to determine whether the amortized cost of the security is recoverable. If it is not recoverable, we record an impairment through a credit loss allowance for the security.

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Trading Securities

Trading securities consist of fixed maturity securities in designated portfolios, some of which support modified coinsurance and coinsurance with funds withheld reinsurance agreements. Investment results for the portfolios that support modified coinsurance and coinsurance with funds withheld reinsurance agreements, including gains and losses from sales, are passed directly to the reinsurers pursuant to contractual terms of the reinsurance agreements. Trading securities are carried at fair value, and changes in fair value and changes in the fair value of embedded derivative liabilities associated with the underlying reinsurance agreements are recorded in realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) as they occur.

Equity Securities

Equity securities are carried at fair value, and changes in fair value are recorded in realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) as they occur. Equity securities consist primarily of common stock of publicly-traded companies, privately placed securities and mutual fund shares. We measure the fair value of our equity securities based on assumptions used by market participants in pricing the security. The most appropriate valuation methodology is selected based on the specific characteristics of the equity security. Fair values of publicly-traded equity securities are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical or comparable securities. When quoted prices are not available, we use valuation methodologies most appropriate for the specific asset. Fair values for private placement securities are determined using discounted cash flow, earnings multiple and other valuation models. The fair values of mutual fund shares that transact regularly are based on transaction prices of identical fund shares.

Mortgage Loans on Real Estate

Mortgage loans on real estate consist of commercial and residential mortgage loans and are generally carried at unpaid principal balances adjusted for amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts and are net of allowance for credit losses. We carry certain mortgage loans associated with modified coinsurance agreements at fair value where the fair value option has been elected. Interest income is accrued on the principal balance of the loan based on the loan’s contractual interest rate. Premiums and discounts are amortized using the effective yield method over the life of the loan. Interest income and amortization of premiums and discounts are reported in net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) along with mortgage loan fees, which are recorded as they are incurred.

Our policy for commercial mortgage loans is to report loans that are 60 or more days past due, which equates to two or more payments missed, as delinquent. Our policy for residential mortgage loans is to report loans that are 90 or more days past due, which equates to three or more payments missed, as delinquent. We do not accrue interest on loans 90 days past due, and any interest received on these loans is either applied to the principal or recorded in net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) when received, depending on the assessment of the collectability of the loan. We resume accruing interest once a loan complies with all of its original terms or restructured terms. Mortgage loans deemed uncollectible are charged against the allowance for credit losses, and subsequent recoveries, if any, are likewise credited to the allowance for credit losses. Accrued interest on mortgage loans is written-off when deemed uncollectible.

In connection with our recognition of an allowance for credit losses for mortgage loans on real estate, we perform a quantitative analysis using a probability of default/loss given default/exposure at default approach to estimate expected credit losses in our mortgage loan portfolio as well as unfunded commitments related to commercial mortgage loans, exclusive of certain mortgage loans held at fair value. Our model estimates expected credit losses over the contractual terms of the loans, which are the periods over which we are exposed to credit risk, adjusted for expected prepayments. Credit loss estimates are segmented by commercial mortgage loans, residential mortgage loans, and unfunded commitments related to commercial mortgage loans.

The allowance for credit losses for pooled loans of similar risk (i.e., commercial and residential mortgage loans) is estimated using relevant historical credit loss information adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future conditions. Historical credit loss experience provides the basis for the estimation of expected credit losses with adjustments for differences in current loan-specific risk characteristics, such as differences in underwriting standards, portfolio mix, delinquency level, or term lengths as well as adjustments for changes in environmental conditions, such as unemployment rates, property values, or other factors that management deems relevant. We apply probability weights to the positive, base and adverse scenarios we use. For periods beyond our reasonable and supportable forecast, we use implicit mean reversion over the remaining life of the recoverable, meaning our model will inherently revert to the baseline scenario as the baseline is representative of the historical average over a longer period of time.

Loans are considered impaired when it is probable that, based upon current information and events, we will be unable to collect all amounts due under the contractual terms of the loan agreement. When we determine that a loan is impaired, a specific credit loss allowance is established for the excess carrying value of the loan over its estimated value. The loan’s estimated value is based on: the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate; the loan’s observable market price; or the fair value of the loan’s collateral.

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Allowance for credit losses are maintained at a level we believe is adequate to absorb current expected lifetime credit losses. Our periodic evaluation of the adequacy of the allowance for credit losses is based on historical loss experience, known and inherent risks in the portfolio, adverse situations that may affect the borrower’s ability to repay (including the timing of future payments), the estimated value of the underlying collateral, composition of the loan portfolio, current economic conditions, reasonable and supportable forecasts about the future and other relevant factors.

Mortgage loans on real estate are presented net of the allowance for credit losses on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Changes in the allowance are reported in realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). Mortgage loans on real estate deemed uncollectible are charged against the allowance for credit losses, and subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance for credit losses, limited to the aggregate of amounts previously charged-off and expected to be charged-off.

Our commercial loan portfolio is primarily comprised of long-term loans secured by existing commercial real estate. We believe all of the commercial loans in our portfolio share three primary risks: borrower credit worthiness; sustainability of the cash flow of the property; and market risk; therefore, our methods of monitoring and assessing credit risk are consistent for our entire portfolio.

For our commercial mortgage loan portfolio, trends in market vacancy and rental rates are incorporated into the analysis that we perform for monitored loans and may contribute to the establishment of (or an increase or decrease in) an allowance for credit losses. In addition, we review each loan individually in our commercial mortgage loan portfolio on an annual basis to identify emerging risks. We focus on properties that experienced a reduction in debt-service coverage or that have significant exposure to tenants with deteriorating credit profiles. Where warranted, we establish or increase a credit loss allowance for a specific loan based upon this analysis.

We measure and assess the credit quality of our commercial mortgage loans by using loan-to-value and debt-service coverage ratios. The loan-to-value ratio compares the principal amount of the loan to the fair value at origination of the underlying property collateralizing the loan and is commonly expressed as a percentage. Loan-to-value ratios greater than 100% indicate that the principal amount is greater than the collateral value. Therefore, all else being equal, a lower loan-to-value ratio generally indicates a higher quality loan. The debt-service coverage ratio compares a property’s net operating income to its debt-service payments. Debt-service coverage ratios of less than 1.0 indicate that property operations do not generate enough income to cover its current debt payments. Therefore, all else being equal, a higher debt-service coverage ratio generally indicates a higher quality loan. These credit quality metrics are monitored and reviewed at least annually.

We have off-balance sheet commitments related to commercial mortgage loans. As such, an allowance for credit losses is developed based on the commercial mortgage loan process outlined above, along with an internally developed conversion factor.

Our residential loan portfolio is primarily comprised of first lien mortgages secured by existing residential real estate. In contrast to the commercial mortgage loan portfolio, residential mortgage loans are primarily smaller-balance homogenous loans that share similar risk characteristics. Therefore, these pools of loans are collectively evaluated for inherent credit losses. Such evaluations consider numerous factors, including, but not limited to borrower credit scores, collateral values, loss forecasts, geographic location, delinquency rates and economic trends. These evaluations and assessments are revised as conditions change and new information becomes available, including updated forecasts, which can cause the allowance for credit losses to increase or decrease over time as such evaluations are revised. Generally, residential mortgage loan pools exclude loans that are nonperforming, as those loans are evaluated individually using the evaluation framework for specific allowance for credit losses described above.

For residential mortgage loans, our primary credit quality indicator is whether the loan is performing or nonperforming. We generally define nonperforming residential mortgage loans as those that are 90 or more days past due and/or in nonaccrual status. There is generally a higher risk of experiencing credit losses when a residential mortgage loan is nonperforming. We monitor and update aging schedules and nonaccrual status on a monthly basis.

Policy Loans

Policy loans represent loans we issue to policyholders that use the cash surrender value of their life insurance policy as collateral. Policy loans are carried at unpaid principal balances.

Derivative Instruments

We hedge certain portions of our exposure to interest rate risk, foreign currency exchange risk, equity market risk, basis risk, commodity risk and credit risk by entering into derivative transactions. Our derivative instruments are recognized as either assets or liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at estimated fair value. We have master netting agreements with each of our derivative counterparties that allow for the netting of our derivative asset and liability positions by counterparty. We categorize derivatives into a three-level hierarchy, based on the priority of the inputs to the respective valuation technique as discussed above in “Fair Value Measurement.” The accounting for changes in the estimated fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether it has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging relationship, and further, on the type of hedging relationship. For those derivative instruments that are designated and
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qualify as hedging instruments, we designate the hedging instrument based upon the exposure being hedged: as a cash flow hedge or a fair value hedge.

For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of AOCI and reclassified into net income in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects net income. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a fair value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative instrument, as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in net income during the period of change in estimated fair values. For derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments, but that are economic hedges, the gain or loss is recognized in net income.

We purchase and issue financial instruments and products that contain embedded derivative instruments that are recorded with the associated host contract. When it is determined that the embedded derivative possesses economic characteristics that are not clearly and closely related to the economic characteristics of the host contract, and a separate instrument with the same terms would qualify as a derivative instrument, the embedded derivative is bifurcated from the host for measurement purposes and reported within other assets or other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The embedded derivative is carried at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income during the period of change.

We employ several different methods for determining the fair value of our derivative instruments. The fair value of our derivative contracts are measured based on current settlement values, which are based on quoted market prices, industry standard models that are commercially available and broker quotes. These techniques project cash flows of the derivatives using current and implied future market conditions. We calculate the present value of the cash flows to measure the current fair market value of the derivative.

Other Investments

Other investments consist primarily of alternative investments, cash collateral receivables related to our derivative instruments, Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) common stock and short-term investments.

Alternative investments consist primarily of investments in LPs. We account for our investments in LPs using the equity method to determine the carrying value. Recognition of alternative investment income is delayed due to the availability of the related financial statements, which are generally obtained from the partnerships’ general partners. As a result, our private equity investments are generally on a three-month delay and our hedge funds are on a one-month delay. In addition, the impact of audit adjustments related to completion of calendar-year financial statement audits of the investees are typically received during the second quarter of each calendar year. Accordingly, our investment income from alternative investments for any calendar-year period may not include the complete impact of the change in the underlying net assets for the partnership for that calendar-year period.

In uncleared derivative transactions, we and the counterparty enter into a credit support annex requiring either party to post collateral, which may be in the form of cash, equal to the net derivative exposure. Cash collateral we have posted to a counterparty is recorded within other investments. Cash collateral a counterparty has posted is recorded within payables for collateral on investments. We also have investments in FHLB common stock, carried at cost, that enable access to the FHLB lending program. For more information on our collateralized financing arrangements, see “Payables for Collateral on Investments” below.

Short-term investments consist of securities with original maturities of one year or less, but greater than three months. Securities included in short-term investments are carried at fair value, with valuation methods and inputs consistent with those applied to fixed maturity AFS securities.

Cash and Invested Cash

Cash and invested cash is carried at cost and includes all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less.

DAC, VOBA, DSI and DFEL

Acquisition costs directly related to successful contract acquisitions or renewals of annuities, UL, VUL, traditional life insurance, group life and disability insurance and other investment contracts have been deferred (i.e., deferred acquisition costs or “DAC”). Such acquisition costs are capitalized in the period they are incurred and primarily include commissions, certain bonuses, a portion of total compensation and benefits of certain employees involved in the acquisition process and medical and inspection fees. Value of business acquired (“VOBA”) is an intangible asset that reflects the estimated fair value of in-force contracts in a life insurance company acquisition and represents the portion of the purchase price that is allocated to the value of the right to receive future cash flows from the business in force at the acquisition date. Bonus credits and excess interest for dollar cost averaging contracts are considered deferred sales inducements (“DSI”) and reported in deferred acquisition costs, value of business acquired and deferred sales inducements on the
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Consolidated Balance Sheets. Contract sales charges that are collected in the early years of an insurance contract are deferred and reported as deferred front-end loads (“DFEL”) on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

DAC, VOBA, DSI and DFEL amortization is reported within the following financial statement line items on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):

DAC and VOBA – commissions and other expenses
DSI – interest credited
DFEL – fee income

DAC, VOBA, DSI and DFEL are amortized on a constant level basis relative to the insurance in force over the expected term of the related contracts using the groupings and actuarial assumptions that are consistent with those used for calculating the related policyholder liability balances. Actuarial assumptions include, but are not limited to, mortality, morbidity and certain policyholder behaviors such as persistency, which are adjusted for emerging experience and expected trends of the related long-duration insurance contracts and certain investment contracts by each reportable segment. During the third quarter of each year, we conduct our comprehensive review and update these actuarial assumptions. We may update our actuarial assumptions in other quarters as we become aware of information that warrants updating outside of our comprehensive review. These resulting changes are applied prospectively.

The following provides a summary of our DAC, VOBA, DSI and DFEL amortization basis and expected amortization period by reportable segment:

Reportable SegmentAmortization BasisExpected Amortization Period
AnnuitiesTotal deposits paid to date on policies in force
Between 30 to 40 years
Life InsurancePolicy count of policies in force
On average 60 years
Group ProtectionGroup certificate contracts in force
4 years
Retirement Plan ServicesLives in force
Between 40 to 50 years

We account for modifications of insurance contracts that result in a substantially unchanged contract as a continuation of the replaced contract. We account for modifications of insurance contracts that result in a substantially changed contract as an extinguishment of the replaced contract.

For reinsurance transactions where we receive proceeds that represent recovery of our previously incurred acquisition costs, we reduce the applicable unamortized acquisition cost such that net acquisition costs are capitalized and charged to commissions and other expenses.

Reinsurance

We and LLANY enter into reinsurance agreements in the normal course of business to limit our exposure to the risk of loss and to enhance our capital management.

In order for a reinsurance agreement to qualify for reinsurance accounting, the agreement must satisfy certain risk transfer conditions that include, among other items, a reasonable possibility of a significant loss for the assuming entity. When we apply reinsurance accounting, insurance premiums, benefits and DAC and VOBA amortization are reported net of reinsurance ceded, as applicable, on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). Amounts currently recoverable, such as ceded reserves, other than ceded MRBs, are reported in reinsurance recoverables, and amounts currently payable to the reinsurers, such as premiums, are included in other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
In a modified coinsurance or coinsurance with funds withheld reinsurance structured agreement, the investments that would have been sent to the reinsurer as premiums are withheld by us and remain on our Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the existing accounting maintained. A corresponding liability is recognized on our Consolidated Balance Sheets within funds withheld reinsurance liabilities representing our obligation to pay the reinsurer. This liability includes embedded derivatives, which are total return swaps with contractual returns that are attributable to various assets and liabilities associated with these reinsurance agreements. The changes in the embedded derivative liabilities are reported within realized gain (loss) on our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

We use deposit accounting to recognize reinsurance agreements that do not transfer significant insurance risk. This accounting treatment results in amounts paid or received by us to be considered on deposit with the reinsurer and such amounts are reported in deposit assets, net of allowance for credit losses and other liabilities, respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. As amounts are paid or received, consistent with the underlying contracts, deposit assets or liabilities are adjusted.

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Reinsurance recoverables are measured and recognized consistent with the liabilities related to the underlying contracts. The interest assumption used for discounting reinsurance recoverables associated with limited payment life-contingent annuity contracts and non-participating traditional life insurance contracts is the upper-medium grade fixed income instrument (“single-A”) interest rate locked-in at the reinsurance contract issuance date. We remeasure reinsurance recoverables associated with limited payment life-contingent annuity contracts and non-participating traditional life insurance contracts with the current single-A interest rate as of the end of each reporting period. Ceded MRBs are accounted for separately from reinsurance recoverables. See “MRBs” below for additional information.

We estimated an allowance for credit losses for all reinsurance recoverables and related reinsurance deposit assets held by our subsidiaries, other than ceded MRB assets. As such, we performed a quantitative analysis using a probability of loss model approach to estimate expected credit losses for reinsurance recoverables, inclusive of similar assets recognized using the deposit method of accounting. The credit loss allowance is a general allowance for pools of receivables with similar risk characteristics segmented by credit risk ratings and receivables assessed on an individual basis that do not share similar risk characteristics where we anticipate a credit loss over the life of reinsurance-related assets, other than ceded MRB assets.

Our model uses relevant internal or external historical loss information adjusted for current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts of future events and conditions in developing our credit loss estimate. We utilized historical credit rating data to form an estimation of probability of default of counterparties by means of a transition matrix that provides the rates of credit migration for credit ratings transitioning to impairment. We updated reinsurer credit ratings during the period to incorporate the most up-to-date information on the current state of the financial stability of our reinsurers. To simulate changes in economic conditions, we used positive, base and adverse scenarios that include varying levels of loss given default assumptions to reflect the impact of changes in severity of losses. We applied probability weights to the positive, base and adverse scenarios. For periods beyond our reasonable and supportable forecasts, we used implicit mean reversion over the remaining life of the recoverable. Additionally, we considered factors that impact our exposure at default that are driven by actuarial expectations around term assumptions rather than being directly driven by market or economic environment.

Our model estimates the expected credit losses over the life of the reinsurance asset. Credit loss estimates are segmented based on counterparty credit risk. Our modeling process utilizes counterparty credit ratings, collateral types and amounts, and term and run-off assumptions. For reinsurance recoverables that do not share similar risk characteristics, we assessed on an individual basis to determine a specific credit loss allowance.

We estimated expected credit losses over the contractual term of the recoverable, which is the period during which we are exposed to the credit risk. Reinsurance recoverables may not have explicit contractual lives, but are tied to the underlying insurance products; as a result, we estimated the contractual life by utilizing actuarial estimates of the timing of payouts related to those underlying products.

Reinsurance agreements often require the reinsurer to collateralize the recoverable with funds in a trust account or with a letter of credit for the benefit of the ceding insurance entity that can reduce the expected credit losses on a given agreement. As such, we review reinsurance collateral by individual agreement to sensitize risk of loss based on level of collateralization. This review is driven by the assumption that non-collateralized reinsurance recoverables would have materially higher losses in times of default. Therefore, reinsurance recoverables are pooled as either fully-collateralized or non-collateralized.

Reinsurance recoverables are presented net of the allowance for credit losses on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Changes in the allowance for credit losses are reported in realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). Reinsurance recoverables deemed uncollectible are charged against the allowance for credit losses, and subsequent recoveries, if any, are credited to the allowance for credit losses, limited to the aggregate of amounts previously charged-off and expected to be charged-off.

Where applicable, gains or losses recognized on reinsurance transactions are deferred and amortized into net income (loss) using an amortization basis reflective of the characteristics of the underlying ceded business. Our deferred gains and losses on reinsurance of our interest-sensitive life insurance products are recognized over the projected life of the policies, based on projected profitability or projected reserve development for blocks with negative profitability. Our deferred gains and losses on reinsurance of our annuity products are recognized over the period in which the majority of account balances is expected to run off. Deferred gains and losses are reported within other liabilities and other assets, respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Goodwill

We recognize the excess of the purchase price, plus the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired as goodwill. Goodwill is not amortized, but is reviewed for impairment annually as of October 1 and more frequently if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value.

We perform a quantitative goodwill impairment test where the fair value of the reporting unit is determined and compared to the carrying value of the reporting unit. If the carrying value of the reporting unit is greater than the reporting unit’s fair value, goodwill is impaired
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and written down to the reporting unit’s fair value; and a charge is reported in impairment of intangibles on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). The results of one goodwill impairment test on one reporting unit cannot subsidize the results of another reporting unit.

Other Assets and Other Liabilities

Other assets consist primarily of deferred loss on business sold through reinsurance, certain reinsurance assets, property and equipment, balances associated with corporate-owned and bank-owned life insurance, premiums and fees receivable, receivables resulting from sales of securities that had not yet settled as of the balance sheet date, current and deferred taxes, specifically identifiable intangible assets, funds withheld reinsurance assets, ceded MRB liabilities, operating lease right-of-use (“ROU”) assets, finance lease assets and other receivables and prepaid expenses. Other liabilities consist primarily of deferred gain on business sold through reinsurance, ceded MRB assets, pension and other employee benefit liabilities, certain financing arrangements, payables resulting from purchases of securities that had not yet settled as of the balance sheet date, derivative instrument liabilities, other policyholder liabilities, certain reinsurance payables, long-term operating lease liabilities, finance lease liabilities and other accrued expenses.

The carrying values of specifically identifiable intangible assets are reviewed at least annually for indicators of impairment in value that are related to credit loss or non-credit, including unexpected or adverse changes in the following: the economic or competitive environments in which the company operates; profitability analyses; cash flow analyses; and the fair value of the relevant business operation. If there was an indication of impairment, then the discounted cash flow method would be used to measure the impairment, and the carrying value would be adjusted as necessary and reported in impairment of intangibles on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). Sales force intangibles are attributable to the value of the new business distribution system acquired through business combinations. These assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their useful life of 25 years. Specifically identifiable intangible assets also includes the value of customer relationships acquired (“VOCRA”) and value of distribution agreements (“VODA”). The carrying values of VOCRA and VODA are amortized using a straight-line basis over their weighted average life of 20 years and 13 years, respectively. See Note 9 for more information regarding specifically identifiable intangible assets.

Property and equipment owned for company use is carried at cost less allowances for depreciation. Provisions for depreciation of investment real estate and property and equipment owned for company use are computed principally on the straight-line method over the
estimated useful lives of the assets, which include buildings, computer hardware and software and other property and equipment. Certain assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are related to finance leases and certain financing arrangements and are depreciated in a manner consistent with our current depreciation policy for owned assets. We periodically review the carrying value of our long-lived assets, including property and equipment, for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be fully recoverable. For long-lived assets to be held and used, impairments are recognized when the carrying amount of a long-lived asset is not recoverable and exceeds its fair value. The carrying amount of a long-lived asset is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset. An impairment loss is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of a long-lived asset exceeds its fair value.

Long-lived assets to be disposed of by abandonment or in an exchange for a similar productive long-lived asset are classified as held-for-use until they are disposed. Long-lived assets to be sold are classified as held-for-sale and are no longer depreciated. Certain criteria have to be met in order for the long-lived asset to be classified as held-for-sale, including that a sale is probable and expected to occur within one year. Long-lived assets classified as held-for-sale are recorded at the lower of their carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell.

We lease office space and certain equipment under various long-term lease agreements. We determine if an arrangement is a lease at inception. Operating lease ROU assets and operating lease liabilities are recognized based on the present value of the future minimum lease payments over the lease term at the commencement date. Our leases do not provide an implicit rate; therefore, we use our incremental borrowing rate at the commencement date in determining the present value of future payments. The ROU asset is calculated using the lease liability carrying amount, plus or minus prepaid/accrued lease payments, minus the unamortized balance of lease incentives received, plus unamortized initial direct costs. Lease terms used to calculate our lease obligation include options when we are reasonably certain that we will exercise such options. Our lease agreements may contain both lease and non-lease components, which are accounted for separately. Lease expense for minimum lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

Separate Account Assets and Liabilities

Separate accounts represent segregated funds that are maintained to meet specific investment objectives of policyholders who direct the investments and bear the investment risk, except to the extent of minimum guarantees made by the Company with respect to certain accounts. The assets of each account are legally segregated and are not subject to claims that arise out of any other business of the Company.

We report separate account assets as a summary total on the Consolidated Balance Sheets based on the fair value of the underlying investments. The underlying investments consist primarily of mutual funds, fixed maturity AFS securities, short-term investments and cash. Investment income and net realized and unrealized gains (losses) of the separate accounts generally accrue directly to the
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policyholders; therefore, they are not reflected on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss), and the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows do not reflect investment activity of the separate accounts. Asset-based fees and contract administration charges (collectively referred to as “policyholder assessments”) are assessed against the accounts and included within fee income on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). An amount equivalent to the separate account assets is recorded as separate account liabilities, representing the account balance obligated to be returned to the policyholder.

Policyholder Account Balances

Policyholder account balances include the contract value that has accrued to the benefit of the policyholder as of the balance sheet date. The liability for policyholder account balances includes UL and VUL and investment-type annuity products where account balances are equal to deposits plus interest credited less withdrawals, surrender charges, policyholder assessments, as well as amounts representing the fair value of embedded derivative instruments associated with our IUL and indexed annuity products. During the third quarter of each year, we conduct our comprehensive review of the assumptions and projection models used in estimating these embedded derivatives and update assumptions as needed. We may also update these assumptions in other quarters as we become aware of information that is indicative of the need for such an update.

Future Contract Benefits

Future contract benefits represent liability reserves, including liability for future policy benefits (“LFPB”), liability for future claims reserves and additional liability for other insurance benefits that we have established and carry based on estimates of how much we will need to pay for future benefits and claims.

The LFPB associated with limited payment life-contingent annuity contracts and non-participating traditional life insurance contracts is measured using a net premium ratio approach. This approach accrues expected benefits and claims in proportion to the premium revenue recognized. For life-contingent payout annuity contracts with limited premium payments, as premium collection is not the completion of the earnings process, gross premiums in excess of net premiums are deferred. This excess of gross premiums received over the related net premiums is referred to as the deferred profit liability (“DPL”). The DPL is included in the LFPB, and profits are recognized over the life of the contracts.

In measuring our LFPB, we establish cohorts, which are groupings of long-duration contracts. Factors that we consider in determining cohorts include, but are not limited to, our contract classification and issue year requirements, product risk characteristics, assumptions and modeling level used in the valuation systems. The net premium ratio is capped at 100% at the individual cohort level. Expected benefits and claims in excess of premium revenue recognized are expensed immediately.

We use actuarial assumptions to best estimate future premium and benefit cash flows (“cash flow assumptions”) as well as the actual historical cash flows received and paid to derive a net premium ratio in measuring the LFPB. These actuarial assumptions include mortality rates, morbidity, policyholder behavior (e.g., persistency) and withdrawals based principally on generally accepted actuarial methods and assumptions. During the third quarter of each year, we conduct our comprehensive review of the cash flow assumptions and projection models used in estimating these liabilities and update these assumptions (excluding the claims settlement expense assumption that is locked in at inception) in the calculation of the net premium ratio. We may also update these assumptions in other quarters as we become aware of information that is indicative of such update. On a quarterly basis, we retrospectively update the net premium ratio for actual experience. The remeasurement of LFPB for both assumption updates and actual experience are reported within policyholder liability remeasurement gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). For all contract cohorts issued after January 1, 2021, interest is accrued on LFPB at the single-A interest rate on the contract cohort inception date. For contract cohorts issued prior to January 1, 2021, interest remains accruing at the original discount rate in effect on the contract cohort inception date due to the modified retrospective transition method. We also remeasure the LFPB using the single-A interest rate as of the end of each reporting period, which is reported within policyholder liability discount rate remeasurement gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

We evaluate the liability for future claims on our long-term life and disability group products. Given the term and renewal features of our product and funding nature of the associated premiums, we have determined that the liability value is generally zero for policies that are not on claim. Therefore, the liability for future claims represents future payments on claims for which a disability event has occurred as of the valuation date. In measuring the liability for future claims, we establish cohorts similar to the process described above and use actuarial assumptions primarily based on claim termination rates, offsets for other insurance including social security and long-term disability incidence and severity assumptions. Cash flow assumptions are subject to the comprehensive review process discussed above. On a quarterly basis, the liability for future claims is updated for actual claims experience. The remeasurement of the liability for future claims for both assumption updates and actual experience are reported within policyholder liability remeasurement gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). We remeasure the liability for future claims using a single-A interest rate as of the end of each reporting period, which is reported within policyholder liability discount rate remeasurement gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

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We use the single-A interest rate curve to discount cash flows used to calculate the LFPB and the liability for future claims. This curve is developed using the upper-medium grade (low credit risk) fixed-income instrument yields that are intended to reflect the duration characteristics of the applicable insurance liabilities.

We issue UL contracts with separate accounts that may include various types of guaranteed benefits that are not accounted for as MRBs or embedded derivatives. These guaranteed benefits require an additional liability that is calculated by estimating the present value of total expected benefit payments over the life of the contract from inception divided by the present value of total expected assessments over the life of the contract (“benefit ratio”) multiplied by the cumulative assessments recorded from the contract inception through the balance sheet date less the cumulative payments plus interest on the liability. Cash flow assumptions incorporated in a benefit ratio in measuring these additional liabilities for other insurance benefits include mortality rates, morbidity, policyholder behavior (e.g., persistency) and withdrawals based principally on generally accepted actuarial methods and assumptions. During the third quarter of each year, we conduct our comprehensive review of the cash flow assumptions and projection models used in estimating these liabilities and update these assumptions in the calculation of the benefit ratio. We may also update these assumptions in other quarters as we become aware of information that is indicative of such update. On a quarterly basis, we retrospectively update the benefit ratio for actual experience. The remeasurement of additional liability for both assumptions and actual experience are reported within policyholder liability remeasurement gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). As future cash flow assumption and experience updates result in changes in expected benefit payments or assessments, the benefit ratio is recalculated using the updated expected benefit payments and assessments over the life of the contract since inception. The revised benefit ratio is then applied to the liability calculation described above.

Premium deficiency testing is performed for interest-sensitive life products periodically using best estimate assumptions as of the testing date to test the adequacy and appropriateness of the established net reserve (i.e., GAAP reserves net of any DSI or VOBA assets). The premium deficiency test is also performed using a discount rate based on the average crediting rate. A premium deficiency exists when
the net reserve plus the present value of expected future gross premiums are determined to be insufficient to cover expected future benefits and non-level expenses.

The business written or assumed by us includes participating life insurance contracts, under which the policyholder is entitled to share in the earnings of such contracts via receipt of dividends. The dividend scale for participating policies is reviewed annually and may be adjusted to reflect recent experience and future expectations. As of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, participating policies comprised less than 1% of the face amount of business in force, and dividend expenses were $41 million, $49 million and $48 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

MRBs

MRBs are contracts or contract features that provide protection to the policyholder from other-than-nominal capital market risk and expose us to other-than-nominal capital market risk upon the occurrence of a specific event or circumstance, such as death, annuitization or periodic withdrawal. MRBs do not include the death benefit component of a life insurance contract (i.e., the difference between the account balance and the death benefit amount). All long-duration insurance contracts and certain investment contracts are subject to MRB evaluation. An MRB can be in either an asset or a liability position. Our MRB assets and MRB liabilities are reported at fair value separately on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

We issue variable and fixed annuity contracts that may include various types of guaranteed living benefit (“GLB”) and guaranteed death benefit (“GDB”) riders that we have classified as MRBs. For contracts that contain multiple features that qualify as MRBs, the MRBs are valued on a combined basis using an integrated model. We have entered into reinsurance agreements to cede certain GLB and GDB riders where the reinsurance agreements themselves are accounted for as MRBs or contain MRBs. We therefore record ceded MRB assets and ceded MRB liabilities associated with these reinsurance agreements. Ceded MRB liabilities are included in other assets and ceded MRB assets are included in other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

MRBs are valued based on a stochastic projection of risk-neutral scenarios that incorporate a spread reflecting our non-performance risk. Ceded MRBs are valued based on a stochastic projection of risk-neutral scenarios that incorporate a spread reflecting our counterparties’ non-performance risk. The scenario assumptions, at each valuation date, are those we view to be appropriate for a hypothetical market participant and include assumptions for capital markets, policyholder behavior (e.g., policy lapse, rider utilization, etc.) mortality, risk margin and administrative expenses. These assumptions are based on a combination of historical data and actuarial judgments. During the third quarter of each year, we conduct our comprehensive review of the actuarial assumptions and projection models used in estimating these MRBs and update these assumptions on a prospective basis as needed. We may also update these assumptions in other quarters as we become aware of information that is indicative of the need for such an update. The assumptions for our own non-performance risk and our counterparties’ non-performance risk for MRBs and ceded MRBs, respectively, are determined at each valuation date and reflect our and our counterparties’ risks of not fulfilling the obligations of the underlying liability. The spread for the non-performance risk is added to the discount rates used in determining the fair value from the net cash flows. For information on fair value inputs, see Note 15.

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Short-Term and Long-Term Debt

Short-term debt has contractual or expected maturities of one year or less. Long-term debt has contractual or expected maturities greater than one year.

Payables for Collateral on Investments

When we enter into collateralized financing transactions on our investments, a liability is recorded equal to the cash or non-cash collateral received. This liability is included within payables for collateral on investments on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Income and expenses associated with these transactions are recorded as investment income and investment expenses within net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). Changes in payables for collateral on investments are reflected within cash flows from investing activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Contingencies and Commitments

A loss contingency is an existing condition, situation or set of circumstances involving uncertainty as to possible loss that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events occur or fail to occur. Contingencies arising from environmental remediation costs, regulatory judgments, claims, assessments, guarantees, litigation, recourse reserves, fines, penalties and other sources are recorded when deemed probable and reasonably estimable, based on our best estimate.

Fee Income

Fee income for investment and interest-sensitive life insurance contracts consists of asset-based fees, percent of premium charges, contract administration charges and surrender charges that are assessed against policyholder account balances. Investment products consist primarily of individual and group variable and fixed annuities. Interest-sensitive life insurance products include UL, VUL, linked-benefit UL and VUL and other interest-sensitive life insurance policies. These products include life insurance sold to individuals, corporate-owned life insurance and bank-owned life insurance.

The timing of revenue recognition as it relates to fees assessed on investment contracts is determined based on the nature of such fees. Asset-based fees and contract administration charges are assessed on a daily or monthly basis and recognized as revenue as performance obligations are met, over the period underlying customer assets are owned or advisory services are provided. Percent of premium charges are assessed at the time of premium payment and recognized as revenue when assessed and earned. Certain amounts assessed that represent compensation for services to be provided in future periods are reported as unearned revenue and recognized in income over the periods benefited. Surrender charges are recognized upon surrender of a contract by the policyholder in accordance with contractual terms. For investment and interest-sensitive life insurance contracts, the amounts collected from policyholders are considered deposits and are not included in revenue.

Wholesaling-related 12b-1 fees received from separate account fund sponsors as compensation for servicing the underlying mutual funds are recorded as revenues based on a contractual percentage of the market value of mutual fund assets over the period shares are owned by customers. Net investment advisory fees related to asset management of certain separate account funds are recorded as revenues based on a contractual percentage of the customer’s managed assets over the period advisory services are provided. Fee income related to 12b-1 fees and net investment advisory fees, reported primarily within our Annuities segment, was $715 million, $743 million and $848 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Insurance Premiums

Insurance premiums consist primarily of group insurance products, payout annuities with life contingencies and traditional life insurance. These insurance premiums are recognized as revenue when due.

Net Investment Income

We earn investment income on the underlying general account investments supporting our fixed products less related expenses. Dividends and interest income, recorded in net investment income, are recognized when earned. Amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts on investments in debt securities are reflected in net investment income over the contractual terms of the investments in a manner that produces a constant effective yield.

For CLOs and MBS, included in the trading and fixed maturity AFS securities portfolios, we recognize income using a constant effective yield based on anticipated prepayments and the estimated economic life of the securities. When actual prepayments differ significantly from originally anticipated prepayments, the retrospective effective yield is recalculated to reflect actual payments to date and a catch up adjustment is recorded in the current period. In addition, the new effective yield, which reflects anticipated future payments, is used
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prospectively. Any adjustments resulting from changes in effective yield are reflected in net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

Realized Gain (Loss)

Realized gain (loss) includes realized gains and losses from the sale of investments, write-downs for impairments of investments and changes in the allowance for credit losses for financial assets, changes in fair value of mortgage loans on real estate accounted for under the fair value option, changes in fair value of equity securities, certain derivative and embedded derivative gains and losses, gains and losses on the sale of subsidiaries and businesses and net gains and losses on reinsurance-related embedded derivatives and trading securities. Realized gains and losses on the sale of investments are determined using the specific identification method. Realized gain (loss) is reported net of allocations of investment gains and losses to certain policyholders, certain funds withheld on reinsurance arrangements and certain modified coinsurance arrangements for which we have a contractual obligation to cede realized gains and losses to the reinsurer.

MRB Gain (Loss)

MRB gain (loss) includes the change in fair value of MRB and ceded MRB assets and liabilities. Changes in the fair value of MRB assets and liabilities are recognized in net income (loss), except for the portion attributable to the change in non-performance risk that is recognized in OCI. Changes in the fair value of ceded MRB assets and liabilities, including the changes in our counterparties’ non-performance risks, are recognized in net income (loss).

Other Revenues

Other revenues consist primarily of fees attributable to broker-dealer services recorded as performance obligations are met, either at the time of sale or over time based on a contractual percentage of customer account balances, and proceeds from reinsurance recaptures. The broker-dealer services primarily relate to our retail sales network and consist of commission revenue for the sale of non-affiliated securities recorded on a trade date basis and advisory fee income. Advisory fee income is asset-based revenues recorded as earned based on a contractual percentage of customer account balances. Other revenues attributable to broker-dealer services and advisory fee income, reported primarily within our Annuities segment, were $461 million, $468 million and $497 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Other revenues earned by our Group Protection segment consist of fees from administrative services performed, which are recognized as performance obligations are met over the terms of the underlying agreements, and were $210 million, $203 million and $180 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Interest Credited

We credit interest to our policyholder account balances based on the contractual terms supporting our products.

Benefits

Benefits for UL and other interest-sensitive life insurance products include benefit claims incurred during the period in excess of contract account balances. Benefits also include the change in reserves for annuity products with guaranteed death and living benefits, certain annuities with life contingencies and life insurance products with secondary guarantee benefits. For traditional life, group life and disability income products, benefits are recognized when incurred in a manner consistent with the related premium recognition policies.

Policyholder Liability Remeasurement Gain (Loss)

Policyholder liability remeasurement gain (loss) recognized in net income (loss) includes remeasurement gains and losses resulting from updates in cash flow assumptions and actual variance from expected experience used in the net premium ratio or benefit ratio calculation for future policy benefits associated with limited payment life-contingent annuity products and traditional life insurance, liabilities for future claims associated with our group products, and additional liabilities for other insurance benefits on certain guaranteed benefits associated with our UL products.

Policyholder liability remeasurement gain (loss) recognized in OCI includes any changes resulting from the discount rate remeasurement of future policy benefits associated with limited payment life-contingent annuity products and traditional life insurance and liabilities for future claims associated with our group products as of each reporting period.

Spark Program Expense

Spark program expense consists primarily of costs related to our Spark Initiative.


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Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans

Pursuant to the accounting rules for our obligations to employees and agents under our various pension and other postretirement benefit plans, we are required to make a number of assumptions to estimate related liabilities and expenses. The mortality assumption is based on actual and anticipated plan experience, determined using acceptable actuarial methods. We use assumptions for the weighted-average discount rate and expected return on plan assets to estimate pension expense. The discount rate assumptions are determined using an analysis of current market information and the projected benefit flows associated with these plans. The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is based on historical and projected future rates of return on the funds invested in the plan. The calculation of our accumulated postretirement benefit obligation also uses an assumption of weighted-average annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered benefits, which reflects a health care cost trend rate.

Stock-Based Compensation

In general, we expense the fair value of stock awards included in our incentive compensation plans. As of the date LNC’s Board of Directors approves stock awards, the fair value of stock options is determined using a Black-Scholes options valuation methodology, and the fair value of other stock awards is based upon the market value of the stock. The fair value of the awards is expensed over the performance or service period, which generally corresponds to the vesting period, and is recognized as an increase to common stock in stockholder’s equity. We apply an estimated forfeiture rate to our accrual of compensation cost. We classify certain stock awards as liabilities. For these awards, the settlement value is classified as a liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the liability is marked-to-market through net income at the end of each reporting period. Stock-based compensation expense is reflected in commissions and other expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

Interest and Debt Expense

Interest expense on our short-term and long-term debt is recognized as due and any associated premiums, discounts and debt issuance costs are amortized (accreted) over the term of the related borrowing utilizing the effective interest method. In addition, gains or losses related to certain derivative instruments associated with debt are recognized in interest and debt expense during the period of the change.

Income Taxes

LNC files a U.S. consolidated income tax return that includes us and LNC’s other eligible subsidiaries. Ineligible subsidiaries file separate individual corporate tax returns. Deferred income taxes are recognized, based on enacted rates, when assets and liabilities have different values for financial statement and tax reporting purposes. A valuation allowance is recorded to the extent required. Judgment and the use of estimates are required in determining whether a valuation allowance is necessary and, if so, the amount of such valuation allowance. In evaluating the need for a valuation allowance, we consider many factors, including: the nature and character of the deferred tax assets and liabilities; taxable income in prior carryback years; future reversals of temporary differences; the length of time carryovers can be utilized; and any tax planning strategies we would employ to avoid a tax benefit from expiring unused.

We use the individual security approach for releasing income tax effects from AOCI.










25

2.  New Accounting Standards

The following table provides a description of our adoption of new ASUs issued by the FASB and the impact of the adoption on the consolidated financial statements. ASUs not listed below were assessed and determined to be either not applicable or insignificant in presentation or amount.

StandardDescriptionEffective DateEffect on Financial Statements or Other Significant Matters
ASU 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848) and related amendmentsThe amendments in this update provide optional guidance for a limited period of time to ease the potential burden in accounting for (or recognizing the effects of) reference rate reform on financial reporting. The amendments provide optional expedients and exceptions for applying GAAP to contracts, hedging relationships and other transactions impacted by reference rate reform. If certain criteria are met, an entity will not be required to remeasure or reassess contracts impacted by reference rate reform. Additionally, changes to the critical terms of a hedging relationship affected by reference rate reform will not require entities to de-designate the relationship if certain requirements are met. The expedients and exceptions provided by the amendments do not apply to contract modifications made and hedging relationships entered into or evaluated after December 31, 2024, with certain exceptions. The amendments are effective for contract modifications made between March 12, 2020, and December 31, 2024.March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2024This standard may be elected and applied prospectively. We utilized certain practical expedients under this guidance for contract modifications and to maintain hedge accounting for certain derivatives from the effective date through December 31, 2023. This ASU has not had a material impact to our consolidated financial condition and results of operations to date, and we do not expect future material impacts through the close of the ASU effective date on December 31, 2024.
ASU 2018-12, Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Long-Duration Contracts and related amendments
See Note 3 for information about ASU 2018-12.
January 1, 2023
We adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2023, with a transition date of January 1, 2021, using a modified retrospective approach, except for MRBs for which we applied a full retrospective transition approach. See Note 3 for transition disclosures related to the adoption of this ASU.
26


3. Adoption of ASU 2018-12

On January 1, 2023, we adopted ASU 2018-12 with a transition date of January 1, 2021. ASU 2018-12 updated accounting and reporting requirements for long-duration contracts and certain investment contracts issued by insurance entities. We adopted ASU 2018-12 under the modified retrospective approach, except for MRBs, which applied the full retrospective approach. Our consolidated financial statements are presented under the new guidance for reporting periods beginning January 1, 2021.

Under ASU 2018-12, we include actual historical cash flows along with best estimate future cash flows to derive the net premium ratio when calculating the LFPB associated with our traditional and limited-payment long-duration contracts. We review and update, if necessary, assumptions used to measure future cash flows included in the net premium ratio at least annually. Historical cash flows included in the net premium ratio are updated for actual experience quarterly and as assumptions are updated. Changes in the measurement of our LFPB result from updates to cash flow assumptions and actual experience, which impacts are reported within policyholder remeasurement gain (loss) on our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). We use an upper-medium grade (low credit risk) fixed-income instrument yield (single-A) discount rate when calculating the LFPB. This discount rate is updated quarterly at each reporting date with the impact recognized in OCI. ASU 2018-12 also eliminated loss recognition testing, premium deficiency testing and the provision for adverse deviation for LFPB.

ASU 2018-12 introduced the category of MRBs, which are contracts or contract features that provide protection to the policyholder from other-than-nominal capital market risk and expose us to other-than-nominal capital market risk upon the occurrence of a specific event or circumstance, such as death, annuitization or periodic withdrawal. MRBs are required to be measured at fair value, with periodic changes in fair value reported within MRB gain (loss) on our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss), except for periodic changes to instrument-specific credit risk related to direct policies, which are recognized in OCI. Changes in the fair value of ceded MRB assets and liabilities are also reported within MRB gain (loss) on our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

ASU 2018-12 simplified the amortization model for DAC and DAC-like intangible balances, including VOBA, DSI and DFEL. Historically these balances were amortized in proportion to premium or over expected gross profits. They are now amortized on a constant-level basis over the expected term of the contract. Loss recognition testing and impairment testing are no longer applicable for DAC.

ASU 2018-12 requires disaggregated rollforwards of the beginning of year to the end of the reporting period balances. We also disclose information about inputs, judgments, assumptions, methods, changes during the period and the effect of these changes on the measurement of applicable balances. In determining the appropriate level of aggregation, we considered our reportable segments, nature and risk characteristics of our products and level of aggregation we used in disclosures presented outside the financial statements.

The following table presents the cumulative effect adjustments (in millions), after-tax and shown as increase (decrease), to the components of stockholder’s equity due to the adoption of ASU 2018-12 as of January 1, 2021, by primary accounting topic:

Total Stockholder’s Equity
Retained EarningsAOCI
Shadow impacts:
DAC, VOBA, DSI and DFEL$– $2,271 $2,271 
Additional liabilities for other
insurance benefits– 1,197 1,197 
LFPB and other (1)
(121)(1,520)(1,641)
MRBs (2)
(1,699)2,874 1,175 
Total$(1,820)$4,822 $3,002 

(1) Includes impacts to reserves and ceded reserves reported within future contract benefits and reinsurance recoverables, respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, excluding shadow impacts on additional liabilities for other insurance benefits.
(2) Includes impacts related to MRB assets and MRB liabilities reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and ceded MRBs reported within other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

27


The following table summarizes the effect of the adoption of ASU 2018-12 as of January 1, 2021, (in millions) on the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Retained EarningsAOCITotal Stockholder’s Equity
DAC, VOBA and DSI$– $6,079 $6,079 
Reinsurance recoverables607 2,556 3,163 
Other assets (1)
5,795 – 5,795 
Future contract benefits(760)(2,966)(3,726)
MRBs, net(7,956)3,656 (4,300)
DFEL– (3,190)(3,190)
Other liabilities (2)
494 (1,313)(819)
Total$(1,820)$4,822 $3,002 

(1) Consists primarily of ceded MRB adjustments.
(2) Consists of state and federal tax adjustments.

The following table summarizes the changes in DAC, VOBA and DSI, pre-tax, (in millions) due to the adoption of ASU 2018-12 and reconciles this balance to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Balance
Pre-Adoption December 31, 2020
Impact from Removal of Shadow Balances
from AOCI
Balance
Post-Adoption January 1,
2021
DAC
Variable Annuities$3,675 $52 $3,727 
Fixed Annuities264 215 479 
Traditional Life1,041 – 1,041 
UL and Other297 5,031 5,328 
Group Protection187 – 187 
Retirement Plan Services126 112 238 
Total DAC5,590 5,410 11,000 
VOBA
Fixed Annuities– 23 23 
Traditional Life67 – 67 
UL and Other167 630 797 
Total VOBA234 653 887 
DSI (1)
Variable Annuities194 196 
Fixed Annuities17 13 30 
UL and Other35 – 35 
Retirement Plan Services13 14 
Total DSI259 16 275 
Total DAC, VOBA and DSI$6,083 $6,079 $12,162 

(1) Pre-adoption DSI balance was previously reported in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

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The following table summarizes the changes in DFEL, pre-tax, (in millions) due to the adoption of ASU 2018-12 and reconciles this balance to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Balance
Pre-Adoption December 31, 2020
Impact from Removal of Shadow Balances
from AOCI
Balance
Post-Adoption January 1,
2021
DFEL (1)
Variable Annuities$319 $$324 
UL and Other77 3,185 3,262 
Total DFEL$396 $3,190 $3,586 

(1) Pre-adoption DFEL balance was previously reported in other contract holder funds on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The following table summarizes the changes in future contract benefits, pre-tax, (in millions) due to the adoption of ASU 2018-12 and reconciles this balance to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Balance Pre-Adoption December 31, 2020 (1)
Impact from Removal of Shadow Balances
from AOCI
Single-A Discount
Rate Measurement
in AOCI
Cumulative
Effect to
Retained
Earnings
Balance
Post-Adoption
January 1,
2021
LFPB
Payout Annuities$2,313 $(105)$415 $44 $2,667 
Traditional Life3,062 – 852 (2)3,912 
Liability for Future Claims
Group Protection5,422 – 517 – 5,939 
Additional Liabilities for Other
Insurance Benefits
UL and Other13,687 (1,515)– 92 12,264 
Other Operations (2)
10,309 (80)2,882 626 13,737 
Other (3)
3,525 – – – 3,525 
Total future contract benefits$38,318 $(1,700)$4,666 $760 $42,044 

(1) Balance pre-adoption excludes features that meet the definition of an MRB upon transition, including features that were previously accounted for as an additional liability. Also, balance pre-adoption reflects certain reclassifications of non-life contingent account balances from future contract benefits to policyholder account balances within the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(2) Represents future contract benefits reported in Other Operations primarily attributable to the indemnity reinsurance agreements with Protective ($6.3 billion and $7.4 billion as of December 31, 2020, and January 1, 2021, respectively) and Swiss Re ($1.8 billion and $3.3 billion as of December 31, 2020, and January 1, 2021, respectively). Includes LFPB and additional liabilities balances.
(3) Represents other miscellaneous reserves outside the scope of ASU 2018-12.

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The following table summarizes the changes in reinsurance recoverables, pre-tax, (in millions) due to the adoption of ASU 2018-12 and reconciles this balance to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Balance Pre-Adoption December 31, 2020 (1)
Single-A
Discount
Rate
 Measurement
in AOCI
Cumulative
Effect to
Retained
Earnings
Balance
Post-Adoption
January 1,
2021
Reinsured LFPB
Payout Annuities$$– $– $
Traditional Life372 88 – 460 
Reinsured Liability for Future
Claims
Group Protection148 14 – 162 
Reinsured Additional Liabilities
for Other Insurance Benefits
UL and Other922 – (3)919 
Reinsured Other Operations (2)
14,757 2,454 610 17,821 
Reinsured Other (3)
1,346 – – 1,346 
Total reinsurance recoverables$17,550 $2,556 $607 $20,713 

(1) Balance pre-adoption excludes features that meet the definition of a ceded MRB upon transition, including features that were previously accounted for as reinsured additional liabilities.
(2) Represents reinsurance recoverables reported in Other Operations primarily attributable to the indemnity reinsurance agreements with Protective ($12.0 billion and $13.2 billion as of December 31, 2020, and January 1, 2021, respectively) and Swiss Re ($1.7 billion and $3.2 billion as of December 31, 2020, and January 1, 2021, respectively). Includes reinsured LFPB and reinsured additional liabilities balances.
(3) Represents other miscellaneous reinsurance recoverables outside the scope of ASU 2018-12.

The following table summarizes the changes in the net liability position of MRBs, pre-tax, (in millions) due to the adoption of ASU 2018-12 and reconciles this balance to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Balance Pre-Adoption December 31, 2020 (1)
Cumulative
Effect of
Credit Risk
to AOCI
Cumulative
Effect to
Retained
Earnings
Balance
Post-Adoption
January 1,
2021
MRBs, Net
Variable Annuities$831 $(3,592)$7,968 $5,207 
Fixed Annuities192 (52)(22)118 
Retirement Plan Services11 (12)10 
Total MRBs, net$1,034 $(3,656)$7,956 $5,334 

(1) Balance pre-adoption includes all features that meet the definition of an MRB upon transition, including features that were previously accounted for as additional liabilities or embedded derivatives.

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The following table summarizes the changes in the net asset position of ceded MRBs, pre-tax, (in millions) due to the adoption of ASU 2018-12, reported in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

Balance Pre-Adoption December 31, 2020 (1)
Cumulative
Effect to
Retained
Earnings
Balance
Post-Adoption
January 1,
2021
Ceded MRBs, Net
Variable Annuities$828 $5,700 $6,528 
Retirement Plan Services10 11 
Total ceded MRBs, net$829 $5,710 $6,539 

(1) Balance pre-adoption includes all features that meet the definition of a ceded MRB upon transition, including features that were previously accounted for as reinsured additional liabilities or embedded derivatives.

The following summarizes the effect of the adoption of ASU 2018-12 (in millions) on certain financial statement line items within the previously reported Consolidated Balance Sheet:

As of December 31, 2022
As Previously Reported (1)
Adoption
of New
Accounting
Standard
As Adjusted
Deferred acquisition costs, value of business
acquired and deferred sales inducements (2)
$13,873 $(1,610)$12,263 
Reinsurance recoverables, net of allowance for
credit losses (2)
24,450 (2,646)21,804 
Market risk benefit assets– 2,807 2,807 
Other assets (2)
8,831 (1,154)7,677 
Total assets (2)
338,185 (2,603)335,582 
Future contract benefits (2)
41,203 (2,901)38,302 
Market risk benefit liabilities– 2,078 2,078 
Deferred front-end loads (2)
5,765 (650)5,115 
Other liabilities (2)
7,719 (1,468)6,251 
Total liabilities (2)
329,919 (2,941)326,978 
Retained earnings2,436 (1,022)1,414 
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)(7,073)1,360 (5,713)
Total stockholder’s equity$8,266 $338 $8,604 

(1) The amounts as previously reported were reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto (“2022 Form 10-K”).
(2) Certain as previously reported amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

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The following summarizes the effect of the adoption of ASU 2018-12 (in millions) on certain financial statement line items within the previously reported Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):

For the Year Ended December 31, 2022For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
As Previously Reported (1)
Adoption
of New
Accounting
Standard
As Adjusted
As Previously Reported (1)
Adoption of New Accounting StandardAs Adjusted
Fee income$5,783 $(417)$5,366 $6,630 $(864)$5,766 
Realized gain (loss)214 204 418 711 148 859 
Total revenues17,770 (213)17,557 19,228 (716)18,512 
Benefits10,801 (2,598)8,203 8,039 (12)8,027 
Interest credited2,849 11 2,860 2,911 2,912 
Market risk benefit (gain) loss– 296 296 – (1,554)(1,554)
Policyholder liability remeasurement (gain)
  loss
– 2,445 2,445 – (119)(119)
Commissions and other expenses4,799 128 4,927 5,548 (537)5,011 
Total expenses19,387 282 19,669 16,699 (2,221)14,478 
Income (loss) before taxes(1,617)(495)(2,112)2,529 1,505 4,034 
Federal income tax expense (benefit)(332)(105)(437)420 317 737 
Net income (loss)(1,285)(390)(1,675)2,109 1,188 3,297 
Unrealized investment gain (loss)(13,613)(4,026)(17,639)(2,480)(753)(3,233)
Market risk benefit non-performance risk
gain (loss)– (211)(211)– (923)(923)
Policyholder liability discount rate
remeasurement gain (loss)– 1,891 1,891 – 560 560 
Total other comprehensive income (loss),
net of tax(13,617)(2,346)(15,963)(2,477)(1,116)(3,593)
Comprehensive income (loss)(14,902)(2,736)(17,638)(368)72 (296)

(1) The amounts as previously reported were reported in our 2022 Form 10-K.

32


The following summarizes the effect of the adoption of ASU 2018-12 (in millions) on certain financial statement line items within the previously reported Consolidated Statements of Stockholder’s Equity:

As of December 31, 2022As of December 31, 2021
As Previously Reported (1)
Adoption
of New
Accounting
Standard
As
Adjusted
As Previously Reported (1)
Adoption
of New Accounting Standard
As
Adjusted
Retained earnings balance as of
beginning-of-year$4,366 $(632)$3,734 $4,167 $– $4,167 
Cumulative effect from adoption of new
accounting standards– – – – (1,820)(1,820)
Net income (loss)(1,285)(390)(1,675)2,109 1,188 3,297 
Retained earnings balance as of end-of-year2,436 (1,022)1,414 4,366 (632)3,734 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
(loss) balance as of beginning-of-year6,544 3,706 10,250 9,021 – 9,021 
Cumulative effect from adoption of new
accounting standards– – – – 4,822 4,822 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of
tax(13,617)(2,346)(15,963)(2,477)(1,116)(3,593)
Accumulated other comprehensive income
(loss) balance as of end-of-year(7,073)1,360 (5,713)6,544 3,706 10,250 
Total stockholder’s equity as of end-of-year$8,266 $338 $8,604 $22,860 $3,074 $25,934 

(1) The amounts as previously reported were reported in our 2022 Form 10-K

The following summarizes the effect of the adoption of ASU 2018-12 (in millions) on certain financial statement line items within the previously reported Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows:

For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
As Previously Reported (1)
Adoption
of New
Accounting
Standard
As
Adjusted
Net income (loss)$(1,285)$(390)$(1,675)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in)
operating activities:
Realized (gain) loss (214)(204)(418)
Market risk benefit (gain) loss– 296 296 
Change in:
Deferred acquisition costs, value of business acquired, deferred sales
 inducements and deferred front-end loads45 450 495 
Insurance liabilities and reinsurance-related balances (2)
727 (75)652 
Accrued expenses(98)(3)(101)
Federal income tax accruals(271)(105)(376)
Other (2)
375 31 406 

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For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
As Previously Reported (1)
Adoption
of New
Accounting
Standard
As
Adjusted
Net income (loss)$2,109 $1,188 $3,297 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in)
operating activities:
Realized (gain) loss (711)(148)(859)
Market risk benefit (gain) loss– (1,554)(1,554)
Change in:
Deferred acquisition costs, value of business acquired, deferred sales
 inducements and deferred front-end loads289 207 496 
Insurance liabilities and reinsurance-related balances (2)
(862)(31)(893)
Accrued expenses370 377 
Federal income tax accruals391 317 708 
Other (2)
(365)14 (351)

(1) The amounts as previously reported were reported in our 2022 Form 10-K.
(2) Certain as previously reported amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current presentation.

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4. Investments

Fixed Maturity AFS Securities

The amortized cost, gross unrealized gains and losses, allowance for credit losses and fair value of fixed maturity AFS securities (in millions) were as follows:

As of December 31, 2023
Amortized CostGross UnrealizedAllowance for Credit LossesFair Value
GainsLosses
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$68,811 $820 $5,757 $$63,866 
U.S. government bonds414 28 – 393 
State and municipal bonds2,675 97 230 – 2,542 
Foreign government bonds309 15 46 – 278 
RMBS1,719 27 138 1,602 
CMBS1,520 181 – 1,344 
ABS12,556 62 571 12,043 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities227 21 15 232 
Total fixed maturity AFS securities$88,231 $1,054 $6,966 $19 $82,300 

As of December 31, 2022
Amortized CostGross UnrealizedAllowance for Credit LossesFair Value
GainsLosses
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$88,950 $763 $10,538 $$79,166 
U.S. government bonds377 31 – 351 
State and municipal bonds5,198 170 483 – 4,885 
Foreign government bonds339 17 45 – 311 
RMBS2,025 21 203 1,836 
CMBS1,908 244 – 1,667 
ABS11,791 37 925 10,899 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities356 25 30 350 
Total fixed maturity AFS securities$110,944 $1,041 $12,499 $21 $99,465 

The amortized cost and fair value of fixed maturity AFS securities by contractual maturities (in millions) as of December 31, 2023, were as follows:

Amortized
 Cost
Fair Value
Due in one year or less$4,389 $4,354 
Due after one year through five years17,444 16,858 
Due after five years through ten years15,405 14,403 
Due after ten years35,198 31,696 
Subtotal72,436 67,311 
Structured securities (RMBS, CMBS, ABS)15,795 14,989 
Total fixed maturity AFS securities$88,231 $82,300 

Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers may have the right to call or pre-pay obligations.


35


The fair value and gross unrealized losses of fixed maturity AFS securities (dollars in millions) for which an allowance for credit losses has not been recorded, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position, were as follows:

As of December 31, 2023
Less Than or Equal
 to Twelve Months
Greater Than Twelve MonthsTotal
Fair ValueGross Unrealized
 Losses
Fair ValueGross Unrealized
 Losses
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Losses (1)
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$13,439 $1,744 $33,285 $4,013 $46,724 $5,757 
U.S. government bonds65 194 22 259 28 
State and municipal bonds371 72 814 158 1,185 230 
Foreign government bonds108 31 57 15 165 46 
RMBS355 20 840 118 1,195 138 
CMBS583 56 586 125 1,169 181 
ABS1,898 68 7,212 503 9,110 571 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities32 94 13 126 15 
Total fixed maturity AFS securities$16,851 $1,999 $43,082 $4,967 $59,933 $6,966 
Total number of fixed maturity AFS securities in an unrealized loss position7,167 

As of December 31, 2022
Less Than or Equal
to Twelve Months
Greater Than Twelve MonthsTotal
Fair ValueGross Unrealized
 Losses
Fair ValueGross Unrealized
 Losses
Fair Value
Gross Unrealized Losses (1)
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$57,656 $8,684 $6,867 $1,854 $64,523 $10,538 
U.S. government bonds236 25 27 263 31 
State and municipal bonds1,850 414 227 69 2,077 483 
Foreign government bonds122 18 58 27 180 45 
RMBS1,337 160 191 43 1,528 203 
CMBS1,224 156 312 88 1,536 244 
ABS6,712 551 3,325 374 10,037 925 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities61 98 25 159 30 
Total fixed maturity AFS securities$69,198 $10,013 $11,105 $2,486 $80,303 $12,499 
Total number of fixed maturity AFS securities in an unrealized loss position8,106 

(1) As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we recognized $7 million and $6 million of gross unrealized losses, respectively, in OCI for fixed maturity AFS securities for which an allowance for credit losses has been recorded.


36


The fair value, gross unrealized losses (in millions) and number of fixed maturity AFS securities where the fair value had declined and remained below amortized cost by greater than 20% were as follows:

As of December 31, 2023
Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
 Losses
Number of Securities (1)
Less than six months$2,480 $916 529 
Six months or greater, but less than nine months321 90 79 
Nine months or greater, but less than twelve months321 106 87 
Twelve months or greater3,485 1,336 704 
Total$6,607 $2,448 1,399 

As of December 31, 2022
Fair ValueGross
Unrealized
Losses
Number of Securities (1)
Less than six months$10,895 $3,514 1,489 
Six months or greater, but less than nine months4,256 2,150 640 
Nine months or greater, but less than twelve months362 243 73 
Twelve months or greater– 15 
Total$15,515 $5,907 $2,217 

(1) We may reflect a security in more than one aging category based on various purchase dates.

Our gross unrealized losses on fixed maturity AFS securities decreased by $5.5 billion for the year ended December 31, 2023, which was
driven by declining interest rates during the fourth quarter of 2023 and the transfer of assets as part of the Fortitude Re reinsurance
transaction. As discussed further below, we believe the unrealized loss position as of December 31, 2023, did not require an impairment recognized in earnings as (i) we did not intend to sell these fixed maturity AFS securities; (ii) it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell the fixed maturity AFS securities before recovery of their amortized cost basis; and (iii) the difference in the fair value compared to the amortized cost was due to factors other than credit loss. Based upon this evaluation as of December 31, 2023, management believes we have the ability to generate adequate amounts of cash from our normal operations (e.g., insurance premiums, fee income and investment income) to meet cash requirements with a prudent margin of safety without requiring the sale of our impaired securities.

As of December 31, 2023, the unrealized losses associated with our corporate bond, U.S. government bond, state and municipal bond and foreign government bond securities were attributable primarily to rising interest rates and widening credit spreads since purchase. We performed a detailed analysis of the financial performance of the underlying issuers and determined that we expected to recover the entire amortized cost of each impaired security.
 
Credit ratings express opinions about the credit quality of a security. Securities rated investment grade (those rated BBB- or higher by S&P Global Ratings (“S&P”) or Baa3 or higher by Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”)) are generally considered by the rating agencies and market participants to be low credit risk. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, 96% of the fair value of our corporate bond portfolio was rated investment grade. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the portion of our corporate bond portfolio rated below investment grade had an amortized cost of $2.7 billion and $3.5 billion, respectively, and a fair value of $2.6 billion and $3.3 billion, respectively. Based upon the analysis discussed above, we believe that as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we would have recovered the amortized cost of each corporate bond.

As of December 31, 2023, the unrealized losses associated with our MBS and ABS were attributable primarily to rising interest rates and widening credit spreads since purchase. We assessed for credit impairment using a cash flow model that incorporates key assumptions including default rates, severities and prepayment rates. We estimated losses for a security by forecasting the underlying loans in each transaction. The forecasted loan performance was used to project cash flows to the various tranches in the structure, as applicable. Our forecasted cash flows also considered, as applicable, independent industry analyst reports and forecasts and other independent market data. Based upon our assessment of the expected credit losses of the security given the performance of the underlying collateral compared to our subordination or other credit enhancement, we expected to recover the entire amortized cost of each impaired security.


37


As of December 31, 2023, the unrealized losses associated with our hybrid and redeemable preferred securities were attributable primarily to wider credit spreads caused by illiquidity in the market and subordination within the capital structure, as well as credit risk of underlying issuers. For our hybrid and redeemable preferred securities, we evaluated the financial performance of the underlying issuers based upon credit performance and investment ratings and determined that we expected to recover the entire amortized cost of each impaired security.

Credit Loss Impairment on Fixed Maturity AFS Securities

We regularly review our fixed maturity AFS securities for declines in fair value that we determine to be impairment-related, including those attributable to credit risk factors that may require an allowance for credit losses. See Note 1 for a discussion regarding our accounting policy relating to the allowance for credit losses on our fixed maturity AFS securities.

Changes in the allowance for credit losses on fixed maturity AFS securities (in millions), aggregated by investment category, were as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
Corporate BondsRMBSOtherTotal
Balance as of beginning-of-year$$$$21 
Additions from purchases of PCD debt securities (1)
– – – – 
Additions for securities for which credit losses were not
previously recognized24 – 25 
Additions (reductions) for securities for which credit losses
 were previously recognized(2)(2)– (4)
Reductions for securities disposed(2)– – (2)
Reductions for securities charged-off(21)– – (21)
Balance as of end-of-year (2)
$$$$19 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Corporate BondsRMBSOtherTotal
Balance as of beginning-of-year$17 $$$19 
Additions from purchases of PCD debt securities (1)
– – – – 
Additions for securities for which credit losses were not
previously recognized– 
Additions (reductions) for securities for which credit losses
 were previously recognized
Reductions for securities disposed(2)– – (2)
Reductions for securities charged-off(12)– – (12)
Balance as of end-of-year (2)
$$$$21 




38


For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
Corporate BondsRMBSOtherTotal
Balance as of beginning-of-year$12 $$– $13 
Additions from purchases of PCD debt securities (1)
– – – – 
Additions for securities for which credit losses were not
previously recognized– 
Additions (reductions) for securities for which credit losses
 were previously recognized– – 
Reductions for securities disposed(2)– – (2)
Reductions for securities charged-off(6)– – (6)
Balance as of end-of-year (2)
$17 $$$19 
(1) Represents purchased credit-deteriorated (“PCD”) fixed maturity AFS securities.

(2) As of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, accrued investment income on fixed maturity AFS securities totaled $814 million, $1.1 billion and $944 million, respectively, and was excluded from the estimate of credit losses.

Trading Securities

Trading securities at fair value (in millions) consisted of the following:

As of December 31,
20232022
Fixed maturity securities:
Corporate bonds$1,615 $2,196 
State and municipal bonds21 21 
Foreign government bonds46 49 
RMBS62 99 
CMBS104 137 
ABS455 919 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities18 25 
Total trading securities$2,321 $3,446 

The portion of the market adjustment for trading gains and losses recognized in realized gain (loss) that relate to trading securities still held as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, was $80 million, $(628) million and $(48) million, respectively.

Mortgage Loans on Real Estate

The following provides the current and past due composition of our mortgage loans on real estate (in millions):

As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
CommercialResidentialTotalCommercialResidentialTotal
Current$17,165 $1,665 $18,830 $16,913 $1,315 $18,228 
30 to 59 days past due61 28 89 19 23 42 
60 to 89 days past due– – 
90 or more days past due– 60 60 – 33 33 
Allowance for credit losses(86)(28)(114)(83)(15)(98)
Unamortized premium (discount)(7)43 36 (9)36 27 
Mark-to-market gains (losses) (1)
(36)(1)(37)(27)– (27)
Total carrying value$17,097 $1,776 $18,873 $16,813 $1,398 $18,211 

(1) Represents the mark-to-market on certain mortgage loans on real estate for which we have elected the fair value option. See Note 15 for additional information.

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Our commercial mortgage loan portfolio had the largest concentrations in California, which accounted for 27% and 28% of commercial mortgage loans on real estate as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and Texas, which accounted for 9% of commercial mortgage loans on real estate as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
 
As of December 31, 2023, our residential mortgage loan portfolio had the largest concentrations in California and New York, which accounted for 14% and 12% of residential mortgage loans on real estate, respectively. As of December 31, 2022, our residential mortgage loan portfolio had the largest concentrations in California and New Jersey, which accounted for 17% and 12% of residential mortgage loans on real estate, respectively.

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had 116 and 73 residential mortgage loans, respectively, that were either delinquent or in foreclosure. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had 82 and 49 residential mortgage loans in foreclosure, respectively, with an aggregate carrying value of $38 million and $21 million, respectively.

We adopted ASU 2022-02, Troubled Debt Restructurings and Vintage Disclosures as of January 1, 2023, and accordingly no longer identify certain debt modifications as troubled debt restructurings. Losses from loan modifications for the year ended December 31, 2023, were less than $1 million and reported in realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were three and two specifically identified impaired commercial mortgage loans, respectively, with an aggregate carrying value of $2 million and less than $1 million, respectively.

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were 99 and 37 specifically identified impaired residential mortgage loans, respectively, with an aggregate carrying value of $47 million and $16 million, respectively.

Additional information related to impaired mortgage loans on real estate (in millions) was as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Average aggregate carrying value for impaired mortgage loans on real estate$30 $16 $32 
Interest income recognized on impaired mortgage loans on real estate– – – 
Interest income collected on impaired mortgage loans on real estate– – – 

The amortized cost of mortgage loans on real estate on nonaccrual status (in millions) was as follows:

As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
Nonaccrual
with no
Allowance
for Credit
Losses
NonaccrualNonaccrual
with no
Allowance
for Credit
Losses
Nonaccrual
Commercial mortgage loans on real estate$– $– $– $– 
Residential mortgage loans on real estate– 62 – 34 
Total$– $62 $– $34 

We use loan-to-value and debt-service coverage ratios as credit quality indicators for our commercial mortgage loans on real estate. The amortized cost of commercial mortgage loans on real estate (dollars in millions) by year of origination and credit quality indicator was as follows:


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As of December 31, 2023

Less than
65%
Debt-Service
Coverage
Ratio


65% to 75%
Debt-Service
Coverage
Ratio

Greater than 75%
Debt-Service
Coverage
Ratio


Total
Origination Year
2023$1,366 1.90 $54 1.38 $– – $1,420 
20221,709 2.07 140 1.54 – – 1,849 
20212,317 3.34 61 1.55 – – 2,378 
20201,205 3.23 11 1.38 – – 1,216 
20192,404 2.39 80 1.56 10 2.33 2,494 
2018 and prior7,770 2.39 78 1.60 14 0.87 7,862 
Total$16,771 $424 $24 $17,219 

As of December 31, 2022

Less than
 65%
Debt-Service
Coverage
Ratio


65% to 75%
Debt-Service
Coverage
Ratio

Greater than 75%
Debt-Service
Coverage
Ratio


Total
Origination Year
2022$1,769 2.06 $105 1.50 $1.45 $1,876 
20212,335 3.05 72 1.53 – – 2,407 
20201,280 2.99 17 1.58 – – 1,297 
20192,643 2.17 81 1.50 29 1.58 2,753 
20182,222 2.17 67 1.62 – – 2,289 
2017 and prior6,170 2.44 131 1.75 – – 6,301 
Total$16,419 $473 $31 $16,923 

We use loan performance status as the primary credit quality indicator for our residential mortgage loans on real estate. The amortized cost of residential mortgage loans on real estate (in millions) by year of origination and credit quality indicator was as follows:

As of December 31, 2023
PerformingNonperformingTotal
Origination Year
2023$515 $$517 
2022533 22 555 
2021465 18 483 
202078 81 
201999 13 112 
2018 and prior53 57 
Total$1,743 $62 $1,805 

As of December 31, 2022
PerformingNonperformingTotal
Origination Year
2022$578 $$583 
2021527 533 
202090 93 
2019119 18 137 
201865 67 
2017 and prior– – – 
Total$1,379 $34 $1,413 



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Credit Losses on Mortgage Loans on Real Estate

In connection with our recognition of an allowance for credit losses for mortgage loans on real estate, we perform a quantitative analysis using a probability of default/loss given default/exposure at default approach to estimate expected credit losses in our mortgage loan portfolio as well as unfunded commitments related to commercial mortgage loans, exclusive of certain mortgage loans held at fair value. See Note 1 for a discussion regarding our accounting policy relating to the allowance for credit losses on our mortgage loans on real estate.

Changes in the allowance for credit losses on mortgage loans on real estate (in millions) were as follows:

For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
CommercialResidentialTotal
Balance as of beginning-of-year$83 $15 $98 
Additions (reductions) from provision for credit loss expense (1)
13 16 
Additions from purchases of PCD mortgage loans on real estate– – – 
Balance as of end-of-year (2)
$86 $28 $114 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
CommercialResidentialTotal
Balance as of beginning-of-year$78 $17 $95 
Additions (reductions) from provision for credit loss expense (1)
(2)
Additions from purchases of PCD mortgage loans on real estate– – – 
Balance as of end-of-year (2)
$83 $15 $98 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
CommercialResidentialTotal
Balance as of beginning-of-year$186 $17 $203 
Additions (reductions) from provision for credit loss expense (1)
(108)– (108)
Additions from purchases of PCD mortgage loans on real estate– – – 
Balance as of end-of-year (2)
$78 $17 $95 

(1) We recognized $(1) million of credit loss benefit (expense) related to unfunded commitments for mortgage loans on real estate for the year ended December 31, 2023. We did not recognize any credit loss benefit (expense) related to unfunded commitments for
mortgage loans on real estate for the year ended December 31, 2022. We recognized $3 million of credit loss
benefit (expense) related to unfunded commitments for mortgage loans on real estate for the year ended December 31, 2021.     
(2) Accrued investment income on mortgage loans on real estate totaled $67 million, $51 million and $48 million as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and was excluded from the estimate of credit losses.

Alternative Investments 

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, alternative investments included investments in 332 and 328 different partnerships, respectively, and represented approximately 3% and 2% of total investments, respectively.
 

42


Net Investment Income

The major categories of net investment income (in millions) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) were as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Fixed maturity AFS securities$4,961 $4,408 $4,242 
Trading securities158 179 165 
Equity securities13 11 
Mortgage loans on real estate752 687 677 
Policy loans102 100 115 
Cash and invested cash118 12 – 
Commercial mortgage loan prepayment
and bond make-whole premiums10 100 195 
Alternative investments244 96 677 
Consent fees10 
Other investments(38)75 60 
 Investment income6,323 5,676 6,144 
Investment expense(611)(402)(305)
 Net investment income$5,712 $5,274 $5,839 

Impairments on Fixed Maturity AFS Securities

Details underlying intent to sell impairments and credit loss benefit (expense) incurred that were recognized in net income (loss) and
included in realized gain (loss) on fixed maturity AFS securities (in millions) were as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Intent to Sell Impairments (1)
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$(3,805)$– $– 
State and municipal bonds(214)– – 
RMBS(74)– – 
CMBS(60)– – 
ABS(57)– – 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities(3)– – 
Total intent to sell impairments$(4,213)$– $– 
Credit Loss Benefit (Expense)
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$(23)$(4)$(10)
RMBS(6)– 
ABS(4)– 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities– – (1)
Total credit loss benefit (expense)$(21)$(14)$(11)

(1)     Represents impairments of certain fixed maturity AFS securities in an unrealized loss position, resulting from the Company’s intent to sell these securities as part of the Fortitude Re reinsurance transaction. Pursuant to the applicable accounting guidance, the Company impaired the securities in a loss position down to fair market value upon entry into the agreements in the second quarter of 2023 and recognized additional impairment on certain of these securities during the third quarter of 2023 due to higher interest rates. Interest rates declined during the fourth quarter of 2023, which resulted in recognition of a $295 million pre-tax net gain upon close of the transaction, included in gross gains and gross losses on fixed maturity AFS securities in Note 21. See Note 8 for additional information.

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Payables for Collateral on Investments

The carrying value of the payables for collateral on investments included on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the fair value of the related investments or collateral (in millions) consisted of the following:

As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
Carrying
 Value
Fair ValueCarrying
 Value
Fair Value
Collateral payable for derivative investments (1)
$5,127 $5,127 $3,210 $3,210 
Securities pledged under securities lending agreements (2)
205 197 298 287 
Investments pledged for FHLBI (3)
2,650 3,603 3,130 3,925 
Total payables for collateral on investments$7,982 $8,927 $6,638 $7,422 

(1) We obtain collateral based upon contractual provisions with our counterparties. These agreements take into consideration the counterparties’ credit rating as compared to ours, the fair value of the derivative investments and specified thresholds that if exceeded result in the receipt of cash that is typically invested in cash and invested cash or fixed maturity AFS securities. This also includes interest payable on collateral. See Note 6 for additional information.
(2) Our pledged securities under securities lending agreements are included in fixed maturity AFS securities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. We generally obtain collateral in an amount equal to 102% and 105% of the fair value of the domestic and foreign securities, respectively. We value collateral daily and obtain additional collateral when deemed appropriate. The cash received in our securities lending program is typically invested in cash and invested cash or fixed maturity AFS securities.
(3) Our pledged investments for FHLBI are included in fixed maturity AFS securities and mortgage loans on real estate on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The collateral requirements are generally 105% to 115% of the fair value for fixed maturity AFS securities and 155% to 175% of the fair value for mortgage loans on real estate. The cash received in these transactions is primarily invested in cash and invested cash or fixed maturity AFS securities.

We have repurchase agreements through which we can obtain liquidity by pledging securities. The collateral requirements are generally 80% to 95% of the fair value of the securities, and our agreements with third parties contain contractual provisions to allow for additional collateral to be obtained when necessary. The cash received in our repurchase program is typically invested in fixed maturity AFS securities. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we were not participating in any open repurchase agreements.

Increase (decrease) in payables for collateral on investments (in millions) consisted of the following:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Collateral payable for derivative investments$1,917 $(2,355)$2,595 
Securities pledged under securities lending agreements(93)57 126 
Investments pledged for FHLBI(480)– – 
Total increase (decrease) in payables for collateral on investments$1,344 $(2,298)$2,721 

We have elected not to offset our securities lending transactions in the consolidated financial statements. The remaining contractual maturities of securities lending transactions accounted for as secured borrowings (in millions) were as follows:

As of December 31, 2023
Overnight
and
Continuous
Up to 30 Days30-90 DaysGreater than
90 Days
Total
Securities Lending
Corporate bonds$202 $– $– $– $202 
Equity securities– – – 
Total gross secured borrowings$205 $– $– $– $205 
 

44


As of December 31, 2022
Overnight
 and
Continuous
Up to 30 Days30-90 DaysGreater than
90 Days
Total
Securities Lending
Corporate bonds$288 $– $– $– $288 
Foreign government bonds– – – 
Equity securities– – – 
Total gross secured borrowings$298 $– $– $– $298 

We accept collateral in the form of securities in connection with repurchase agreements. In instances where we are permitted to sell or re-pledge the securities received, we report the fair value of the collateral received and a related obligation to return the collateral in the consolidated financial statements. In addition, we receive securities in connection with securities borrowing agreements that we are permitted to sell or re-pledge. As of December 31, 2023, the fair value of all collateral received that we are permitted to sell or re-pledge was $25 million, and we had not re-pledged any of this collateral to cover our collateral requirements.

We also accept collateral from derivative counterparties in the form of securities which we are permitted to sell or re-pledge. As of
December 31, 2023, the fair value of this collateral received that we are permitted to sell or re-pledge was $1.3 billion, and we had repledged $553 million of this collateral to cover our collateral requirements.

We have also pledged fixed maturity AFS securities to derivative counterparties with a fair value of $42 million as of December 31, 2023.

Investment Commitments

As of December 31, 2023, our investment commitments were $3.0 billion, which included $2.3 billion of LPs, $536 million of mortgage loans on real estate and $197 million of private placement securities.

Concentrations of Financial Instruments

As of December 31, 2023, our most significant investments in one issuer were our investments in securities issued by White Chapel V LLC and White Chapel LLC with a fair value of $1.3 billion and $1.0 billion, respectively, or 1% of total investments. As of December 31, 2022, our most significant investments in one issuer were our investments in securities issued by White Chapel LLC and the Federal National Mortgage Association with a fair value of $1.0 billion and $702 million, respectively, or 1% of total investments. These concentrations include fixed maturity AFS, trading and equity securities.

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, our most significant investments in one industry were our investments in securities in the financial services industry with a fair value of $16.6 billion and $19.2 billion, respectively, or 14% and 15%, respectively, of total investments, and our investments in securities in the consumer non-cyclical industry with a fair value of $11.3 billion and $14.3 billion, respectively, or 10% and 11%, respectively, of total investments. These concentrations include fixed maturity AFS, trading and equity securities.

5. Variable Interest Entities

Unconsolidated VIEs

Reinsurance-Related Notes

Effective October 1, 2017, our captive reinsurance subsidiary, the Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont VI, restructured the $275 million, long-term surplus note which was originally issued to a non-affiliated VIE in October 2015 in exchange for two corporate bond AFS securities of like principal and duration.  The activities of the VIE are primarily to acquire, hold and issue notes and loans and to pay and collect interest on the notes and loans.  The outstanding principal balance of the long-term surplus note is variable in nature; moving concurrently with any variability in the face amount of the corporate bond AFS securities.  We have concluded that we are not the primary beneficiary of the non-affiliated VIE because we do not have power over the activities that most significantly affect its economic performance. As of December 31, 2023, the principal balance of the long-term surplus note was zero and we do not currently have any exposure to this VIE.


45


Structured Securities

Through our investment activities, we make passive investments in structured securities issued by VIEs for which we are not the manager. These structured securities include our ABS, RMBS and CMBS. We have not provided financial or other support with respect to these VIEs other than our original investment. We have determined that we are not the primary beneficiary of these VIEs due to the relative size of our investment in comparison to the principal amount of the structured securities issued by the VIEs and the level of credit subordination that reduces our obligation to absorb losses or right to receive benefits. Our maximum exposure to loss on these structured securities is limited to the amortized cost for these investments. We recognize our variable interest in these VIEs at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. For information about these structured securities, see Note 4.

Limited Partnerships and Limited Liability Companies

We invest in certain LPs and limited liability companies (“LLCs”) that we have concluded are VIEs. Our exposure to loss is limited to the capital we invest in the LPs and LLCs. We do not hold any substantive kick-out or participation rights in the LPs and LLCs, and we do not receive any performance fees or decision maker fees from the LPs and LLCs. Based on our analysis of the LPs and LLCs, we are not the primary beneficiary of the VIEs as we do not have the power to direct the most significant activities of the LPs and LLCs. The carrying amounts of our investments in the LPs and LLCs are recognized in other investments on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and were $4.0 billion and $3.0 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

6. Derivative Instruments
 
We maintain an overall risk management strategy that incorporates the use of derivative instruments to minimize significant unplanned fluctuations in earnings that are caused by interest rate risk, foreign currency exchange risk, equity market risk, basis risk, commodity risk and credit risk. We assess these risks by continually identifying and monitoring changes in our exposures that may adversely affect expected future cash flows and by evaluating hedging opportunities.

Derivative activities are monitored by various management committees. The committees are responsible for overseeing the implementation of various hedging strategies that are developed through the analysis of financial simulation models and other internal and industry sources. The resulting hedging strategies are incorporated into our overall risk management strategies.
See Note 1 for a discussion of the accounting treatment for derivative instruments. See Note 15 for additional disclosures related to the fair value of our derivative instruments and Note 5 for derivative instruments related to our consolidated VIEs.

Interest Rate Contracts

We use derivative instruments as part of our interest rate risk management strategy. These instruments are economic hedges unless otherwise noted and include:

Forward-Starting Interest Rate Swaps

We use forward-starting interest rate swaps to hedge the interest rate exposure within our annuity and life insurance products.

Interest Rate Cap Corridors

We use interest rate cap corridors to provide a level of protection from the effect of rising interest rates for certain annuity contracts and life insurance products. Interest rate cap corridors involve purchasing an interest rate cap at a specific cap rate and selling an interest rate cap with a higher cap rate. For each corridor, the amount of quarterly payments, if any, is determined by the rate at which the underlying index rate resets above the original capped rate. The corridor limits the benefit the purchaser can receive as the related interest rate index rises above the higher capped rate. There is no additional liability to us other than the purchase price associated with the interest rate cap corridor.

Interest Rate Futures

We use interest rate futures contracts to hedge the liability exposure on certain options in variable annuity products. These futures contracts require payment between our counterparty and us on a daily basis for changes in the futures index price.

46


Interest Rate Swap Agreements

We use interest rate swap agreements to hedge the liability exposure on certain options in variable annuity products.

We also use interest rate swap agreements designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges to hedge the interest rate risk of floating-rate bond coupon payments by replicating a fixed-rate bond.

Finally, we use interest rate swap agreements designated and qualifying as fair value hedges to hedge against changes in the fair value of certain fixed maturity securities due to interest rate risks.

Reverse Treasury Locks

We use reverse treasury locks designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges to hedge the interest rate exposure related to the anticipated purchase of fixed-rate securities or the anticipated future cash flows of floating-rate fixed maturity securities due to changes in interest rates. These derivatives are primarily structured to hedge interest rate risk inherent in the assumptions used to price certain liabilities.

Foreign Currency Contracts

We use derivative instruments as part of our foreign currency risk management strategy. These instruments are economic hedges unless otherwise noted and include:

Currency Futures

We use currency futures to hedge foreign exchange risk associated with certain options in variable annuity products. Currency futures exchange one currency for another at a specified date in the future at a specified exchange rate.

Foreign Currency Swaps

We use foreign currency swaps to hedge foreign exchange risk of investments in fixed maturity securities denominated in foreign currencies. A foreign currency swap is a contractual agreement to exchange one currency for another at specified dates in the future at a specified exchange rate.

We also use foreign currency swaps designated and qualifying as cash flow hedges to hedge foreign exchange risk of investments in fixed maturity securities denominated in foreign currencies.

Foreign Currency Forwards

We use foreign currency forwards to hedge foreign exchange risk of investments in fixed maturity securities denominated in foreign currencies. A foreign currency forward is a contractual agreement to exchange one currency for another at specified dates in the future at a specified current exchange rate.

Equity Market Contracts

We use derivative instruments as part of our equity market risk management strategy that are economic hedges and include:

Call Options Based on the S&P 500® Index and Other Indices

We use call options to hedge the liability exposure on certain options in variable annuity, RILA, fixed indexed annuity, IUL and VUL products.

Our RILA, fixed indexed annuity and IUL contracts permit the holder to elect an interest rate return or an equity market component, where interest credited to the contracts is linked to the performance of the S&P 500 Index or other indices. Policyholders may elect to rebalance index options at renewal dates. At the end of each indexed term, which can be up to six years, we have the opportunity to re-price the indexed component by establishing participation rates, caps, spreads and specified rates, subject to contractual guarantees. We use call options that are highly correlated to the portfolio allocation decisions of our policyholders, such that we are economically hedged with respect to equity returns for the current reset period.

47


Consumer Price Index Swaps

We use consumer price index swaps to hedge the liability exposure on certain options in fixed annuity products. Consumer price index swaps are contracts entered into at no cost and whose payoff is the difference between the consumer price index inflation rate and the fixed-rate determined as of inception.

Equity Futures

We use equity futures contracts to hedge the liability exposure on certain options in variable annuity products. These futures contracts require payment between our counterparty and us on a daily basis for changes in the futures index price.

Put Options

We use put options to hedge the liability exposure on certain options in variable annuity, RILA and VUL products. Put options are contracts that require the buyers to pay at a specified future date the amount, if any, by which a specified equity index is less than the strike rate stated in the agreement, applied to a notional amount.

Total Return Swaps

We use total return swaps to hedge the liability exposure on certain options in variable annuity, RILA and VUL products.

In addition, we use total return swaps to hedge a portion of the liability related to our deferred compensation plans. We receive the total return on a portfolio of indexes and pay a floating-rate of interest.

Commodity Contracts

We use commodity contracts to economically hedge certain investments that are closely tied to the changes in commodity values. The commodity contract is an over-the-counter contract that combines a purchase put/sold call to lock in a commodity price within a predetermined range in exchange for a net premium.

Credit Contracts

We use derivative instruments as part of our credit risk management strategy that are economic hedges and include:

Credit Default Swaps – Buying Protection

We use credit default swaps (“CDSs”) to hedge the liability exposure on certain options in variable annuity products.

We buy CDSs to hedge against a drop in bond prices due to credit concerns of certain bond issuers. A CDS allows us to put the bond back to the counterparty at par upon a default event by the bond issuer. A default event is defined as bankruptcy, failure to pay, obligation acceleration or restructuring.

CDSs – Selling Protection

We use CDSs to hedge the liability exposure on certain options in variable annuity products.

We sell CDSs to offer credit protection to policyholders and investors. The CDSs hedge the policyholders and investors against a drop in bond prices due to credit concerns of certain bond issuers. A CDS allows the investor to put the bond back to us at par upon a default event by the bond issuer. A default event is defined as bankruptcy, failure to pay, obligation acceleration or restructuring.
 
Other Derivatives

Lapse Protection Rider Ceded Derivative

We also have an inter-company agreement through which Lincoln National Reinsurance Company (Barbados) Limited (“LNBAR”), an affiliated reinsurer, assumes the risk under certain UL contracts for lapse protection riders (“LPR”). If the policyholder’s account balance is insufficient to pay the cost of insurance charges required to keep the policy in force, and the policyholder has made the required deposits, we will be reimbursed for those charges.

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Embedded Derivatives

We have embedded derivatives that include:

RILA, Fixed Indexed Annuity and IUL Contracts Embedded Derivatives

Our RILA, fixed indexed annuity and IUL contracts permit the holder to elect an interest rate return or an equity market component, where interest credited to the contracts is linked to the performance of the S&P 500® Index or other indices. Policyholders may elect to rebalance index options at renewal dates. At the end of each indexed term, which can be up to six years, we have the opportunity to re-price the indexed component by establishing participation rates, caps, spreads and specified rates, subject to contractual guarantees. We use options that are highly correlated to the portfolio allocation decisions of our policyholders, such that we are economically hedged with respect to equity returns for the current reset period.

Reinsurance-Related Embedded Derivatives

We have certain modified coinsurance and coinsurance with funds withheld reinsurance agreements with embedded derivatives related to the withheld assets of the related funds. These derivatives are considered total return swaps with contractual returns that are attributable to various assets and liabilities associated with these reinsurance agreements.

Derivatives Related to Divestitures and Reinsurance Transactions

We used interest rate futures contracts to hedge the interest rate risk related to the assets used as consideration in the Fortitude Re reinsurance transaction. These futures contracts required payment between our counterparty and us on a daily basis for changes in the associated future index prices.

We use swaptions and forward-starting swaps to hedge the interest rate risk associated with the Stock Purchase Agreement entered into with Osaic.
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We have derivative instruments with off-balance-sheet risks whose notional or contract amounts exceed the related credit exposure. Outstanding derivative instruments with off-balance-sheet risks (in millions) were as follows:
As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
Notional AmountsFair ValueNotional AmountsFair Value
AssetLiabilityAssetLiability
Qualifying Hedges
Cash flow hedges:
Interest rate contracts (1)
$485 $11 $47 $1,377 $$232 
Foreign currency contracts (1)
4,662 423 78 4,383 643 18 
Total cash flow hedges5,147 434 125 5,760 647 250 
Fair value hedges:
Interest rate contracts (1)
450 39 524 44 
Foreign currency contracts (1)
25 – – – – 
Total fair value hedges475 40 524 44 
Non-Qualifying Hedges
Interest rate contracts (1)
90,829 636 979 105,977 709 935 
Foreign currency contracts (1)
306 11 395 27 
Equity market contracts (1)
225,251 10,244 4,227 142,653 5,135 2,035 
Commodity contracts (1)
– – – 13 14 
Credit contracts (1)
91 – – – – – 
LPR ceded derivative (2)
– 206 – – 212 – 
Embedded derivatives:
Reinsurance-related (3)
– 493 – – 681 – 
RILA, fixed indexed annuity and IUL contracts (4)
– 940 9,077 – 525 4,783 
Total derivative instruments$322,099 $12,965 $14,454 $255,322 $7,952 $8,052 

(1) These asset and liability balances are presented on a gross basis. Amounts are reported in derivative investments and other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets after the evaluation for right of offset subject to master netting agreements as described in Note 1.
(2) Reported in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(3) Reported in funds withheld reinsurance liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(4)    Reported in policyholder account balances and deposit assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The maturity of the notional amounts of derivative instruments (in millions) was as follows:

Remaining Life as of December 31, 2023
Less Than 1 Year1 – 5
Years
6 - 10
Years
11 - 30
Years
Over 30
Years
Total
Interest rate contracts (1)
$22,166 $25,350 $22,349 $21,899 $– $91,764 
Foreign currency contracts (2)
276 956 1,687 2,032 42 4,993 
Equity market contracts174,430 37,200 6,950 6,662 225,251 
Credit contracts– 91 – – – 91 
Total derivative instruments
with notional amounts$196,872 $63,597 $30,986 $23,940 $6,704 $322,099 

(1) As of December 31, 2023, the latest maturity date for which we were hedging our exposure to the variability in future cash flows for these instruments was December 18, 2024.
(2) As of December 31, 2023, the latest maturity date for which we were hedging our exposure to the variability in future cash flows for these instruments was June 16, 2061.

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The following amounts (in millions) were recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets related to cumulative basis adjustments for fair value hedges:
Amortized Cost of the
Hedged
Assets / (Liabilities)
Cumulative Fair Value
 Hedging Adjustment
Included in the
Amortized Cost of the
Hedged Assets / (Liabilities)
As of
December 31,
2023
As of
December 31,
2022
As of
December 31,
2023
As of
December 31,
2022
Line Item in the Consolidated Balance Sheets in
which the Hedged Item is Included
Fixed maturity AFS securities, at fair value$534 $587 $39 $44 

The change in our unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments within AOCI (in millions) was as follows:
For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments
Balance as of beginning-of-year$301 $258 $42 
Cumulative effect from adoption of new accounting standard– – 25 
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period:
Cash flow hedges:
Interest rate contracts212 (336)11 
Foreign currency contracts(50)182 130 
Change in foreign currency exchange rate adjustment(169)312 152 
Income tax benefit (expense)(34)(63)
Less:
Reclassification adjustment for gains (losses)
included in net income (loss):
Cash flow hedges:
Interest rate contracts (1)
(1)
Foreign currency contracts (1)
54 62 48 
Foreign currency contracts (2)
39 (2)
Income tax benefit (expense)(13)(22)(10)
Balance as of end-of-year$249 $301 $258 

(1) The OCI offset is reported within net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
(2) The OCI offset is reported within realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

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The effects of qualifying and non-qualifying hedges (in millions) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) were as follows:
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income
For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
Realized Gain (Loss)Net Investment IncomeBenefits
Total Line Items in which the Effects of Fair Value or Cash
Flow Hedges are Recorded$(4,934)$5,712 $5,044 
Qualifying Hedges
Gain or (loss) on fair value hedging relationships:
Interest rate contracts:
Hedged items– (5)– 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments– – 
Gain or (loss) on cash flow hedging relationships:
Interest rate contracts:
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income– (1)– 
Foreign currency contracts:
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income54 – 
Non-Qualifying Hedges
Interest rate contracts(161)– – 
Foreign currency contracts(2)– – 
Equity market contracts1,387 – – 
Commodity contracts– – 
Credit contracts(4)– – 
LPR ceded derivative– – 
Embedded derivatives:
Reinsurance-related(188)– – 
RILA, fixed indexed annuity and IUL contracts(3,187)– – 

Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Realized Gain (Loss)Net Investment IncomeBenefits
Total Line Items in which the Effects of Fair Value or Cash
 Flow Hedges are Recorded$418 $5,274 $8,203 
Qualifying Hedges
Gain or (loss) on fair value hedging relationships:
Interest rate contracts:
Hedged items– (167)– 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments– 167 
Gain or (loss) on cash flow hedging relationships:
Interest rate contracts:
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income– – 
Foreign currency contracts:
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income39 62 – 
Non-Qualifying Hedges
Interest rate contracts(2,113)– – 
Foreign currency contracts– – 
Equity market contracts(2,075)– – 
Commodity contracts11 – – 
Credit contracts(4)– – 
LPR ceded derivative– – 106 
Embedded derivatives:
Reinsurance-related1,259 – – 
RILA, fixed indexed annuity and IUL contracts1,760 – – 

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Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
Realized Gain (Loss)Net Investment IncomeBenefits
Total Line Items in which the Effects of Fair Value or Cash
 Flow Hedges are Recorded$859 $5,839 $8,027 
Qualifying Hedges
Gain or (loss) on fair value hedging relationships:
Interest rate contracts:
Hedged items– (60)– 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments– 60 
Gain or (loss) on cash flow hedging relationships:
Interest rate contracts:
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income– – 
Foreign currency contracts:
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from AOCI into income(2)48 – 
Non-Qualifying Hedges
Interest rate contracts(957)– – 
Foreign currency contracts(1)– – 
Equity market contracts3,355 – – 
Credit contracts(1)– – 
Embedded derivatives:
Reinsurance-related280 – – 
RILA, fixed indexed annuity and IUL contracts(2,622)– – 

As of December 31, 2023, $56 million of the deferred net gains (losses) on derivative instruments in AOCI were expected to be reclassified to earnings during the next 12 months. This reclassification would be due primarily to interest rate variances related to our interest rate swap agreements.

For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, there were no material reclassifications to earnings due to hedged firm commitments no longer deemed probable or due to hedged forecasted transactions that had not occurred by the end of the originally specified time period.

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we did not have any exposure related to CDSs for which we are the seller.

Credit Risk

We are exposed to credit losses in the event of non-performance by our counterparties on various derivative contracts and reflect assumptions regarding the credit or non-performance risk. The non-performance risk is based upon assumptions for each counterparty’s credit spread over the estimated weighted average life of the counterparty exposure, less collateral held. As of December 31, 2023, the non-performance risk adjustment was zero. The credit risk associated with such agreements is minimized by entering into agreements with financial institutions with long-standing, superior performance records. Additionally, we maintain a policy of requiring derivative contracts to be governed by an International Swaps and Derivatives Association (“ISDA”) Master Agreement. We are required to maintain minimum ratings as a matter of routine practice in negotiating ISDA agreements. Under some ISDA agreements, we and LLANY have agreed to maintain certain financial strength or claims-paying ability. A downgrade below these levels could result in termination of derivative contracts, at which time any amounts payable by us would be dependent on the market value of the underlying derivative contracts. In certain transactions, we and the counterparty have entered into a credit support annex requiring either party to post collateral when net exposures exceed pre-determined thresholds. These thresholds vary by counterparty and credit rating. The amount of such exposure is essentially the net replacement cost or market value less collateral held for such agreements with each counterparty if the net market value is in our favor. We did not have any exposure as of December 31, 2023 or 2022.

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The amounts recognized (in millions) by S&P credit rating of counterparty, for which we had the right to reclaim cash collateral or were obligated to return cash collateral, were as follows:

As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
S&P
Credit
Rating of
Counterparty
Collateral
Posted by
Counter-
Party
(Held by
LNL)
Collateral
Posted by
LNL
(Held by
Counter-
Party)
Collateral
Posted by
Counter-
Party
(Held by
LNL)
Collateral
Posted by
LNL
(Held by
Counter-
Party)
AA-$2,330 $(63)$383 $(6)
A+2,422 (125)1,718 (151)
A82 – 1,099 – 
A-273 – – – 
$5,107 $(188)$3,200 $(157)
 
Balance Sheet Offsetting

Information related to the effects of offsetting on the Consolidated Balance Sheets (in millions) was as follows:

As of December 31, 2023
Derivative
Instruments
Embedded
Derivative
Instruments
Total
Financial Assets
Gross amount of recognized assets$10,714 $1,433 $12,147 
Gross amounts offset(4,409)– (4,409)
Net amount of assets6,305 1,433 7,738 
Gross amounts not offset:
Cash collateral(5,107)– (5,107)
Non-cash collateral (1)
(1,198)– (1,198)
Net amount– 1,433 1,433 
Financial Liabilities
Gross amount of recognized liabilities968 9,077 10,045 
Gross amounts offset(612)– (612)
Net amount of liabilities356 9,077 9,433 
Gross amounts not offset:
Cash collateral(188)– (188)
Non-cash collateral (2)
(168)– (168)
Net amount$– $9,077 $9,077 

(1) Excludes excess non-cash collateral received of $1.3 billion, as the collateral offset is limited to the net estimated fair value of
derivatives after application of netting arrangements.
(2) Excludes excess non-cash collateral pledged of $81 million, as the collateral offset is limited to the net estimated fair value of
derivatives after application of netting arrangements.
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As of December 31, 2022
Derivative
Instruments
Embedded
Derivative
Instruments
Total
Financial Assets
Gross amount of recognized assets$6,483 $1,206 $7,689 
Gross amounts offset(2,964)– (2,964)
Net amount of assets3,519 1,206 4,725 
Gross amounts not offset:
Cash collateral(3,200)– (3,200)
Non-cash collateral (1)
(319)– (319)
Net amount– 1,206 1,206 
Financial Liabilities
Gross amount of recognized liabilities304 4,783 5,087 
Gross amounts offset(50)– (50)
Net amount of liabilities254 4,783 5,037 
Gross amounts not offset:
Cash collateral(157)– (157)
Non-cash collateral (2)
(46)– (46)
Net amount$51 $4,783 $4,834 

(1) Excludes excess non-cash collateral received of $1.1 billion, as the collateral offset is limited to the net estimated fair value of derivatives after application of netting arrangements.
(2) There was no excess non-cash collateral pledged as of December 31, 2022.

7. DAC, VOBA, DSI and DFEL

The following table reconciles DAC, VOBA and DSI (in millions) to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

As of December 31,
20232022
DAC, VOBA and DSI
Variable Annuities$4,025 $4,047 
Fixed Annuities456 479 
Traditional Life1,374 1,336 
UL and Other6,139 6,002 
Group Protection154 141 
Retirement Plan Services270 258 
Total DAC, VOBA and DSI$12,418 $12,263 















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The following table reconciles DFEL (in millions) to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

As of December 31,
20232022
DFEL
Variable Annuities$300 $310 
UL and Other (1)
5,579 4,766 
Other Operations (2)
44 39 
Total DFEL$5,923 $5,115 


(1) We reported $2.3 billion of ceded DFEL in reinsurance recoverables on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2023.
(2) Represents DFEL reported in Other Operations attributable to the indemnity reinsurance agreement with Protective that is excluded from the following tables. We reported $44 million and $39 million of ceded DFEL in reinsurance recoverables on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

The following tables summarize the changes in DAC (in millions):

For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
Variable
Annuities
Fixed
Annuities
Traditional
Life
UL and
Other
Group ProtectionRetirement
Plan
Services
Balance as of beginning-of-year$3,880 $439 $1,286 $5,518 $141 $241 
Deferrals361 50 188 482 113 21 
Amortization(373)(68)(142)(291)(100)(18)
Balance as of end-of-year$3,868 $421 $1,332 $5,709 $154 $244 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Variable
Annuities
Fixed
Annuities
Traditional
Life
UL and
Other
Group ProtectionRetirement
Plan
Services
Balance as of beginning-of-year$3,860 $448 $1,146 $5,269 $140 $239 
Deferrals390 60 266 537 98 21 
Amortization(370)(69)(126)(288)(97)(19)
Balance as of end-of-year$3,880 $439 $1,286 $5,518 $141 $241 

DAC amortization expense of $992 million, $969 million and $969 million was recorded in commissions and other expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

The following tables summarize the changes in VOBA (in millions):

For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
Fixed
Annuities
Traditional
Life
UL and
Other
Balance as of beginning-of-year$17 $50 $454 
Business acquired (sold) through
reinsurance– – (11)
Deferrals– – 
Amortization(2)(8)(43)
Balance as of end-of-year$15 $42 $402 

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For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Fixed
Annuities
Traditional
Life
UL and
Other
Balance as of beginning-of-year$20 $59 $499 
Deferrals– – 
Amortization(3)(9)(47)
Balance as of end-of-year$17 $50 $454 

VOBA amortization expense of $53 million, $59 million and $75 million was recorded in commissions and other expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. No additions or write-offs were recorded for each respective year.

Estimated future amortization of VOBA (in millions), as of December 31, 2023, was as follows:

2024$39 
202537 
202634 
202729 
202825 

The following tables summarize the changes in DSI (in millions):

For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
Variable AnnuitiesFixed
Annuities
UL and
Other
Retirement
Plan
Services
Balance as of beginning-of-year$167 $23 $30 $17 
Deferrals– – 10 
Amortization(15)(3)(2)(1)
Balance as of end-of-year$157 $20 $28 $26 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Variable AnnuitiesFixed
Annuities
UL and
Other
Retirement
Plan
Services
Balance as of beginning-of-year$181 $27 $31 $14 
Deferrals– 
Amortization(16)(4)(2)(1)
Balance as of end-of-year$167 $23 $30 $17 

DSI amortization expense of $21 million, $23 million and $27 million was recorded in interest credited on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

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The following tables summarize the changes in DFEL (in millions):

For the Year Ended December 31, 2023For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Variable AnnuitiesUL and
Other
Variable AnnuitiesUL and
Other
Balance as of beginning-of-year$310 $4,766 $318 $3,934 
Deferrals19 1,074 22 1,061 
Amortization(29)(261)(30)(229)
Balance as of end-of-year300 5,579 310 4,766 
Less: ceded DFEL– 2,252 – 31 
Balance as of end-of-year, net of reinsurance$300 $3,327 $310 $4,735 

DFEL amortization of $290 million, $259 million and $220 million was recorded in fee income on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

8. Reinsurance

The following summarizes reinsurance amounts (in millions) recorded on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss), excluding amounts attributable to the indemnity reinsurance agreements with Protective and Swiss Re:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Direct insurance premiums and fee income$13,661 $13,479 $13,277 
Reinsurance assumed91 102 97 
Reinsurance ceded (1)
(5,168)(2,374)(2,249)
Total insurance premiums and fee income$8,584 $11,207 $11,125 
Direct insurance benefits$10,178 $10,266 $10,491 
Reinsurance ceded (1)
(5,150)(2,063)(2,464)
Total benefits$5,028 $8,203 $8,027 
Direct market risk benefit (gain) loss$(2,309)$(3,517)$(4,011)
Reinsurance ceded1,174 3,814 2,457 
Total market risk benefit (gain) loss$(1,135)$296 $(1,554)
Direct policyholder liability remeasurement (gain) loss$(234)$3,284 $(164)
Reinsurance ceded67 (839)45 
Total policyholder liability remeasurement (gain) loss$(167)$2,445 $(119)

(1) Includes impacts related to the Fortitude Re reinsurance transaction effective in the fourth quarter of 2023

We and LLANY cede insurance to other companies. The portion of our annuity and life insurance risks exceeding each of our insurance companies’ retention limit is reinsured with other insurers. We seek reinsurance coverage to limit our exposure to mortality losses and to enhance our capital management. Reinsurance does not discharge us from our primary obligation to contract holders for losses incurred under the policies we issue. We evaluate each reinsurance agreement to determine whether the agreement provides indemnification against loss or liability. As discussed in Note 26, a portion of this reinsurance activity is with affiliated companies.

As of December 31, 2023, the policy for our reinsurance program was to retain up to $20 million on a single insured life. As the amount we retain varies by policy, we reinsured 27% of the mortality risk on newly issued life insurance contracts in 2023.

Reinsurance Exposures

We focus on obtaining reinsurance from a diverse group of reinsurers, and we monitor concentration as well as financial strength ratings of our reinsurers.
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LNBAR

We reinsure blocks of business to LNBAR, an affiliated reinsurer. The amounts recoverable from LNBAR were $15.6 billion and $2.2 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The increase was driven primarily by an agreement between us and LNBAR that is structured as a coinsurance treaty, with some assets withheld, for certain blocks of in-force MoneyGuard® products. As significant insurance risk was transferred for the MoneyGuard blocks, amounts recoverable from LNBAR were $13.2 billion as of December 31, 2023. We recorded a deferred gain on the transaction of $4.2 billion, of which $14 million was amortized during 2023. As of December 31, 2023, we held other investments and cash and invested cash with a carrying value of $759 million and $112 million, respectively, in support of reserves associated with this agreement.

LNBAR has funded trusts to support reserves ceded by us of which the balance in the trusts changes as a result of ongoing reinsurance activity and totaled $13.0 billion and $2.2 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

Fortitude Re

Effective October 1, 2023, we entered into a reinsurance agreement with Fortitude Re, an authorized Bermuda reinsurer with reciprocal jurisdiction reinsurer status in Indiana, to reinsure certain blocks of in-force UL with secondary guarantees (“ULSG”) and fixed annuity products, including group pension annuities. Fortitude Re represents our largest unaffiliated reinsurance exposure as of December 31, 2023.

The agreement between us and Fortitude Re is structured as a coinsurance treaty for the ULSG and fixed annuities blocks. As significant insurance risk was transferred for ULSG products and life-contingent annuities, amounts recoverable from Fortitude Re were $10.5 billion as of December 31, 2023. We recorded a deferred loss on the transaction of $2.7 billion, of which $11 million was amortized during 2023. Annuities that are not life-contingent do not contain significant insurance risk; therefore, we recorded deposit assets for these contracts of $4.2 billion as of December 31, 2023.

Resolution Life

Effective October 1, 2021, we entered into a reinsurance agreement with Security Life of Denver Insurance Company (a subsidiary of Resolution Life that we refer to herein as “Resolution Life”) to reinsure liabilities under a block of in-force executive benefit and universal life policies. The agreement is structured as coinsurance for the general account reserves and modified coinsurance for the separate account reserves. Amounts recoverable from Resolution Life were $5.0 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Resolution Life has funded trusts, the balances of which change as a result of ongoing reinsurance activity to support the business ceded, that totaled $3.8 billion and $4.1 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. We recognized a realized gain of $635 million in 2021 for the coinsurance portion of the transaction upon the transfer of a portfolio of assets to Resolution Life.

Protective

The sale of individual life and individual and group annuity business acquired from Liberty Life Assurance Company of Boston completed May 1, 2018 resulted in amounts recoverable from Protective of $9.1 billion and $9.6 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Protective has funded trusts, of which the balance in the trusts changes as a result of ongoing reinsurance activity, to support the business ceded, which totaled $10.5 billion and $11.5 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Protective represents our second largest unaffiliated reinsurance exposure as of December 31, 2023.

















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Athene

Effective October 1, 2018, we entered into a modified coinsurance agreement with Athene Holding Ltd. (“Athene”) to reinsure fixed annuity products, which resulted in a deposit asset of $2.7 billion and $3.8 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. We held assets in support of reserves associated with the Athene transaction in a modified coinsurance investment portfolio, which consisted of the following (in millions):

As of December 31,
20232022
Fixed maturity AFS securities$177 $474 
Trading securities1,556 2,644 
Equity securities58 60 
Mortgage loans on real estate288 487 
Derivative investments43 39 
Other investments41 42 
Cash and invested cash582 26 
Accrued investment income23 35 
Other assets
Total$2,774 $3,809 

The portfolio was supported by $77 million of over-collateralization and a $83 million letter of credit as of December 31, 2023. Additionally, we recorded a deferred gain on business sold through reinsurance related to the transaction with Athene and amortized $33 million, $25 million and $26 million of the gain during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. See “Realized Gain (Loss)” in Note 21 for information on reinsurance-related embedded derivatives.

Swiss Re

Our reinsurance operations were acquired by Swiss Re in December 2001 through a series of indemnity reinsurance transactions. As such, Swiss Re reinsured certain liabilities and obligations under the indemnity reinsurance agreements. As we are not relieved of our liability to the ceding companies for this business, the liabilities and obligations associated with the reinsured policies remain on the Consolidated Balance Sheets with a corresponding reinsurance recoverable from Swiss Re, which totaled $1.6 billion as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Swiss Re has funded a trust, with a balance of $656 million and $710 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, to support this business. In addition to various remedies that we would have in the event of a default by Swiss Re, we continue to hold assets in support of certain of the transferred reserves. These assets consist of those reported as trading securities and certain mortgage loans.

Credit Losses on Reinsurance-Related Assets

In connection with our recognition of an allowance for credit losses for reinsurance-related assets, we perform a quantitative analysis using a probability of loss approach to estimate expected credit losses for reinsurance recoverables, inclusive of similar assets recognized using the deposit method of accounting. Our allowance for credit losses was $76 million and $315 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The decrease was primarily attributable to the release of the allowance for credit losses related to a third-party reinsurer, Scottish Re (U.S.) Inc. (“Scottish Re”), where liquidation proceedings commenced during the third quarter of 2023. Effective September 30, 2023, reinsurance coverage terminated and all business ceded to Scottish Re was therefore recaptured. See Note 21 for additional information.

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9. Goodwill and Specifically Identifiable Intangible Assets

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill (in millions) by reportable segment were as follows:

For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
Gross
Goodwill
as of
Beginning-
of-Year
Accumulated
Impairment
as of
Beginning-
of-Year
Net
Goodwill
as of
Beginning-
of-Year
ImpairmentNet
Goodwill as
of End-
of-Year
Annuities$1,040 $(600)$440 $– $440 
Group Protection684 – 684 – 684 
Retirement Plan Services20 – 20 – 20 
Total goodwill$1,744 $(600)$1,144 $– $1,144 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Gross
Goodwill
as of
Beginning-
of-Year
Accumulated
Impairment
as of
Beginning-
of-Year
Net
Goodwill
as of
Beginning-
of-Year
ImpairmentNet
Goodwill as
of End-
of-Year
Annuities$1,040 $(600)$440 $– $440 
Life Insurance2,186 (1,552)634 (634)– 
Group Protection684 – 684 – 684 
Retirement Plan Services20 – 20 – 20 
Total goodwill$3,930 $(2,152)$1,778 $(634)$1,144 

The fair values of our reporting units (Level 3 fair value estimates) are comprised of the value of in-force (i.e., existing) business and the value of new business. Specifically, new business is representative of cash flows and profitability associated with policies or contracts we expect to issue in the future, reflecting our forecasts of future sales volume and product mix over a 10-year period. To determine the values of in-force and new business, we use a discounted cash flows technique that applies a discount rate reflecting the market expected, weighted-average rate of return adjusted for the risk factors associated with operations to the projected future cash flows for each reporting unit.

2023 Analysis

As of October 1, 2023, we performed our annual quantitative goodwill impairment test for our Annuities, Group Protection and Retirement Plan Services reporting units, and, as of such date, the fair value was in excess of each reporting unit’s carrying value.

2022 Analysis

As a result of the capital market environment during the third quarter of 2022, including (i) declining equity markets and (ii) the impact of rising interest rates on our discount rate assumption, we accelerated our quantitative goodwill impairment test for our Life Insurance reporting unit as we concluded that there were indicators of impairment. Based on this quantitative test, which included updating our best estimate assumptions therein, we incurred an impairment during the third quarter of 2022 of the Life Insurance reporting unit goodwill of $634 million, which represented a write-off of the entire balance of goodwill for the reporting unit.

As of October 1, 2022, we performed our annual quantitative goodwill impairment test for our other reporting units, and, as of such date, the fair value was in excess of the carrying value for each of the Annuities, Group Protection and Retirement Plan Services reporting units.

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The gross carrying amounts and accumulated amortization (in millions) for each major specifically identifiable intangible asset class by reportable segment were as follows:

As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Life Insurance:
Sales force$100 $71 $100 $67 
Group Protection:
VOCRA576 145 576 115 
VODA31 12 31 10 
Retirement Plan Services:
Mutual fund contract rights (1)
– – 
Total$712 $228 $712 $192 

(1 ) No amortization recorded as the intangible asset has indefinite life.



Future estimated amortization of specifically identifiable intangible assets (in millions) as of December 31, 2023, was as follows:

2024$37 
202537 
202637 
202737 
202837 
Thereafter294 

10. MRBs

The following table reconciles MRBs (in millions) to MRB assets and MRB liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
AssetsLiabilitiesNet (Assets) LiabilitiesAssetsLiabilitiesNet (Assets) Liabilities
Variable Annuities$3,763 $1,583 $(2,180)$2,666 $2,004 $(662)
Fixed Annuities96 128 32 117 72 (45)
Retirement Plan Services35 (30)24 (22)
Total MRBs$3,894 $1,716 $(2,178)$2,807 $2,078 $(729)

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The following table summarizes the balances of and changes in net MRB (assets) liabilities (in millions):

As of or For the Year Ended
December 31, 2023
As of or For the Year Ended
December 31, 2022
Variable AnnuitiesFixed AnnuitiesRetirement Plan ServicesVariable AnnuitiesFixed AnnuitiesRetirement Plan Services
Balance as of beginning-of-year$(662)$(45)$(22)$2,398 $114 $(1)
Less: Effect of cumulative changes in
non-performance risk(2,173)(40)(2)(2,425)(44)(13)
Balance as of beginning-of-year, before the effect
of changes in non-performance risk1,511 (5)(20)4,823 158 12 
Issuances– – 12 – (3)
Attributed fees collected1,497 32 1,571 32 
Benefit payments(64)– – (63)– – 
Effect of changes in interest rates(110)(24)(9,346)(232)(55)
Effect of changes in equity markets (3,167)(12)(13)4,293 12 18 
Effect of changes in equity index volatility(593)(3)(225)14 (1)
In-force updates and other changes in MRBs (1)
136 661 10 
Effect of assumption review:
Effect of changes in future expected
policyholder behavior(33)70 – (158)– 
Effect of changes in other future expected
assumptions (2)
(66)15 (2)(57)– – 
Balance as of end-of-year, before the effect of
changes in non-performance risk(881)90 (26)1,511 (5)(20)
Effect of cumulative changes in
non-performance risk(1,299)(58)(4)(2,173)(40)(2)
Balance as of end-of-year(2,180)32 (30)(662)(45)(22)
Less: ceded MRB assets (liabilities)(870)– (5)294 – – 
Balance as of end-of-year, net of reinsurance$(1,310)$32 $(25)$(956)$(45)$(22)
Weighted-average age of policyholders (years)726863716863
Net amount at risk (3)
$3,031 $203 $$7,974 $171 $15 

(1) Consists primarily of changes in MRB assets and liabilities related to differences between separate account fund performance and modeled indices and other changes such as actual to expected policyholder behavior.
(2) Consists primarily of the update of fund mapping, volatility and other capital market assumptions.
(3) Net amount at risk (“NAR”) is the current guaranteed minimum benefit in excess of the current account balance as of the balance sheet date. For GLBs, the guaranteed minimum benefit is calculated based on the present value of GLB payments. Our variable annuity products may offer more than one type of guaranteed benefit rider to a policyholder. In instances where more than one guaranteed benefit feature exists in a contract, the guaranteed benefit rider that provides the highest NAR is used in the calculation.

Effect of Assumption Review

For the year ended December 31, 2023, Variable Annuities had a favorable impact to net income (loss) attributable to the annual assumption review from updates to volatility and policyholder GLB utilization behavior assumptions, partially offset by unfavorable impacts from updates to mortality and policyholder lapse behavior assumptions. For the year ended December 31, 2023, Fixed Annuities had an unfavorable impact to net income (loss) attributable to the annual assumption review from updates to mortality and policyholder GLB utilization and lapse behavior assumptions. Retirement Plan Services did not have any significant assumption updates.

For the year ended December 31, 2022, Variable Annuities had a favorable impact to net income (loss) attributable to the annual assumption review from updates to policyholder benefit utilization behavior and fund mapping and volatility assumptions. Fixed Annuities and Retirement Plan Services did not have any significant assumption updates.

See “MRBs” in Note 1 and Note 15 for details related to our fair value judgments, assumptions, inputs and valuation methodology.
63


11. Separate Accounts

The following table presents the fair value of separate account assets (in millions) reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets by major investment category:

As of December 31,
20232022
Mutual funds and collective investment trusts$157,578 $142,892 
Exchange-traded funds350 258 
Fixed maturity AFS securities167 169 
Cash and invested cash25 98 
Other investments137 119 
Total separate account assets$158,257 $143,536 

The following table reconciles separate account liabilities (in millions) to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

As of December 31,
20232022
Variable Annuities$113,356 $105,573 
UL and Other25,150 20,920 
Retirement Plan Services19,699 16,996 
Other Operations (1)
52 47 
Total separate account liabilities$158,257 $143,536 

(1) Represents separate account liabilities reported in Other Operations primarily attributable to the indemnity reinsurance agreements
with Protective ($46 million and $42 million as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively) that are excluded from the following tables.

The following table summarizes the balances of and changes in separate account liabilities (in millions):
As of or For the Year Ended
December 31, 2023
As of or For the Year Ended
December 31, 2022
Variable AnnuitiesUL and OtherRetirement Plan ServicesVariable AnnuitiesUL and OtherRetirement Plan Services
Balance as of beginning-of-year$105,573 $20,920 $16,996 $136,665 $24,785 $21,068 
Gross deposits2,982 1,630 2,222 3,371 1,900 2,378 
Withdrawals(10,177)(313)(2,527)(9,238)(454)(2,378)
Policyholder assessments(2,510)(964)(163)(2,603)(938)(164)
Change in market performance16,870 3,973 3,221 (23,194)(4,371)(3,710)
Net transfers from (to) general account618 (96)(50)572 (2)(198)
Balance as of end-of-year$113,356 $25,150 $19,699 $105,573 $20,920 $16,996 
Cash surrender value$111,928 $22,760 $19,684 $103,987 $18,666 $16,982 

64


12. Policyholder Account Balances

The following table reconciles policyholder account balances (in millions) to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

As of December 31,
20232022
Variable Annuities$29,141 $22,184 
Fixed Annuities25,330 23,338 
UL and Other36,784 37,258 
Retirement Plan Services23,784 25,138 
Other (1)
5,277 6,054 
Total policyholder account balances$120,316 $113,972 

(1) Represents policyholder account balances reported primarily in Other Operations attributable to the indemnity reinsurance agreements with Protective ($4.9 billion and $5.7 billion as of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively) that are excluded from the following tables.

The following table summarizes the balances and changes in policyholder account balances (in millions):


As of or For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
Variable AnnuitiesFixed AnnuitiesUL and OtherRetirement
Plan
Services
Balance as of beginning-of-year$22,184$23,338$37,258$25,138
Gross deposits4,7095,1303,7392,776
Withdrawals(742)(3,926)(1,430)(4,494)
Policyholder assessments(1)(56)(4,464)(14)
Net transfers from (to) separate account(427)97(295)
Interest credited5486421,463673
Change in fair value of embedded derivative
instruments2,870202121
Balance as of end-of-year$29,141$25,330$36,784$23,784
Weighted-average crediting rate2.1 %2.7 %4.0 %2.7 %
Net amount at risk (1)(2)
$3,031$203$300,994$4
Cash surrender value27,97524,32432,58523,765
65



As of or For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Variable AnnuitiesFixed AnnuitiesUL and OtherRetirement
Plan
Services
Balance as of beginning-of-year$19,148 $22,522 $37,719 $23,579 
Gross deposits5,178 3,284 3,905 4,012 
Withdrawals(417)(2,511)(1,215)(3,579)
Policyholder assessments(2)(51)(4,446)(13)
Net transfers from (to) separate account(492)– 510 
Interest credited287 532 1,476 629 
Change in fair value of embedded derivative
instruments(1,518)(438)(183)– 
Balance as of end-of-year$22,184 $23,338 $37,258 $25,138 
Weighted-average crediting rate1.4 %2.4 %3.9 %2.6 %
Net amount at risk (1)(2)
$7,974 $171 $302,481 $15 
Cash surrender value21,147 22,502 33,130 25,133 

(1) NAR is the current guaranteed minimum benefit in excess of the current account balance as of the balance sheet date. For GLBs, the guaranteed minimum benefit is calculated based on the present value of GLB payments. Our variable annuity products may offer more than one type of guaranteed benefit rider to a policyholder. In instances where more than one guaranteed benefit rider exists in a contract, the guaranteed benefit rider that provides the highest NAR is used in the calculation.
(2) Calculation is based on total account balances and includes both policyholder account balances and separate account balances.

66


The following table presents policyholder account balances (in millions) by range of guaranteed minimum crediting rates and the related range of difference, in basis points, between the interest being credited to policyholders and the respective guaranteed contract minimums:

As of December 31, 2023
At
Guaranteed
Minimum
1-50
Basis
Points
Above
51-100
Basis
Points
Above
101-150
Basis
Points
Above
Greater
Than 150
Basis
Points
Above
Total
Range of Guaranteed
Minimum Crediting Rate
Variable Annuities
Up to 1.00%
$– $– $– $– $– $– 
1.01% - 2.00%
– – – 12 
2.01% - 3.00%
576 – – – – 576 
3.01% - 4.00%
1,370 – – – – 1,370 
4.01% and above
10 – – – – 10 
Other (1)
– – – – – 27,173 
Total$1,961 $– $– $– $$29,141 
Fixed Annuities
Up to 1.00%
$696 $511 $546 $505 $2,429 $4,687 
1.01% - 2.00%
426 97 235 527 3,081 4,366 
2.01% - 3.00%
1,805 35 – 18 1,864 
3.01% - 4.00%
903 – – – – 903 
4.01% and above
180 – – – – 180 
Other (1)
– – – – – 13,330 
Total$4,010 $643 $787 $1,032 $5,528 $25,330 
UL and Other
Up to 1.00%
$275 $– $195 $121 $352 $943 
1.01% - 2.00%
557 – – – 3,125 3,682 
2.01% - 3.00%
6,925 11 148 – – 7,084 
3.01% - 4.00%
15,202 – – – 15,203 
4.01% and above
3,730 – – – – 3,730 
Other (1)
– – – – – 6,142 
Total$26,689 $11 $344 $121 $3,477 $36,784 
Retirement Plan Services
Up to 1.00%
$452 $569 $744 $4,904 $2,979 $9,648 
1.01% - 2.00%
550 2,065 1,575 832 – 5,022 
2.01% - 3.00%
2,492 – – – – 2,492 
3.01% - 4.00%
5,012 – – – – 5,012 
4.01% and above
1,610 – – – – 1,610 
Total$10,116 $2,634 $2,319 $5,736 $2,979 $23,784 

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As of December 31, 2022
At
Guaranteed
Minimum
1-50
Basis
Points
Above
51-100
Basis
Points
Above
101-150
Basis
Points
Above
Greater
Than 150
Basis
Points
Above
Total
Range of Guaranteed
Minimum Crediting Rate
Variable Annuities
Up to 1.00%
$– $– $– $– $– $– 
1.01% - 2.00%
– – – 12 
2.01% - 3.00%
658 – – – – 658 
3.01% - 4.00%
1,545 – – – – 1,545 
4.01% and above
11 – – – – 11 
Other (1)
– – – – – 19,958 
Total$2,218 $– $– $$– $22,184 
Fixed Annuities
Up to 1.00%
$891 $497 $589 $563 $1,329 $3,869 
1.01% - 2.00%
544 144 179 492 1,057 2,416 
2.01% - 3.00%
1,973 – – 1,979 
3.01% - 4.00%
1,326 – – – – 1,326 
4.01% and above
193 – – – – 193 
Other (1)
– – – – – 13,555 
Total$4,927 $646 $769 $1,055 $2,386 $23,338 
UL and Other
Up to 1.00%
$318 $– $194 $29 $292 $833 
1.01% - 2.00%
558 – – – 3,282 3,840 
2.01% - 3.00%
7,218 156 – – – 7,374 
3.01% - 4.00%
15,858 – – – 15,859 
4.01% and above
3,824 – – – – 3,824 
Other (1)
– – – – – 5,528 
Total$27,776 $156 $195 $29 $3,574 $37,258 
Retirement Plan Services
Up to 1.00%
$961 $1,001 $4,304 $1,703 $1,908 $9,877 
1.01% - 2.00%
1,774 2,197 982 462 – 5,415 
2.01% - 3.00%
2,711 – – – 2,712 
3.01% - 4.00%
5,622 – – – 5,623 
4.01% and above
1,511 – – – – 1,511 
Total$12,579 $3,200 $5,286 $2,165 $1,908 $25,138 

(1) Consists of indexed account balances that include the fair value of embedded derivative instruments, payout annuity account balances, short-term dollar cost averaging annuities business and policy loans.


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13. Future Contract Benefits

The following table reconciles future contract benefits (in millions) to the Consolidated Balance Sheets:

As of December 31,
20232022
Payout Annuities (1)
$2,084 $2,003 
Traditional Life (1)
3,553 3,190 
Group Protection (2)
5,689 5,462 
UL and Other (3)
15,752 14,777 
Other Operations (4)
9,753 9,651 
Other (5)
3,343 3,219 
Total future contract benefits$40,174 $38,302 

(1) See “LFPB” below for further information.
(2) See “Liability for Future Claims” below for further information.
(3) See “Additional Liabilities for Other Insurance Benefits” below for further information.
(4) Represents future contract benefits reported in Other Operations primarily attributable to the indemnity reinsurance agreements with Protective ($5.6 billion and $5.4 billion as of December 31, 2023, and December 31, 2022, respectively) and Swiss Re ($2.1 billion and $2.2 billion as of December 31, 2023, and December 31, 2022, respectively) that are excluded from the following tables.
(5) Represents other miscellaneous reserves that are not representative of long-duration contracts and are excluded from the following tables.

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LFPB

The following table summarizes the balances of and changes in the present values of expected net premiums and LFPB (in millions, except years):

As of or For the Year Ended December 31, 2023As of or For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
Payout AnnuitiesTraditional LifePayout AnnuitiesTraditional Life
Present Value of Expected Net Premiums
Balance as of beginning-of-year$– $5,896 $– $6,610 
Less: Effect of cumulative changes in discount
rate assumptions– (584)– 843 
Beginning balance at original discount rate– 6,480 – 5,767 
Effect of changes in cash flow assumptions– (5)– (382)
Effect of actual variances from expected experience– (275)– (21)
Adjusted balance as of beginning-of-year– 6,200 – 5,364 
Issuances– 580 – 1,655 
Interest accrual– 236 – 209 
Net premiums collected– (784)– (742)
Flooring impact of LFPB– – (6)
Ending balance at original discount rate– 6,236 – 6,480 
Effect of cumulative changes in discount rate assumptions– (152)– (584)
Balance as of end-of-year$– $6,084 $– $5,896 
Present Value of Expected LFPB
Balance as of beginning-of-year$2,003 $9,086 $2,511 $10,353 
Less: Effect of cumulative changes in discount
rate assumptions(263)(793)266 1,460 
Beginning balance at original discount rate (1)
2,266 9,879 2,245 8,893 
Effect of changes in cash flow assumptions– (21)– (321)
Effect of actual variances from expected experience(305)(5)
Adjusted balance as of beginning-of-year2,267 9,553 2,248 8,567 
Issuances109 580 122 1,655 
Interest accrual86 364 84 326 
Benefit payments(191)(658)(188)(669)
Ending balance at original discount rate (1)
2,271 9,839 2,266 9,879 
Effect of cumulative changes in discount rate assumptions(187)(202)(263)(793)
Balance as of end-of-year$2,084 $9,637 $2,003 $9,086 
Net balance as of end-of-year$2,084 $3,553 $2,003 $3,190 
Less: reinsurance recoverables (2)
1,627 255 10 270 
Net balance as of end-of-year, net of reinsurance$457 $3,298 $1,993 $2,920 
Weighted-average duration of future policyholder
benefit liability (years)910911

(1) Includes DPL within Payout Annuities of $56 million, $38 million and $22 million as of December 31, 2023, December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively.
(2)    Increase in Payout Annuities reinsurance recoverables driven by the reinsurance agreement with Fortitude Re effective October 1, 2023 for certain blocks of in-force life-contingent payout fixed annuities. See Note 8 for more information on the transaction.

For the year ended December 31, 2023, Payout Annuities did not have any significant assumption updates. For the year ended December 31, 2023, Traditional Life had a favorable cash flow assumption impact from updates to mortality assumptions, partially offset by an unfavorable impact from updates to policyholder lapse behavior assumptions. For the year ended December 31, 2023, Payout Annuities and Traditional Life did not have any significantly different actual experience compared to expected.

70


For the year ended December 31, 2022, Payout Annuities did not have any significant assumption updates. Traditional Life had an unfavorable cash flow assumption impact to net income (loss) attributable to the annual assumption review from updates to mortality and lapse assumptions resulting in lower projected premiums and benefits, and a corresponding increase in reserves. For the year ended December 31, 2022, Payout Annuities and Traditional Life did not have any significantly different actual experience compared to expected.

The following table summarizes the discounted and undiscounted expected future gross premiums and expected future benefit payments (in millions):

As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
UndiscountedDiscountedUndiscountedDiscounted
Payout Annuities
Expected future gross premiums$– $– $– $– 
Expected future benefit payments3,481 2,084 3,471 2,003 
Traditional Life
Expected future gross premiums13,406 9,341 13,166 8,887 
Expected future benefit payments13,404 9,637 13,026 9,086 

The following table summarizes the gross premiums and interest accretion (in millions) recognized in insurance premiums and benefits, respectively, on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Payout Annuities
Gross premiums$116 $133 $95 
Interest accretion86 84 84 
Traditional Life
Gross premiums1,183 1,136 1,022 
Interest accretion128 117 113 

The following table summarizes the weighted-average interest rates:

For the Years Ended
December 31,
20232022
Payout Annuities
Interest accretion rate3.9 %3.9 %
Current discount rate4.9 %5.3 %
Traditional Life
Interest accretion rate5.0 %5.0 %
Current discount rate4.7 %5.1 %

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Liability for Future Claims

The following table summarizes the balances of and changes in liability for future claims (in millions, except years):

Group Protection
As of or For the Years Ended December 31,
20232022
Balance as of beginning-of-year$5,462 $5,936 
Less: Effect of cumulative changes in discount
rate assumptions(597)262 
Beginning balance at original discount rate6,059 5,674 
Effect of changes in cash flow assumptions(27)15 
Effect of actual variances from expected
experience(261)(117)
Adjusted beginning-of-year balance5,771 5,572 
New incidence1,702 1,777 
Interest159 141 
Benefit payments(1,453)(1,431)
Ending balance at original discount rate6,179 6,059 
Effect of cumulative changes in discount
rate assumptions(490)(597)
Balance as of end-of-year5,689 5,462 
Less: reinsurance recoverables123 127 
Balance as of end-of-year, net of reinsurance$5,566 $5,335 
Weighted-average duration of liability for future
claims (years)54

For the year ended December 31, 2023, we had a favorable cash flow assumption impact to net income (loss) attributable to the annual assumption review from updates to long-term disability and life waiver claim termination rate assumptions, partially offset by unfavorable impacts from updates to long-term disability social security offset assumptions. For the year ended December 31, 2023, we experienced more favorable reported incidence and claim terminations than assumed.

For the year ended December 31, 2022, we had an unfavorable cash flow assumption impact to net income (loss) attributable to the annual assumption review from updates to the long-term disability incidence and severity assumptions, partially offset by favorable impacts from updates to the life waiver termination rate assumptions. For the year ended December 31, 2022, we experienced more favorable claim terminations than assumed.
The following table summarizes the discounted and undiscounted expected future benefit payments (in millions):

As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
UndiscountedDiscountedUndiscountedDiscounted
Group Protection
Expected future benefit payments$7,250 $6,179 $7,063 $6,059 

The following table summarizes the gross premiums and interest accretion (in millions) recognized in insurance premiums and benefits, respectively, on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Group Protection
Gross premiums$3,549 $3,393 $3,145 
Interest accretion159 141 145 

72


The following table summarizes the weighted-average interest rates:

For the Years Ended
December 31,
20232022
Group Protection
Interest accretion rate3.0 %2.8 %
Current discount rate4.7 %5.1 %

Additional Liabilities for Other Insurance Benefits

The following table summarizes the balances of and changes in additional liabilities for other insurance benefits (in millions, except years):

UL and Other
As of or For the Years Ended December 31,
20232022
Balance as of beginning-of-year$14,777 $12,513 
Less: Effect of cumulative changes in shadow
balance in AOCI(905)1,113 
Balance as of beginning-of-year, excluding
shadow balance in AOCI15,682 11,400 
Effect of changes in cash flow assumptions165 3,108 
Effect of actual variances from expected
experience(77)195 
Adjusted beginning-of-year balance15,770 14,703 
Issuances– 
Interest accrual765 626 
Net assessments collected658 974 
Benefit payments(588)(628)
Balance as of end-of-year, excluding
shadow balance in AOCI16,605 15,682 
Effect of cumulative changes in shadow
balance in AOCI(853)(905)
Balance as of end-of-year15,752 14,777 
Less: reinsurance recoverables (1)
9,505 1,975 
Balance as of end-of-year, net of reinsurance$6,247 $12,802 
Weighted-average duration of additional liabilities
for other insurance benefits (years)1717

(1) Increase in reinsurance recoverables driven by the reinsurance agreement with Fortitude Re effective October 1, 2023 for certain blocks of in-force ULSG. See Note 8 for more information on the transaction.

For the year ended December 31, 2023, we had an unfavorable cash flow assumption impact to net income (loss) attributable to the annual assumption review from updates to policyholder lapse behavior assumptions, partially offset by a favorable impact from updates to interest rate assumptions. For the year ended December 31, 2023, we did not have any significantly different actual experience compared to expected.

For the year ended December 31, 2022, we had an unfavorable cash flow assumption impact to net income (loss) attributable to the annual assumption review primarily from updates to policyholder lapse behavior assumptions related to UL products with secondary guarantees in the amount of 1.7 billion, net of reinsurance, after-tax, and to a lesser extent mortality and morbidity assumptions. For the year ended December 31, 2022, we had unfavorable actual mortality experience compared to expected due to ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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The following table summarizes the gross assessments and interest accretion (in millions) recognized in insurance premiums and benefits, respectively, on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
UL and Other
Gross assessments$1,221 $2,818 $3,150 
Interest accretion765 626 498 

The following table summarizes the weighted-average interest rates:

For the Years Ended
December 31,
20232022
UL and Other
Interest accretion rate5.3 %5.0 %

14. Short-Term and Long-Term Debt

Details underlying short-term and long-term debt (in millions) were as follows:
As of December 31,
20232022
Short-Term Debt
Current maturities of long-term debt$50 $— 
Short-term debt (1)
790 562 
Total short-term debt$840 $562 
Long-Term Debt, Excluding Current Portion
9.76% surplus note, due 2024
$— $50 
6.03% surplus note, due 2028
750 750 
6.56% surplus note, due 2028
500 500 
SOFR + 111 bps surplus note, due 2028
71 71 
SOFR + 226 bps surplus note, due 2028
544 568 
SOFR + 200 bps surplus note, due 2035
30 30 
SOFR + 155 bps surplus note, due 2037
25 25 
4.20% surplus note, due 2037
50 50 
SOFR + 100 bps surplus note, due 2037
154 154 
4.225% surplus note, due 2037
28 28 
4.00% surplus note, due 2037
30 30 
4.50% surplus note, due 2038
13 13 
Total long-term debt$2,195 $2,269 
(1) The short-term debt represents short-term notes payable to LNC.

Effective July 1, 2023, we transitioned from LIBOR to Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) as the reference rate for our variable-rate debt.










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Future principal payments due on long-term debt (in millions) as of December 31, 2023, were as follows:

2024$50 
2025– 
2026– 
2027– 
20281,865 
Thereafter330 
Total$2,245 

We issued a surplus note of $50 million to LNC in 1994. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before September 30, 2024, and interest to be paid semiannually at an annual rate of 9.76%. Subject to approval by the Commissioner, we have the right to repay the note on any March 31 or September 30.

We issued a surplus note of $500 million to LNC in 1998. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before March 31, 2028, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of 6.56%. Subject to approval by the Commissioner, LNC has the right to redeem the note for immediate repayment in total or in part once per year on the anniversary date of the note. Any payment of interest or repayment of principal may be paid only out of our statutory earnings, only if our statutory capital surplus exceeds our statutory capital as of the date of note issuance of $2.3 billion, and subject to approval by the Commissioner.

We issued a surplus note of $71 million to LNC in October 2013. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before September 24, 2028, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of SOFR + 111 bps. Subject to approval by the Commissioner, we have the right to repay the note in whole or in part prior to the maturity date, if our statutory capital surplus exceeds the sum of our surplus at closing plus any accrued but unpaid interest.

We issued a variable surplus note to a wholly-owned subsidiary of LNC in December 2013 with an initial outstanding principal amount of $287 million. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before October 1, 2028, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of SOFR + 226 bps. The outstanding principal amount as of December 31, 2023, was $544 million.

We issued a surplus note of $750 million to LNC in 1998. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before December 31, 2028, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of 6.03%. Subject to approval by the Commissioner, LNC has the right to redeem the note for immediate repayment in total or in part once per year on the anniversary date of the note. Any payment of interest or repayment of principal may be paid only out of our statutory earnings, only if our statutory capital surplus exceeds our statutory capital surplus as of the date of note issuance of $2.4 billion, and subject to approval by the Commissioner.

We issued a surplus note of $30 million to LNC in 2015. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before September 28, 2035, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of SOFR + 200 bps. Subject to approval by the Commissioner, we have the right to repay the note in whole or in part prior to the maturity date, if our statutory capital surplus exceeds the sum of our surplus at closing plus any accrued but unpaid interest.

We issued a surplus note of $25 million to LNC in July 2017. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before June 30, 2037, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of SOFR + 155 bps. Subject to approval by the Commissioner, we have the right to repay the note in whole or in part prior to the maturity date, if our statutory capital surplus exceeds the sum of our surplus at closing plus any accrued but unpaid interest.

We issued a surplus note of $50 million to LNC in October 2017. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before July 1, 2037, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of 4.20%. Subject to approval by the Commissioner, we have the right to repay the note in whole or in part prior to the maturity date, if our statutory capital surplus exceeds the sum of our surplus at closing plus any accrued but unpaid interest.

We issued a surplus note of $375 million to LNC in 2007. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before October 9, 2037, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of SOFR + 100 bps. The surplus note was amended in 2017 to include repayment terms stating subject to approval by the Commissioner, we have the right to repay the note in whole or in part prior to the maturity date, if our statutory capital surplus exceeds the sum of our surplus at closing plus any accrued but unpaid interest. The outstanding principal amount as of December 31, 2023, was $154 million due to executing our right to repay the surplus note in part to LNC.


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We issued a surplus note of $13 million to LNC in 2018. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before June 30, 2038, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of 4.50%. Subject to approval by the Commissioner, we have the right to repay the note in whole or in part prior to the maturity date, if our statutory capital surplus exceeds the sum of our surplus at closing plus any accrued but unpaid interest.

We issued a surplus note of $28 million to LNC in 2019. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before October 9, 2037, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of 4.225%. Subject to approval by the Commissioner, we have the right to repay the note in whole or in part prior to the maturity date, if our statutory capital surplus exceeds the sum of our surplus at closing plus any accrued but unpaid interest.

We issued a surplus note of $30 million to LNC in 2020. The note calls for us to pay the principal amount of the note on or before October 9, 2037, and interest to be paid quarterly at an annual rate of 4.00%. Subject to approval by the Commissioner, we have the right to repay the note in whole or in part prior to the maturity date, if our statutory capital surplus exceeds the sum of our surplus at closing plus any accrued but unpaid interest.

Credit Facilities

Credit facilities, which allow for borrowing or issuances of letters of credit (“LOCs”), (in millions) were as follows:
As of December 31, 2023
Expiration DateMaximum AvailableLOCs Issued
Credit Facilities
Five-year revolving credit facilityDecember 21, 2028$2,000 $116 
LOC facility (1)
August 26, 2031976 917 
LOC facility (1)
October 1, 2031859 859 
Total$3,835 $1,892 

(1) Our wholly-owned subsidiaries entered into irrevocable LOC facility agreements with third-party lenders supporting inter-company reinsurance agreements.

On December 21, 2023, LNC entered into a second amended and restated credit agreement with a syndicate of banks, which amended and restated our existing five-year revolving amended and restated credit agreement. The credit agreement, which is unsecured, allows for the issuance of LOCs and borrowing of up to $2.0 billion and has a commitment termination date of December 21, 2028. The LOCs under the credit facility are used primarily to satisfy reserve credit requirements of (i) LNL and LNC’s other domestic insurance companies for which reserve credit is provided by our captive reinsurance subsidiaries and LNBAR and (ii) certain ceding companies of our legacy reinsurance business.

The credit agreement, as currently in effect, contains:

Customary terms and conditions, including covenants restricting the ability of LNC and its subsidiaries to incur liens and the ability of LNC to merge or consolidate with another entity where it is not the surviving entity and dispose of all or substantially all of its assets;
Financial covenants including maintenance by LNC of a minimum consolidated net worth equal to the sum of $8.626 billion plus 50% of the aggregate net proceeds of equity issuances received by LNC or any of its subsidiaries after September 30, 2023, all as more fully set forth in the agreement; and a debt-to-capital ratio as defined in accordance with the agreement not to exceed 0.35 to 1.00;
A cap on LNC’s secured non-operating indebtedness and non-operating indebtedness of LNC’s subsidiaries equal to 7.5% of total capitalization, as defined in accordance with the agreement; and
Customary events of default, subject to certain materiality thresholds and grace periods for certain of those events of default.

Upon an event of default, the credit facility agreement, as currently in effect, provides that, among other things, the commitments may be terminated and the loans then outstanding may be declared due and payable. As of December 31, 2023, LNC was in compliance with all such covenants.

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Our LOC facility agreements each contain customary terms and conditions, including early termination fees, covenants restricting the ability of the subsidiaries to incur liens, merge or consolidate with another entity and dispose of all or substantially all of their assets. Upon an event of early termination, the agreements require the immediate payment of all or a portion of the present value of the future LOC fees that would have otherwise been paid. Further, the agreements contain customary events of default, subject to certain materiality thresholds and grace periods for certain of those events of default. The events of default include payment defaults, covenant defaults, material inaccuracies in representations and warranties, bankruptcy and liquidation proceedings and other customary defaults. Upon an event of default, the agreements provide that, among other things, obligations to issue, amend or increase the amount of any LOC shall be terminated and any obligations shall become immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2023, we were in compliance with all such covenants.
15. Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying values and estimated fair values of our financial instruments (in millions) were as follows:

As of December 31, 2023As of December 31, 2022
Carrying ValueFair ValueCarrying ValueFair Value
Assets
Fixed maturity AFS securities$82,300 $82,300 $99,465 $99,465 
Trading securities2,321 2,321 3,446 3,446 
Equity securities306 306 427 427 
Mortgage loans on real estate18,873 17,330 18,211 16,477 
Derivative investments6,305 6,305 3,519 3,519 
Other investments4,757 4,757 3,577 3,577 
Cash and invested cash3,193 3,193 2,499 2,499 
MRB assets3,894 3,894 2,807 2,807 
Other assets:
Ceded MRBs274 274 540 540 
Indexed annuity ceded embedded derivatives940 940 525 525 
LPR ceded derivative206 206 212 212 
Separate account assets158,257 158,257 143,536 143,536 
Liabilities
Policyholder account balances:
Account balances of certain investment contracts(44,615)(34,020)(43,550)(34,251)
RILA, fixed annuity and IUL contracts(9,077)(9,077)(4,783)(4,783)
Funds withheld reinsurance liabilities – reinsurance-related
embedded derivatives493 493 681 681 
MRB liabilities(1,716)(1,716)(2,078)(2,078)
Short-term debt(840)(841)(562)(562)
Long-term debt(2,195)(2,125)(2,269)(2,166)
Other liabilities:
Ceded MRBs(1,149)(1,149)(246)(246)
Derivative liabilities(356)(356)(254)(254)
Remaining guaranteed interest and similar contracts(411)(411)(574)(574)

Valuation Methodologies and Associated Inputs for Financial Instruments Not Carried at Fair Value

The following discussion outlines the methodologies and assumptions used to determine the fair value of our financial instruments not carried at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Considerable judgment is required to develop these assumptions used to measure fair value. Accordingly, the estimates shown are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that would be realized in a one-time, current market exchange of all of our financial instruments.




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Mortgage Loans on Real Estate

The fair value of mortgage loans on real estate, excluding mortgage loans accounted for using the fair value option, is established using a discounted cash flow method based on credit rating, maturity and future income. The ratings for mortgages in good standing are based on property type, location, market conditions, occupancy, debt-service coverage, loan-to-value, quality of tenancy, borrower and payment record. The fair value for impaired mortgage loans is based on the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate, the loan’s market price or the fair value of the collateral if the loan is collateral dependent. The inputs used to measure the fair value of our mortgage loans on real estate, excluding mortgage loans accounted for using the fair value option, are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.

Other Investments

The carrying value of our assets classified as other investments, excluding short-term investments, approximates fair value. Other investments includes primarily LPs and other privately held investments that are accounted for using the equity method of accounting and the carrying value is based on our proportional share of the net assets of the LPs. Other investments also includes FHLB stock carried at cost and periodically evaluated for impairment based on ultimate recovery of par value. The inputs used to measure the fair value of our LPs, other privately held investments and FHLB stock are classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy. The remaining assets in other investments include cash collateral receivables and securities that are not LPs or other privately held investments. The inputs used to measure the fair value of these assets are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.

Separate Account Assets

Separate account assets are primarily carried at fair value.  A portion of our separate account assets includes LPs, which are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. The carrying value is based on our proportional share of the net assets of the LPs and approximates fair value. The inputs used to measure the fair value of the separate account asset LPs are classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

Policyholder Account Balances

Policyholder account balances include account balances of certain investment contracts. The fair value of the account balances of certain investment contracts is based on their approximate surrender value as of the balance sheet date. The inputs used to measure the fair value of these policyholder account balances are classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

Other Liabilities

Other liabilities include remaining guaranteed interest and similar contracts. The fair value for the remaining guaranteed interest and similar contracts is estimated using discounted cash flow calculations as of the balance sheet date. These calculations are based on interest rates currently offered on similar contracts with maturities that are consistent with those remaining for the contracts being valued. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the remaining guaranteed interest and similar contracts carrying value approximated fair value. The inputs used to measure the fair value of these other liabilities are classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.
Short-Term and Long-Term Debt

The fair value of short-term and long-term debt is based on quoted market prices. The inputs used to measure the fair value of our short-term and long-term debt are classified as Level 2 within the fair value hierarchy.
















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Fair Value Option

Mortgage loans on real estate, net of allowance for credit losses, as reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, includes mortgage loans on real estate for which the fair value option was elected. The fair value option allows us to elect fair value as an alternative measurement for mortgage loans not otherwise reported at fair value. We have made these elections for certain mortgage loans associated with modified coinsurance agreements to help mitigate the inconsistency in earnings that would otherwise result from the use of embedded derivatives included with these loans. Changes in fair value are reflected in realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss). Changes in fair value due to instrument-specific credit risk are estimated using changes in credit spreads
and quality ratings for the period reported. Mortgage loans on real estate for which the fair value option was elected are valued using third-party pricing services. We have procedures in place to review the valuations each quarter to ensure they are reasonable, including utilizing a separate third party to reperform the valuation for a selection of mortgage loans on an annual basis. Due to lack of observable inputs, mortgage loans electing the fair value option are classified as Level 3 within the fair value hierarchy.

The fair value and aggregate contractual principal for mortgage loans on real estate where the fair value option was elected (in millions) were as follows:

As of December 31,
20232022
Fair value$288 $487 
Aggregate contractual principal326 514 

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, no loans for which the fair value option was elected were in non-accrual status, and none were more than 90 days past due and still accruing interest.

Financial Instruments Carried at Fair Value

We did not have any assets or liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of December 31, 2023 or 2022.
 
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The following summarizes our financial instruments carried at fair value (in millions) on a recurring basis by the fair value hierarchy levels:
As of December 31, 2023
Quoted
Prices
in Active
Markets forSignificantSignificant
IdenticalObservableUnobservableTotal
AssetsInputsInputsFair
(Level 1)(Level 2)(Level 3)Value
Assets
Investments:
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$– $57,397 $6,469 $63,866 
U.S. government bonds373 20 – 393 
State and municipal bonds– 2,537 2,542 
Foreign government bonds– 278 – 278 
RMBS– 1,589 13 1,602 
CMBS– 1,336 1,344 
ABS– 10,559 1,484 12,043 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities46 138 48 232 
Trading securities– 2,037 284 2,321 
Equity securities263 42 306 
Mortgage loans on real estate– – 288 288 
Derivative investments (1)
– 10,705 622 11,327 
Other investments – short-term investments– 233 – 233 
Cash and invested cash– 3,193 – 3,193 
MRB assets– – 3,894 3,894 
Other assets:
Ceded MRBs– – 274 274 
Indexed annuity ceded embedded derivatives– – 940 940 
LPR ceded derivative– – 206 206 
Separate account assets402 157,855 – 158,257 
Total assets$822 $248,140 $14,577 $263,539 
Liabilities
Policyholder account balances – RILA, fixed annuity
and IUL contracts$– $– $(9,077)$(9,077)
Funds withheld reinsurance liabilities –
reinsurance-related embedded derivatives– 493 – 493 
MRB liabilities– – (1,716)(1,716)
Other liabilities:
Ceded MRBs– – (1,149)(1,149)
Derivative liabilities (1)
– (4,792)(586)(5,378)
Total liabilities$– $(4,299)$(12,528)$(16,827)

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As of December 31, 2022
Quoted
Prices
in Active
Markets forSignificantSignificant
IdenticalObservableUnobservableTotal
AssetsInputsInputsFair
(Level 1)(Level 2)(Level 3)Value
Assets
Investments:
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$– $73,980 $5,186 $79,166 
U.S. government bonds332 19 – 351 
State and municipal bonds– 4,850 35 4,885 
Foreign government bonds– 311 – 311 
RMBS– 1,835 1,836 
CMBS– 1,667 – 1,667 
ABS– 9,782 1,117 10,899 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities40 261 49 350 
Trading securities– 2,865 581 3,446 
Equity securities– 274 153 427 
Mortgage loans on real estate– – 487 487 
Derivative investments (1)
– 5,929 605 6,534 
Other investments – short-term investments– 30 – 30 
Cash and invested cash– 2,499 – 2,499 
MRB assets– – 2,807 2,807 
Other assets:
Ceded MRBs– – 540 540 
Indexed annuity ceded embedded derivatives– – 525 525 
LPR ceded derivative– – 212 212 
Separate account assets412 143,124 – 143,536 
Total assets$784 $247,426 $12,298 $260,508 
Liabilities
Policyholder account balances – indexed annuity
and IUL contracts embedded derivatives$– $– $(4,783)$(4,783)
Funds withheld reinsurance liabilities –
reinsurance-related embedded derivatives– 681 – 681 
MRB liabilities– – (2,078)(2,078)
Other liabilities:
Ceded MRBs– – (246)(246)
Derivative liabilities (1)
– (2,666)(603)(3,269)
Total liabilities$– $(1,985)$(7,710)$(9,695)

(1) Derivative investment assets and liabilities are presented within the fair value hierarchy on a gross basis by derivative type and not
on a master netting basis by counterparty.
 
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The following summarizes changes to our financial instruments carried at fair value (in millions) and classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The gains and losses below may include changes in fair value due in part to observable inputs that are a component of the valuation methodology. The summary schedule excludes changes to MRB assets and MRB liabilities as these balances are rolled forward in Note 10.

For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
GainsIssuances,Transfers
Items(Losses)Sales,Into or
IncludedinMaturities,Out
BeginninginOCISettlements,ofEnding
FairNet andCalls,Level 3,Fair
ValueIncome
Other(1)
NetNetValue
Investments: (2)
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$5,186 $(17)$28 $1,284 $(12)$6,469 
State and municipal bonds35 (4)(30)– 
RMBS– – 13 
CMBS– – – (4)12 
ABS1,117 – 733 (375)1,484 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred
securities49 – (2)(2)48 
Trading securities581 17 – (313)(1)284 
Equity securities153 (19)– (98)42 
Mortgage loans on real estate487 (7)(197)– 288 
Derivative investments(13)– 16 31 36 
Other assets:
Ceded MRBs (3)
540 (266)– – – 274 
Indexed annuity ceded embedded
derivatives (4)
525 – 409 – 940 
LPR ceded derivative (5)
212 (6)– – – 206 
Policyholder account balances –
RILA, fixed annuity and IUL
contracts (4)
(4,783)(3,193)– (1,101)– (9,077)
Other liabilities – ceded MRBs (3)
(246)(903)– – – (1,149)
Total, net$3,859 $(4,405)$44 $702 $(329)$(129)

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For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
GainsIssuances,Transfers
Items(Losses)Sales,Into or
IncludedinMaturities,Out
BeginninginOCISettlements,ofEnding
FairNetandCalls,Level 3,Fair
ValueIncome
Other(1)
NetNetValue
Investments: (2)
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$8,801 $$(1,542)$592 $(2,666)$5,186 
State and municipal bonds– – (1)– 36 35 
Foreign government bonds41 – (6)(30)(5)– 
RMBS– 21 (24)
CMBS– – – 17 (17)– 
ABS870 – (113)676 (316)1,117 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred
securities90 (4)(21)(12)(4)49 
Trading securities828 (80)– (152)(15)581 
Equity securities91 52 – 25 (15)153 
Mortgage loans on real estate739 (20)(5)(227)– 487 
Derivative investments21 (6)– (15)
Other assets:
Ceded MRBs (3)
4,114 (3,574)– – – 540 
Indexed annuity ceded embedded
derivatives (4)
528 (215)– 212 – 525 
LPR ceded derivative (5)
318 (106)– – – 212 
Policyholder account balances – indexed
annuity and IUL contracts embedded
 derivatives (4)
(6,131)1,975 – (627)– (4,783)
Other liabilities – ceded MRBs (3)
(17)(229)– – – (246)
Total, net$10,296 $(2,198)$(1,693)$495 $(3,041)$3,859 

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For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
GainsIssuances,Transfers
Items(Losses)Sales,Into or
IncludedinMaturities,Out
BeginninginOCISettlements,ofEnding
FairNetandCalls,Level 3,Fair
ValueIncome
Other(1)
NetNetValue
Investments: (2)
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$7,761 $$(182)$1,189 $30 $8,801 
U.S. government bonds– – (5)– – 
Foreign government bonds74 – (11)80 (102)41 
RMBS– – (1)
CMBS(1)– (8)– 
ABS570 (9)602 (294)870 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred
securities103 – 25 (38)– 90 
Trading securities643 (3)– 210 (22)828 
Equity securities57 38 – (4)– 91 
Mortgage loans on real estate832 11 (109)– 739 
Derivative investments1,542 1,255 (3)(139)(2,634)21 
Other assets:
Ceded MRBs (3)
6,539 (2,425)– – – 4,114 
Indexed annuity ceded embedded
derivatives (4)
550 87 – (109)– 528 
LPR ceded derivative (5)
– – – – 318 318 
Policyholder account balances – indexed
annuity and IUL contracts embedded
derivatives (4)
(3,594)(2,709)– 172 – (6,131)
Other liabilities – ceded MRBs (3)
– (17)– – – (17)
Total, net$15,085 $(3,760)$(175)$1,859 $(2,713)$10,296 
(1) The changes in fair value of the interest rate swaps are offset by an adjustment to derivative investments (see Note 6).
(2) Amortization and accretion of premiums and discounts are included in net investment income on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). Gains (losses) from sales, maturities, settlements and calls and credit loss expense are included in realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
(3) Gains (losses) from the changes in fair value are included in market risk benefit gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
(4) Gains (losses) from the changes in fair value are included in realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
(5) Gains (losses) from the changes in fair value are included in benefits on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

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The following provides the components of the items included in issuances, sales, maturities, settlements and calls, net, (in millions) as reported above:

For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
IssuancesSalesMaturitiesSettlementsCallsTotal
Investments:
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$2,035 $(334)$(34)$(372)$(11)$1,284 
State and municipal bonds– (30)– – – (30)
RMBS– – – – 
CMBS– – – (4)– (4)
ABS971 (2)– (230)(6)733 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred
securities– – – – (2)(2)
Trading securities– (231)– (82)– (313)
Equity securities(99)– – – (98)
Mortgage loans on real estate– – (202)– (197)
Derivative investments19 – (3)– – 16 
Other assets – indexed annuity ceded
embedded derivatives404 – – – 409 
Policyholder account balances –
RILA, fixed annuity and IUL
contracts(1,113)– – 12 – (1,101)
Total, net$2,327 $(696)$(37)$(873)$(19)$702 

For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
IssuancesSalesMaturitiesSettlementsCallsTotal
Investments:
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$1,335 $(398)$(81)$(231)$(33)$592 
Foreign government bonds– – (30)– – (30)
RMBS21 – – – – 21 
CMBS17 – – – – 17 
ABS918 – – (235)(7)676 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred
 securities– – – – (12)(12)
Trading securities287 (229)– (210)– (152)
Equity securities34 (9)– – – 25 
Mortgage loans on real estate15 – – (242)– (227)
Other assets – indexed annuity ceded
 embedded derivatives124 – – 88 – 212 
Policyholder account balances – indexed
 annuity and IUL contracts embedded
 derivatives(710)– – 83 – (627)
Total, net$2,041 $(636)$(111)$(747)$(52)$495 

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For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
IssuancesSalesMaturitiesSettlementsCallsTotal
Investments:
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$1,861 $(110)$(109)$(423)$(30)$1,189 
U.S. government bonds– – (5)– – (5)
Foreign government bonds80 – – – – 80 
RMBS– – – – 
CMBS– – – – 
ABS835 – – (233)– 602 
Hybrid and redeemable preferred
securities12 (20)– – (30)(38)
Trading securities383 (25)– (148)– 210 
Equity securities(10)– – – (4)
Mortgage loans on real estate96 (101)(26)(78)– (109)
Derivative investments174 (124)(189)– – (139)
Other assets – indexed annuity ceded
embedded derivatives55 – – (164)– (109)
Policyholder account balances – indexed
annuity and IUL contracts embedded
derivatives(400)– – 572 – 172 
Total, net3,112 (390)(329)(474)(60)1,859 

The following summarizes changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in net income related to financial instruments carried at fair value classified within Level 3 that we still held (in millions):

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Trading securities (1)
$$(81)$
Equity securities (1)
(16)54 40 
Mortgage loans on real estate (1)
(8)(20)12 
Derivative investments (1)
1,051 
MRBs (2)
1,071 (359)1,530 
Other assets – LPR ceded derivative (3)
(6)(106)– 
Embedded derivatives - indexed annuity
 and IUL contracts (1)
(20)(95)44 
Total, net$1,030 $(605)$2,681 
(1) Included in realized gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
(2) Included in market risk benefit gain (loss) on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
(3) Included in benefits on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
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The following summarizes changes in unrealized gains (losses) included in OCI, net of tax, related to financial instruments carried at fair value classified within Level 3 that we still held (in millions):

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$$(1,553)$(183)
State and municipal bonds(1)– 
Foreign government bonds– (7)(10)
ABS(115)(9)
Hybrid and redeemable preferred
securities(1)(21)26 
Mortgage loans on real estate(5)
Total, net$16 $(1,702)$(172)

The following provides the components of the transfers into and out of Level 3 (in millions) as reported above:
For the Year Ended December 31, 2023
TransfersTransfers
IntoOut of
Level 3Level 3Total
Investments:
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$194 $(206)$(12)
RMBS12 (5)
CMBS12 – 12 
ABS(377)(375)
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities16 (13)
Trading securities(7)(1)
Equity securities– 
Derivative investments31 – 31 
Total, net$279 $(608)$(329)

For the Year Ended December 31, 2022
TransfersTransfers
IntoOut of
Level 3Level 3Total
Investments:
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$296 $(2,962)$(2,666)
State and municipal bonds36 – 36 
Foreign government bonds– (5)(5)
RMBS– (24)(24)
CMBS– (17)(17)
ABS16 (332)(316)
Hybrid and redeemable preferred securities– (4)(4)
Trading securities(19)(15)
Equity securities– (15)(15)
Derivative investments– (15)(15)
Total, net$352 $(3,393)$(3,041)

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For the Year Ended December 31, 2021
TransfersTransfers
IntoOut of
Level 3Level 3Total
Investments:
Fixed maturity AFS securities:
Corporate bonds$164 $(134)$30 
Foreign government bonds– (102)(102)
RMBS– (1)(1)
CMBS– (8)(8)
ABS36 (330)(294)
Trading securities12 (34)(22)
Derivative investments24 (2,658)(2,634)
Other assets – LPR ceded derivative318 – 318 
Total, net$554 $(3,267)$(2,713)

Transfers into and out of Level 3 are generally the result of observable market information on financial instruments no longer being available or becoming available to our pricing vendors. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, transfers in and out of Level 3 were attributable primarily to the financial instruments’ observable market information no longer being available or becoming available. In 2022,transfers out of Level 3 included corporate bonds and ABS for which we changed valuation techniques. This change in valuation technique was primarily from a change to a third-party-provided pricing model that did not use significant unobservable inputs. In 2021, transfers out of Level 3 included derivative instruments for which we changed valuation techniques. This change in valuation technique was primarily from unobservable inputs in counterparty models to a mathematical model provided by a third party. These updated valuation techniques are considered industry standard and provide us with greater visibility into the economic valuation inputs.

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The following summarizes the fair value (in millions), valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs of the Level 3 fair value measurements as of December 31, 2023:
Weighted
FairValuationSignificantAssumption orAverage Input
ValueTechniqueUnobservable InputsInput Ranges
Range (1)
Assets
Investments:
Fixed maturity AFS and
trading securities:
Corporate bonds$183 Discounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
(0.2)%– 3.7 %2.1 %
State and municipal
bondsDiscounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
0.9 %– 2.2 %2.1 %
CMBSDiscounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
2.3 %– 2.3 %2.3 %
ABS12 Discounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
1.8 %– 1.8 %1.8 %
Hybrid and redeemable
preferred securitiesDiscounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
1.4 %– 1.5 %1.5 %
Equity securitiesDiscounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
4.5 %– 4.5 %4.5 %
MRB assets3,894 
Other assets – ceded MRBs274 Discounted cash flow
Lapse (3)
%– 30 %
(10)
Utilization of GLB withdrawals (4)
85 %– 100 %94 %
Claims utilization factor (5)
60 %– 100 %
(10)
Premiums utilization factor (5)
80 %– 115 %
(10)
Non-performance risk (6)
0.51 %– 2.13 %1.78 %
Mortality (7)
(9)
(10)
Volatility (8)
%– 29 %13.92 %
Other assets – indexed
annuity ceded embedded
derivatives940 Discounted cash flow
Lapse (3)
0 %– %
(10)
Mortality (7)
(9)
(10)
Other assets – LPR ceded
derivative206 Discounted cash flow
Lapse (3)
0.1 %– 2.00 %
(10)
Non-performance risk (6)
0.51 %– 2.13 %1.58 %
Mortality (7)
(9)
(10)
Liabilities
Policyholder account
balances – indexed annuity
contracts embedded
derivatives$(9,013)Discounted cash flow
Lapse (3)
0 %– %
(10)
Mortality (7)
(9)
(10)
MRB liabilities(1,716)
Other liabilities – ceded
MRBs(1,149)Discounted cash flow
Lapse (3)
%– 30 %
(10)
Utilization of GLB withdrawals (4)
85 %– 100 %94 %
Claims utilization factor (5)
60 %– 100 %
(10)
Premiums utilization factor (5)
80 %– 115 %
(10)
Non-performance risk (6)
0.51 %– 2.13 %1.78 %
Mortality (7)
(9)
(10)
Volatility (8)
%– 29 %13.92 %
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The following summarizes the fair value (in millions), valuation techniques and significant unobservable inputs of the Level 3 fair value measurements as of December 31, 2022:

Weighted
FairValuationSignificantAssumption orAverage Input
ValueTechniqueUnobservable InputsInput Ranges
Range (1)
Assets
Investments:
Fixed maturity AFS and
trading securities:
Corporate bonds$201 Discounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
(0.2)%– 4.2 %2.1 %
State and municipal
bonds35 Discounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
1.2 %– 2.4 %2.3 %
ABS15 Discounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
1.4 %– 1.4 %1.4 %
Hybrid and redeemable
 preferred securitiesDiscounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
1.5 %– 1.5 %1.5 %
Equity securitiesDiscounted cash flow
Liquidity/duration adjustment (2)
4.5 %– 4.5 %4.5 %
MRB assets2,807 
Other assets – ceded MRBs540 Discounted cash flow
Lapse (3)
%– 30 %
(10)
Utilization of GLB withdrawals (4)
85 %– 100 %94 %
Claims utilization factor (5)
60 %– 100 %
(10)
Premiums utilization factor (5)
80 %– 115 %
(10)
Non-performance risk (6)
0.35 %– 2.41 %1.73 %
Mortality (7)
(9)
(10)
Volatility (8)
%– 28 %14.47 %
Other assets – indexed
annuity ceded embedded
derivatives525 Discounted cash flow
Lapse (3)
0 %– %
(10)
Mortality (7)
(9)
(10)
Other assets – LPR ceded
derivative212 Discounted cash flow
Lapse (3)
0 %– 1.55 %
(10)
Non-performance risk (6)
0.35 %– 2.41 %1.75 %
Mortality (7)
(9)
(10)
Liabilities
Policyholder account
balances – indexed annuity
contracts embedded
derivatives$(4,845)Discounted cash flow
Lapse (3)
0 %– %
(10)
Mortality (7)
(9)
(10)
MRB liabilities(2,078)
Other liabilities – ceded
MRBs(246)Discounted cash flow
Lapse (3)
%– 30 %
(10)
Utilization of GLB withdrawals (4)
85 %– 100 %94 %
Claims utilization factor (5)
60 %– 100 %
(10)
Premiums utilization factor (5)
80 %– 115 %
(10)
Non-performance risk (6)
0.35 %– 2.41 %1.73 %
Mortality (7)
(9)
(10)
Volatility (8)
%– 28 %14.47 %
(1) Unobservable inputs were weighted by the relative fair value of the instruments, unless otherwise noted.
(2) The liquidity/duration adjustment input represents an estimated market participant composite of adjustments attributable to liquidity premiums, expected durations, structures and credit quality that would be applied to the market observable information of an investment.
(3) The lapse input represents the estimated probability of a contract surrendering during a year, and thereby forgoing any future
benefits. The range for indexed annuity contracts represents the lapses during the surrender charge period.
(4) The utilization of GLB withdrawals input represents the estimated percentage of policyholders that utilize the GLB withdrawal riders.
(5) The utilization factors are applied to the present value of claims or premiums, as appropriate, in the MRB calculation to estimate the
impact of inefficient GLB withdrawal behavior, including taking less than or more than the maximum GLB withdrawal.
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(6) The non-performance risk input represents the estimated additional credit spread that market participants would apply to the market
observable discount rate when pricing a contract. The non-performance risk input was weighted by the absolute value of the sensitivity of the reserve to the non-performance risk assumption. The non-performance risk input for LPR ceded derivative was weighted using a simple average.
(7) The mortality input represents the estimated probability of when an individual belonging to a particular group, categorized according
to age or some other factor such as gender, will die.
(8) The volatility input represents overall volatilities assumed for the underlying variable annuity funds, which include a mixture of equity
and fixed-income assets. Volatility assumptions vary by fund due to the benchmarking of different indices. The volatility input was
weighted by the relative account balance assigned to each index.
(9) The mortality is based on a combination of company and industry experience, adjusted for improvement factors.
(10) A weighted average input range is not a meaningful measurement for lapse, utilization factors or mortality.

From the table above, we have excluded Level 3 fair value measurements obtained from independent, third-party pricing sources. We do not develop the significant inputs used to measure the fair value of these assets and liabilities, and the information regarding the significant inputs is not readily available to us. Independent broker-quoted fair values are non-binding quotes developed by market makers or broker-dealers obtained from third-party sources recognized as market participants. The fair value of a broker-quoted asset or liability is based solely on the receipt of an updated quote from a single market maker or a broker-dealer recognized as a market participant as we do not adjust broker quotes when used as the fair value measurement for an asset or liability. Significant increases or decreases in any of the quotes received from a third-party broker-dealer may result in a significantly higher or lower fair value measurement.

Changes in any of the significant inputs presented in the table above would have resulted in a significant change in the fair value measurement of the asset or liability as follows:

Investments – An increase in the liquidity/duration adjustment input would have resulted in a decrease in the fair value measurement.
Indexed annuity contracts embedded derivatives – For direct embedded derivatives, an increase in the lapse or mortality inputs would have resulted in a decrease in the fair value measurement.
LPR ceded derivative – Assuming our LPR ceded derivative is in an asset position: an increase in our lapse, non-performance risk or mortality inputs would have resulted in an increase in the fair value measurement.
MRBs – Assuming our MRBs are in a liability position: an increase in our lapse, non-performance risk or mortality inputs would have resulted in a decrease in the fair value measurement, except for policies with GDB riders only, in which case an increase in mortality inputs would have resulted in an increase in the fair value measurement.

For each category discussed above, the unobservable inputs are not inter-related; therefore, a directional change in one input would not have affected the other inputs.

As part of our ongoing valuation process, we assess the reasonableness of our valuation techniques or models and make adjustments as necessary. For more information, see Note 1.

Investments – An increase in the liquidity/duration adjustment input would have resulted in a decrease in the fair value measurement.
Indexed annuity contracts embedded derivatives – For direct embedded derivatives, an increase in the lapse or mortality inputs would have resulted in a decrease in the fair value measurement.
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16. Retirement and Deferred Compensation Plans

Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans

We maintain defined benefit pension plans in which certain agents are participants. These defined benefit pension plans are closed to new entrants and existing participants do not accrue any additional benefits. We comply with applicable minimum funding requirements. In accordance with such practice, we were not required to make contributions for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. We do not expect to be required to make any contributions to these pension plans in 2024. We sponsor other postretirement benefit plans that provide health care and life insurance to certain retired agents. Total net periodic cost (recovery) for these plans was $2 million, $(2) million and $1 million during 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, which was reported within commissions and other expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). In 2024, we expect the plans to make benefit payments of approximately $9 million.

Information (in millions) with respect to these plans was as follows:
As of or For the Years Ended December 31,
2023202220232022
Other Postretirement
Pension PlansBenefit Plans
Fair value of plan assets$71$77$10$9
Projected benefit obligation778266
Funded status$(6)$(5)$4$3
Amounts Recognized on the
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Other assets$$$4$3
Other liabilities(6)(5)
Net amount recognized$(6)$(5)$4$3
Weighted-Average Assumptions
Benefit obligations:
Weighted-average discount rate5.44%5.66%5.45%5.70%
Net periodic benefit cost:
Weighted-average discount rate5.62%3.07%5.70%3.73%
Expected return on plan assets6.00%5.00%6.50%6.50%

The weighted average discount rate was determined based on a corporate yield curve as of December 31, 2023, and projected benefit obligation cash flows. The expected return on plan assets was determined based on historical and expected future returns of the various asset categories, using the plans’ target plan allocation. We reevaluate these assumptions each plan year.

The following summarizes our fair value measurements of our benefit plans’ assets (in millions) on a recurring basis by asset category:
As of December 31,
20232022
Fixed maturity securities:
Corporate bonds$23 $33 
U.S. government bonds22 17 
CMBS
Common stock21 22 
Cash and invested cash
Other investments10 
Total$81 $86 

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Participation in Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans

We participate in defined benefit pension plans that are sponsored by LNC for certain employees and non-employee directors. These defined benefit pension plans are closed to new entrants, and existing participants do not accrue any additional benefits. We also participate in other postretirement benefit plans sponsored by LNC that provide health care and life insurance to certain retired employees. Our expense (benefit) for these plans was $1 million, $(35) million and $(28) million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
 
Defined Contribution Plans

We sponsor tax-qualified defined contribution plans for eligible agents that are administered in accordance with the plan documents and various limitations under section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. We also participate in defined contribution plans sponsored by LNC for eligible employees. Our expense for these plans was $114 million, $99 million and $104 million, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.

Deferred Compensation Plans

We sponsor non-qualified, unfunded, deferred compensation plans for certain current and former agents. Certain current employees participate in non-qualified, unfunded, deferred compensation plans sponsored by LNC. The results of certain notional investment options within some of the plans are hedged by total return swaps. Our expenses increase or decrease in direct proportion to the change in market value of the participants’ investment options. Participants of certain plans are able to select LNC stock as a notional investment option; however, it is not hedged by the total return swaps and is a primary source of expense volatility related to these plans. Our expense for these plans was $22 million, $12 million and $18 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. For further discussion of total return swaps related to our deferred compensation plans, see Note 6.

Information (in millions) with respect to these plans was as follows:
As of December 31,
20232022
Total liabilities (1)
$695 $623 
Investments dedicated to fund liabilities (2)
233 206 

(1) Reported in other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(2) Reported in other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.  

17. Stock-Based Incentive Compensation Plans

Our employees and agents are included in LNC’s various stock-based incentive compensation plans that provide for the issuance of stock options, performance shares and restricted stock units (“RSUs”), among other types of awards. LNC issues new shares to satisfy option exercises and vested performance shares and RSUs.

Total compensation expense (in millions) by award type for stock-based incentive compensation plans was as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Stock options$$$
Performance shares12 17 
RSUs40 33 33 
Total$59 $48 $58 
Recognized tax benefit$$11 $12 

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18. Contingencies and Commitments

Contingencies

Reinsurance Disputes

Certain reinsurers have sought rate increases on certain yearly renewable term agreements. We are disputing the requested rate increases under these agreements. We may initiate legal proceedings, as necessary, under these agreements in order to protect our contractual rights. Additionally, reinsurers have initiated, and may in the future initiate, legal proceedings against us. While this may impact the Life Insurance segment, we believe it is unlikely the outcome of these disputes would have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Regulatory and Litigation Matters

Regulatory bodies, such as state insurance departments, the SEC, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority and other regulatory bodies regularly make inquiries and conduct examinations or investigations concerning our compliance with, among other things, insurance laws, securities laws, laws governing the activities of broker-dealers, registered investment advisers and unclaimed property laws.

LNL and its affiliates are involved in various pending or threatened legal or regulatory proceedings, including purported class actions, arising from the conduct of business both in the ordinary course and otherwise. In some of the matters, very large and/or indeterminate amounts, including punitive and treble damages, are sought. Modern pleading practice in the U.S. permits considerable variation in the assertion of monetary damages or other relief. Jurisdictions may permit claimants not to specify the monetary damages sought or may permit claimants to state only that the amount sought is sufficient to invoke the jurisdiction of the trial court. In addition, jurisdictions may permit plaintiffs to allege monetary damages in amounts well exceeding verdicts obtained in the jurisdiction for similar matters. This variability in pleadings, together with the actual experiences of LNL in litigating or resolving through settlement numerous claims over an extended period of time, demonstrates to management that the monetary relief which may be specified in a lawsuit or claim bears little relevance to its merits or disposition value.

Due to the unpredictable nature of litigation, the outcome of a litigation matter and the amount or range of potential loss at particular points in time is normally difficult to ascertain. Uncertainties can include how fact finders will evaluate documentary evidence and the credibility and effectiveness of witness testimony, and how trial and appellate courts will apply the law in the context of the pleadings or evidence presented, whether by motion practice, or at trial or on appeal. Disposition valuations are also subject to the uncertainty of how opposing parties and their counsel will themselves view the relevant evidence and applicable law.

We establish liabilities for litigation and regulatory loss contingencies when information related to the loss contingencies shows both that it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. It is possible that some matters could require us to pay damages or make other expenditures or establish accruals in amounts that could not be estimated as of December 31, 2023.

For some matters, the Company is able to estimate a reasonably possible range of loss. For such matters in which a loss is probable, an accrual has been made. For such matters where a loss is believed to be reasonably possible, but not probable, no accrual has been made. Accordingly, the estimate contained in this paragraph reflects two types of matters. For some matters included within this estimate, an accrual has been made, but there is a reasonable possibility that an exposure exists in excess of the amount accrued. In these cases, the estimate reflects the reasonably possible range of loss in excess of the accrued amount. For other matters included within this estimation, no accrual has been made because a loss, while potentially estimable, is believed to be reasonably possible but not probable. In these cases, the estimate reflects the reasonably possible loss or range of loss. As of December 31, 2023, we estimate the aggregate range of reasonably possible losses, including amounts in excess of amounts accrued for these matters as of such date, to be up to approximately $190 million, after-tax. Any estimate is not an indication of expected loss, if any, or of the Company’s maximum possible loss exposure on such matters.

For other matters, we are not currently able to estimate the reasonably possible loss or range of loss. We are often unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss until developments in such matters have provided sufficient information to support an assessment of the range of possible loss, such as quantification of a damage demand from plaintiffs, discovery from other parties and investigation of factual allegations, rulings by the court on motions or appeals, analysis by experts and the progress of settlement negotiations. On a quarterly and annual basis, we review relevant information with respect to litigation contingencies and update our accruals, disclosures and estimates of reasonably possible losses or ranges of loss based on such reviews.

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Among other matters, we are presently engaged in litigation, including relating to cost of insurance rates (“Cost of Insurance and Other Litigation”), as described below. No accrual has been made for some of these matters. Although a loss is believed to be reasonably possible for these matters, for some of these matters, we are not able to estimate a reasonably possible amount or range of potential liability. An adverse outcome in one or more of these matters may have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements, but, based on information currently known, management does not believe those cases are likely to have such an impact.

Cost of Insurance and Other Litigation

Cost of Insurance Litigation

Glover v. Connecticut General Life Insurance Company and The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut, No. 3:16-cv-00827, is a putative class action that was served on LNL on June 8, 2016. Plaintiff is the owner of a universal life insurance policy who alleges that LNL charged more for non-guaranteed cost of insurance than permitted by the policy. Plaintiff seeks to represent all universal life and variable universal life policyholders who owned policies containing non-guaranteed cost of insurance provisions that are similar to those of plaintiff’s policy and seeks damages on behalf of all such policyholders. On January 11, 2019, the court dismissed plaintiff’s complaint in its entirety. In response, plaintiff filed a motion for leave to amend the complaint, which, on September 25, 2023, the court granted in part and denied in part. Plaintiff filed an amended complaint on October 10, 2023. On March 7, 2024, the parties entered into a settlement agreement, which is subject to court approval. The provisional settlement encompasses policies that are at issue in the Glover case, which also includes all policies in the lawsuits captioned TVPX ARS INC., as Securities Intermediary for Consolidated Wealth Management, LTD. v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company and Vida Longevity Fund, LP v. Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York, both of which are described below, and one additional case to which an affiliate of LNL is a party, Iwanski v. First Penn-Pacific Life Insurance Company, which has been previously disclosed by our parent company, LNC. The Glover plaintiffs’ motion for preliminary approval of the provisional settlement was filed on March 8, 2024. The provisional settlement, which is subject to both preliminary and final approval of the court, consists of a $147.5 million pre-tax cash payment for Glover class members (inclusive of all policyholders in TVPX ARS INC., Vida and Iwanski).

EFG Bank AG, Cayman Branch, et al. v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, pending in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, No. 2:17-cv-02592, is a civil action filed on February 1, 2017. Plaintiffs own universal life insurance policies originally issued by Jefferson-Pilot (now LNL). Among other things, plaintiffs allege that LNL breached the terms of policyholders’ contracts when it increased non-guaranteed cost of insurance rates beginning in 2016. We are vigorously defending this matter.

In re: Lincoln National COI Litigation, pending in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Case No. 2:16-cv-06605-GJP, is a consolidated litigation matter related to multiple putative class action cases that were consolidated by an order dated March 20, 2017. Plaintiffs purport to own certain universal life insurance policies originally issued by Jefferson-Pilot (now LNL). Among other things, plaintiffs allege that LNL and LNC breached the terms of policyholders’ contracts by increasing non-guaranteed cost of insurance rates beginning in 2016. Plaintiffs sought to represent classes of policyowners and sought damages on their behalf. On August 9, 2022, the court denied plaintiffs’ motion for class certification. The parties participated in a mediation on December 13, 2022, and subsequently reached a settlement. On January 26, 2023, the parties informed the presiding judge of a class settlement in this action, subject to final documentation and court approval. On March 24, 2023, plaintiffs filed a motion for preliminary approval of the class settlement, which was granted by the court on June 14, 2023. The provisional settlement, which was subject to both preliminary and final approval of the court, consisted of $117.75 million in pre-tax cash (in the aggregate for both this litigation and the In re: Lincoln National 2017 COI Rate Litigation matter discussed immediately below) and a five-year cost of insurance rate freeze, among other terms. After certain policyholders timely opted out or otherwise excluded themselves from the settlement class with respect to certain policies, the pre-tax cash settlement fund was reduced to $109.96 million. The court granted final approval of the settlement on October 5, 2023. On December 27, 2023, the court ordered that supplemental notice of the class settlement be mailed to a small percentage of settlement class members who had not been sent the initial class notice. Those policyholders own policies representing less than 0.14% of the total of all Policy Claim Amounts (as defined in the parties’ settlement agreement) and have until 45 days after the completion of supplemental notice to object to or opt out of the settlement. Certain of the policyholders who did not participate in the settlement are plaintiffs in Brighton Trustees, LLC, et al. v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company and Ryan K. Crayne, on behalf of and as a trustee for Carlton Peak Trust v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company discussed further below. The remaining policyholders who are not participants in the settlement may bring individual actions in the future to the extent they have not already done so.

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In re: Lincoln National 2017 COI Rate Litigation, pending in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Case No. 2:17-cv-04150, is a consolidated litigation matter related to multiple putative class action cases that were consolidated by an order dated March 28, 2018. Plaintiffs purport to own certain universal life insurance policies originally issued by Jefferson-Pilot (now LNL). Among other things, plaintiffs allege that LNL and LNC breached the terms of policyholders’ contracts by increasing non-guaranteed cost of insurance rates beginning in 2017. Plaintiffs sought to represent classes of policyholders and sought damages on their behalf. On August 9, 2022, the court denied plaintiffs’ motion for class certification. The parties participated in a mediation on December 13, 2022, and subsequently reached a settlement. On January 26, 2023, the parties informed the presiding judge of a class settlement in this action, subject to final documentation and court approval. On March 24, 2023, plaintiffs filed a motion for preliminary approval of the class settlement, which was granted by the court on June 14, 2023. The provisional settlement, which was subject to both preliminary and final approval of the court, consists of $117.75 million in pre-tax cash (in the aggregate for both this litigation and the In re: Lincoln National COI Litigation matter discussed immediately above) and a five-year cost of insurance rate freeze, among other terms. After certain policyholders timely opted out or otherwise excluded themselves from the settlement class with respect to certain policies, the pre-tax cash settlement fund was reduced to $109.96 million. The court granted final approval of the settlement on October 5, 2023. On December 27, 2023, the court ordered that supplemental notice of the class settlement be mailed to a small percentage of settlement class members who had not been sent the initial class notice. Those policyholders own policies representing less than 0.14% of the total of all Policy Claim Amounts (as defined in the parties’ settlement agreement) and have until 45 days after the completion of supplemental notice to object to or opt out of the settlement. Certain of the policyholders who did not participate in the settlement are plaintiffs in Brighton Trustees, LLC, et al. v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company and Ryan K. Crayne, on behalf of and as a trustee for Carlton Peak Trust v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company discussed further below. The remaining policyholders who are not participants in the settlement may bring individual actions in the future to the extent they have not already done so.

TVPX ARS INC., as Securities Intermediary for Consolidated Wealth Management, LTD. v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, No. 2:18-cv-02989, is a putative class action that was filed on July 17, 2018. Plaintiff alleges that LNL charged more for non-guaranteed cost of insurance than permitted by the policy. Plaintiff seeks to represent all universal life and variable universal life policyholders who own policies issued by LNL or its predecessors containing non-guaranteed cost of insurance provisions that are similar to those of Plaintiff’s policy and seeks damages on behalf of all such policyholders. On March 7, 2024, the parties in Glover v. Connecticut General Life Insurance Company and The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company (discussed above) entered into a settlement agreement, which is subject to court approval. The provisional settlement encompasses policies that are at issue in this case, as the Glover case is inclusive of all policies in this case, as well as in the lawsuit captioned Vida Longevity Fund, LP v. Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York (discussed below), and one additional case to which an affiliate of LNL is a party, Iwanski v. First Penn-Pacific Life Insurance Company, which has been previously disclosed by our parent company, LNC. The Glover plaintiffs’ motion for preliminary approval of the provisional settlement was filed on March 8, 2024. The provisional settlement, which is subject to both preliminary and final approval of the court, consists of a $147.5 million pre-tax cash payment for Glover class members (inclusive of all policyholders in TVPX ARS INC., Vida and Iwanski). A motion has been filed to stay the proceedings in this matter (as well as the Iwanski matter) pending the completion of the settlement approval process in Glover.

LSH Co. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as securities intermediary for LSH Co. v. Lincoln National Corporation and The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, pending in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, No. 2:18-cv-05529, is a civil action filed on December 21, 2018. Plaintiffs own universal life insurance policies originally issued by Jefferson-Pilot (now LNL). Among other things, plaintiffs allege that LNL and LNC breached the terms of policyholders’ contracts when LNL increased non-guaranteed cost of insurance rates in 2016 and 2017. We are vigorously defending this matter.

Vida Longevity Fund, LP v. Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York, pending in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, No. 1:19-cv-06004, is a putative class action that was filed on June 27, 2019. Plaintiff alleges that LLANY charged more for non-guaranteed cost of insurance than was permitted by the policies. On March 31, 2022, the court issued an order granting plaintiff’s motion for class certification and certified a class of all current or former owners of six universal life insurance products issued by LLANY that were assessed a cost of insurance charge any time on or after June 27, 2013. Plaintiff seeks damages on behalf of the class. On April 19, 2023, LLANY filed a motion for summary judgment. On March 7, 2024, the parties in Glover v. Connecticut General Life Insurance Company and The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company (discussed above) entered into a settlement agreement, which is subject to court approval. The provisional settlement encompasses policies that are at issue in this case, as the Glover case is inclusive of all policies in this case, as well as in the lawsuit captioned TVPX ARS INC., as Securities Intermediary for Consolidated Wealth Management, LTD. v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company (discussed above), and one additional case to which an affiliate of LNL is a party, Iwanski v. First Penn-Pacific Life Insurance Company, which has been previously disclosed by our parent company, LNC. The Glover plaintiffs’ motion for preliminary approval of the provisional settlement was filed on March 8, 2024. The provisional settlement, which is subject to both preliminary and final approval of the court, consists of a $147.5 million pre-tax cash payment for Glover class members (inclusive of all policyholders in TVPX ARS INC., Vida and Iwanski). On March 8, 2024, we wrote to the court requesting a pre-motion conference in advance of LLANY’s planned motion to stay proceedings in this matter pending the completion of the settlement approval process in Glover.

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Angus v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, pending in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, No. 2:22-cv-01878, is a putative class action filed on May 13, 2022. Plaintiff alleges that defendant LNL breached the terms of her life insurance policy by deducting non-guaranteed cost of insurance charges in excess of what is permitted by the policies. Plaintiff seeks to represent all owners of universal life insurance policies issued or insured by LNL or its predecessors containing non-guaranteed cost of insurance provisions that are similar to those of plaintiff’s policy and seeks damages on their behalf. Breach of contract is the only cause of action asserted. On August 26, 2022, LNL filed a motion to dismiss. We are vigorously defending this matter.

Brighton Trustees, LLC, et al. v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, pending in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Case No. 2:23-cv-02251, is a civil action filed on April 20, 2023. On June 12, 2023, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana granted a motion filed by LNL to transfer the case to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Plaintiffs purport to own universal life insurance policies originally issued by Jefferson-Pilot (now LNL). Among other things, plaintiffs allege that LNL breached the terms of policyholders’ contracts and converted property when it increased non-guaranteed cost of insurance rates beginning in 2016. We are vigorously defending this matter.

Ryan K. Crayne, on behalf of and as trustee for Carlton Peak Trust v. The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, pending in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Case No. 2:24-cv-00053-GJP, is a civil action filed on November 17, 2023. On January 4, 2024, upon the parties’ stipulation, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana transferred the case to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Plaintiff purports to own claims regarding universal life policies originally issued by Jefferson-Pilot (now LNL). Among other things, plaintiff alleges that LNL breached the terms of policyholders’ contracts and converted property when it increased non-guaranteed cost of insurance rates beginning in 2016. We are vigorously defending this matter.

Other Litigation

Andrew Nitkewicz v. Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York, pending in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, No. 1:20-cv-06805, is a putative class action that was filed on August 24, 2020. Plaintiff Andrew Nitkewicz, as trustee of the Joan C. Lupe Trust, seeks to represent all current and former owners of universal life (including variable universal life) policies who own or owned policies issued by LLANY and its predecessors in interest that were in force at any time on or after June 27, 2013, and for which planned annual, semi-annual, or quarterly premiums were paid for any period beyond the end of the policy month of the insured’s death. Plaintiff alleges LLANY failed to refund unearned premium in violation of New York Insurance Law Section 3203(a)(2) in connection with the payment of death benefit claims for certain insurance policies. Plaintiff seeks compensatory damages and pre-judgment interest on behalf of the various classes and sub-class. On July 2, 2021, the court granted, with prejudice, LLANY’s November 2020 motion to dismiss this matter. Plaintiff filed a notice of appeal on July 28, 2021, and on September 26, 2022, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit reserved its decision and certified a question to the New York Court of Appeals. On October 20, 2022, the New York Court of Appeals accepted the question. On October 19, 2023, the New York Court of Appeals answered the question in LLANY’s favor and transmitted the decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. Plaintiff sought, and was granted, supplemental briefing before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit with respect to certain aspects of the New York Court of Appeals’ decision. The supplemental briefing was completed January 23, 2024. We are vigorously defending this matter.

Henry Morgan et al. v. Lincoln National Corporation d/b/a Lincoln Financial Group, et al, filed in the District Court of the 14th Judicial District of Dallas County, Texas, No. DC-23-02492, is a putative class action that was filed on February 22, 2023. Plaintiffs Henry Morgan, Susan Smith, Charles Smith, Laura Seale, Terri Cogburn, Laura Baesel, Kathleen Walton, Terry Warner, and Toni Hale (“Plaintiffs”) allege on behalf of a putative class that Lincoln National Corporation d/b/a Lincoln Financial Group, LNL and LLANY (together, “Lincoln”), FMR, LLC, and Fidelity Product Services, LLC (“Fidelity”) created and marketed misleading and deceptive insurance products with attributes of investment products. The putative class comprises all individuals and entities who purchased Lincoln OptiBlend products that allocated account monies to the 1-Year Fidelity AIM Dividend Participation Account, between January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2022. Plaintiffs assert the following claims individually and on behalf of the class, (1) violations of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act against Lincoln; (2) common-law fraud against Lincoln; (3) negligent misrepresentation against Lincoln and Fidelity; and (4) aiding and abetting fraud against Fidelity. Plaintiffs allege they suffered damages from “a missed investment return of approximately 5-6%” and mitigation damages. They seek actual, consequential and punitive damages, as well as pre-judgment and post-judgment interest, attorney’s fees, and litigation costs. On March 31, 2023, the Lincoln defendants filed a notice of removal removing the action from the 14th Judicial District of Dallas County, Texas, to the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division. On May 8, 2023, the Lincoln defendants and the Fidelity defendants filed motions to dismiss, which remain pending. We are vigorously defending this matter.


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Commitments

Leases

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had operating lease ROU assets of $80 million and $110 million, respectively, and associated lease liabilities of $89 million and $119 million, respectively. The weighted-average discount rate was 3.7% and 2.8%, respectively, and the weighted-average remaining lease term was four years and five years, respectively, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Operating lease expense for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, was $41 million, $45 million and $41 million, respectively, and reported in commissions and other expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had finance lease assets of $5 million and $14 million, respectively, and associated finance lease liabilities of $27 million and $106 million, respectively. The accumulated amortization associated with the finance lease assets was $467 million and $458 million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. These assets will continue to be amortized on a straight-line basis over the assets’ remaining lives. The weighted-average discount rate was 6.4% and 2.9%, respectively, and the weighted-average remaining lease term was two years and one year, respectively, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.

Finance lease expense (in millions) was as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Amortization of finance lease assets (1)
$$23 $38 
Interest on finance lease liabilities (2)
Total$14 $27 $41 

(1) Amortization of finance lease assets is reported in commissions and other expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
(2) Interest on finance lease liabilities is reported in interest and debt expense on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).

The table below presents cash flow information (in millions) related to leases:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases$41 $47 $40 
Financing cash flows from finance leases83 74 62 
Supplemental Non-Cash Information
ROU assets obtained in exchange for new lease obligations:
Operating leases$– $$

Our future minimum lease payments (in millions) under non-cancellable leases as of December 31, 2023, were as follows:

Operating LeasesFinance Leases
2024$34 $18 
202526 
202622 
202715 – 
2028– 
Thereafter– 
Total future minimum lease payments112 29 
Less: Amount representing interest23 
Present value of minimum lease payments$89 $27 

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As of December 31, 2023, we had no leases that had not yet commenced.

Certain Financing Arrangements

We periodically enter into sale-leaseback arrangements that do not meet the criteria of a sale for accounting purposes. As such, we account for these transactions as financing arrangements. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had $595 million and $558 million, respectively, of financing obligations reported within other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Future payments due on certain financing arrangements (in millions) as of December 31, 2023, were as follows:

2024$152 
2025172 
2026224 
2027127 
202810 
Thereafter
Total future minimum lease payments691 
Less: Amount representing interest96 
Present value of minimum lease payments$595 

Vulnerability from Concentrations

As of December 31, 2023, we did not have a concentration of: business transactions with a particular customer or lender; sources of supply of labor or services used in the business; or a market or geographic area in which business is conducted that makes us vulnerable to an event that is at least reasonably possible to occur in the near term and which could cause a severe impact to our financial condition. For information on our investment and reinsurance concentrations, see Notes 4 and 8, respectively.

Other Contingency Matters
 
State guaranty funds assess insurance companies to cover losses to contract holders of insolvent or rehabilitated companies. Mandatory assessments may be partially recovered through a reduction in future premium taxes in some states. We have accrued for expected assessments and the related reductions in future state premium taxes, which net to assessments (recoveries) of $(1) million and $(3) million as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

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19. Shares and Stockholder’s Equity

All authorized and issued shares of LNL are owned by LNC.

AOCI

The following summarizes the components and changes in AOCI (in millions):

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Fixed Maturity AFS Securities and Certain Other Investments
Balance as of beginning-of-year$(8,526)$9,153 $8,993 
Cumulative effect from adoption of new accounting standards– – 3,584 
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the year2,122 (24,475)(4,478)
Change in foreign currency exchange rate adjustment178 (321)(143)
Change in future contract benefits and policyholder account balances, net of reinsurance638 2,292 893 
Income tax benefit (expense) (650)4,815 797 
Less:
Reclassification adjustment for gains (losses) included in net income (loss)(3,425)(13)624 
Income tax benefit (expense) 719 (131)
Balance as of end-of-year$(3,532)$(8,526)$9,153 
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments
Balance as of beginning-of-year$301 $258 $42 
Cumulative effect from adoption of new accounting standard– – 25 
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the year162 (154)141 
Change in foreign currency exchange rate adjustment(169)312 152 
Income tax benefit (expense) (34)(63)
Less:
Reclassification adjustment for gains (losses) included in net income (loss)60 103 49 
Income tax benefit (expense) (13)(22)(10)
Balance as of end-of-year$249 $301 $258 
Market Risk Benefit Non-Performance Risk Gain (Loss)
Balance as of beginning-of-year$1,739 $1,951 $– 
Cumulative effect from adoption of new accounting standard– – 2,874 
Adjustment arising during the year(854)(267)(1,174)
Income tax benefit (expense) 184 55 251 
Balance as of end-of-year$1,069 $1,739 $1,951 
Policyholder Liability Discount Rate Remeasurement Gain (Loss)
Balance as of beginning-of-year$790 $(1,101)$– 
Cumulative effect from adoption of new accounting standard– – (1,661)
Adjustment arising during the year(187)2,406 711 
Income tax benefit (expense) 42 (515)(151)
Balance as of end-of-year$645 $790 $(1,101)
Funded Status of Employee Benefit Plans
Balance as of beginning-of-year$(17)$(11)$(14)
Adjustment arising during the year(6)
Income tax benefit (expense) – – (1)
Balance as of end-of-year$(16)$(17)$(11)


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The following summarizes the reclassifications out of AOCI (in millions) and the associated line item in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Fixed Maturity AFS
Securities and Certain Other Investments
Reclassification$(4,014)$(13)$624 Realized gain (loss)
Associated change in future contract benefits589 – – Benefits
Reclassification before income
tax benefit (expense)(3,425)(13)624 Income (loss) before taxes
Income tax benefit (expense)719 (131)Federal income tax expense (benefit)
Reclassification, net of income tax$(2,706)$(10)$493 Net income (loss)
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments
Interest rate contracts$(1)$$Net investment income
Foreign currency contracts54 62 48 Net investment income
Foreign currency contracts39 (2)Realized gain (loss)
Reclassifications before income
tax benefit (expense)60 103 49 Income (loss) before taxes
Income tax benefit (expense)(13)(22)(10)Federal income tax expense (benefit)
Reclassifications, net of income tax$47 $81 $39 Net income (loss)

20. Segment Information

We provide products and services and report results through our Annuities, Life Insurance, Group Protection and Retirement Plan Services segments. We also have Other Operations, which includes the financial data for operations that are not directly related to the business segments. Our reporting segments reflect the manner by which our chief operating decision makers view and manage the business. The following is a brief description of these segments and Other Operations.

The Annuities segment provides tax-deferred investment growth and lifetime income opportunities for its clients by offering variable annuities (including RILA) and fixed annuities (including indexed).

The Life Insurance segment focuses on the creation and protection of wealth through life insurance products, including term insurance, both single (including UL, corporate-owned UL and VUL and bank-owned UL and VUL products) and survivorship versions of IUL and VUL products, linked-benefit products (which are UL and VUL with riders providing for long-term care costs), and critical illness and long-term care riders, which can be attached to IUL or VUL policies.

The Group Protection segment offers group non-medical insurance products and services, including short- and long-term disability, statutory disability and paid family medical leave administration and absence management services, term life, dental, vision and accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity benefits and services to the employer marketplace through various forms of employee-paid and employer-paid plans.

The Retirement Plan Services segment provides employer-sponsored defined benefit and individual retirement accounts, as well as individual and group variable annuities, group fixed annuities and mutual-fund based programs in the retirement plan marketplace.

Other Operations includes investments related to our excess capital; benefit plan obligations; the results of certain disability income business; our run-off institutional pension business, the majority of which was sold on a group annuity basis; debt costs; Spark program expense; and other corporate investments.








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Segment operating revenues and income (loss) from operations are internal measures used by our management and Board of Directors to evaluate and assess the results of our segments. Income (loss) from operations is GAAP net income excluding the after-tax effects of the following items, as applicable:

Items related to annuity product features, which include changes in MRBs, including gains and losses and benefit payments, changes in the fair value of the derivative instruments we hold to hedge GLB and GDB riders, net of fee income allocated to support the cost of hedging them, and changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative liabilities of our indexed annuity contracts and the associated index options we hold to hedge them, including collateral expense associated with the hedge program (collectively, “net annuity product features”);
Items related to life insurance product features, which include changes in the fair value of derivatives we hold as part of VUL hedging, changes in reserves resulting from benefit ratio unlocking associated with the impact of capital markets, and changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative liabilities of our IUL contracts and the associated index options we hold to hedge them (collectively, “net life insurance product features”);
Credit loss-related adjustments on fixed maturity AFS securities, mortgage loans on real estate and reinsurance-related assets (“credit loss-related adjustments”);
Changes in the fair value of equity securities, certain derivatives, certain other investments and realized gains (losses) on sales, disposals and impairments of financial assets (collectively, “investment gains (losses)”);
Changes in the fair value of reinsurance-related embedded derivatives, trading securities and mortgage loans on real estate electing the fair value option (“changes in the fair value of reinsurance-related embedded derivatives, trading securities and certain mortgage loans”);
GLB rider fees ceded to LNBAR;
Income (loss) from the initial adoption of new accounting standards, regulations and policy changes;
Income (loss) from reserve changes, net of related amortization, on business sold through reinsurance;
Transaction and integration costs related to mergers and acquisitions including the acquisition or divestiture, through reinsurance or other means, of businesses or blocks of business;
Gains (losses) on modification or early extinguishment of debt;
Losses from the impairment of intangible assets and gains (losses) on other non-financial assets; and
Income (loss) from discontinued operations.

Operating revenues represent GAAP revenues excluding the pre-tax effects of the following items, as applicable:

Changes in the fair value of the derivative instruments we hold to hedge GLB and GDB riders, net of fee income allocated to support the cost of hedging them, and changes in the fair value of the embedded derivative liabilities of our indexed annuity and IUL contracts and the associated index options we hold to hedge them (collectively, “revenue adjustments from annuity and life insurance product features”);
Credit loss-related adjustments;
Investment gains (losses);
Changes in the fair value of reinsurance-related embedded derivatives, trading securities and certain mortgage loans;
GLB rider fees ceded to LNBAR;
Revenue adjustments from the initial adoption of new accounting standards; and
Amortization of deferred gains arising from reserve changes on business sold through reinsurance.

We use our prevailing corporate federal income tax rate of 21%, where applicable, net of the impacts related to dividends received deduction and foreign tax credits and any other permanent differences for events recognized differently in our financial statements and federal income tax returns.

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The tables below reconcile our segment measures of performance to the GAAP measures presented in the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (in millions):

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Revenues
Operating revenues:
Annuities (1)
$2,625 $4,102 $4,258 
Life Insurance6,362 6,344 6,938 
Group Protection5,560 5,303 4,994 
Retirement Plan Services1,290 1,257 1,306 
Other Operations (1)
(778)133 158 
Revenue adjustments from annuity and life insurance product features99 872 818 
Credit loss-related adjustments(74)(129)109 
Investment gains (losses)(4,080)19 654 
Changes in the fair value of reinsurance-related embedded derivatives,
trading securities and certain mortgage loans(22)588 165 
GLB rider fees ceded to LNBAR(923)(932)(888)
Total revenues (1)
$10,059 $17,557 $18,512 
 
For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Net Income (Loss)
Income (loss) from operations:
Annuities$840 $948 $1,089 
Life Insurance(126)(1,933)497 
Group Protection297 40 (165)
Retirement Plan Services155 198 235 
Other Operations(356)(374)(244)
Net annuity product features, after-tax1,295 416 1,866 
Net life insurance product features, after-tax148 21 (1)
Credit loss-related adjustments, after-tax(58)(102)86 
Investment gains (losses), after-tax(3,210)15 516 
Changes in the fair value of reinsurance-related embedded derivatives,
trading securities and certain mortgage loans, after-tax(18)465 130 
GLB rider fees ceded to LNBAR, after-tax(728)(735)(701)
Impairment of intangibles– (634)– 
Transaction and integration costs related to mergers,
acquisitions and divestitures, after-tax (2)
(27)– (11)
Net income (loss)$(1,788)$(1,675)$3,297 

(1)    Includes ceded insurance premiums primarily related to the Fortitude Re reinsurance transaction effective in the fourth quarter of 2023. For more information, see Note 8.
(2)    Includes costs pertaining to the Fortitude Re reinsurance transaction and the planned sale of LNC’s wealth management business. For more information, see Note 1 and Note 8, respectively.

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Other segment information (in millions) was as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Net Investment Income
Annuities$1,744 $1,387 $1,314 
Life Insurance2,515 2,464 3,054 
Group Protection336 333 364 
Retirement Plan Services999 966 982 
Other Operations118 124 125 
Total net investment income$5,712 $5,274 $5,839 

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Annuities$79 $128 $189 
Life Insurance(62)(544)112 
Group Protection79 11 (44)
Retirement Plan Services25 32 48 
Other Operations(102)(84)(70)
Net annuity product features344 112 496 
Net life insurance product features39 – 
Credit loss-related adjustments(16)(27)20 
Investment gains (losses)(853)140 
Changes in the fair value of reinsurance-related embedded derivatives,
trading securities and certain mortgage loans(5)123 35 
GLB rider fees ceded to LNBAR(194)(197)(186)
Transaction and integration costs related to mergers,
acquisitions and divestitures(7)– (3)
Total federal income tax expense (benefit)(673)(437)737 

As of December 31,
20232022
Assets
Annuities$186,716 $165,643 
Life Insurance107,529 97,373 
Group Protection9,741 9,830 
Retirement Plan Services46,969 42,275 
Other Operations23,021 20,461 
Total assets$373,976 $335,582 

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21. Realized Gain (Loss)

Details underlying realized gain (loss) (in millions) reported on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) were as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Fixed maturity AFS securities: (1)
Gross gains$627 $37 $660 
Gross losses(428)(50)(36)
Credit loss benefit (expense) (2)
(21)(14)(11)
  Intent to sell impairments
(4,213)– – 
Realized gain (loss) on equity securities (3)
(6)12 41 
Credit loss benefit (expense) on mortgage loans on real estate(16)(3)111 
Credit loss benefit (expense) on reinsurance-related assets (4)
(35)(112)
Realized gain (loss) on the mark-to-market on certain instruments (5)(6)
(509)683 169 
Indexed product derivative results (7)
(232)74 22 
GLB rider fees ceded to LNBAR and attributed fees(112)(168)(91)
Other realized gain (loss)11 (41)(13)
Total realized gain (loss)$(4,934)$418 $859 

(1) Includes impairments of certain fixed maturity AFS securities in an unrealized loss position, resulting from the Company’s intent to sell these securities as part of the Fortitude Re reinsurance transaction. Pursuant to the applicable accounting guidance, the Company impaired the securities in a loss position down to fair market value upon entry into the agreements in the second quarter of 2023 and recognized additional impairment on certain of these securities during the third quarter of 2023 due to higher interest rates. Interest rates declined during the fourth quarter of 2023, which resulted in recognition of a $295 million pre-tax net gain upon close of the transaction, included in gross gains and gross losses. See Notes 4 and 8 for additional information.
(2) Includes changes in the allowance for credit losses as well as direct write-downs to amortized cost as a result of negative credit events.
(3) Includes mark-to-market adjustments on equity securities still held of $8 million, $7 million and $44 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
(4) Includes the release of reinsurance recoverables and the corresponding allowance for credit losses related to a third-party reinsurer, Scottish Re, where liquidation proceedings commenced during the third quarter of 2023. As of September 30, 2023, reinsurance coverage terminated and all business ceded to Scottish Re was therefore recaptured.
(5) Represents changes in the fair values of derivatives we hold as part of VUL hedging, reinsurance-related embedded derivatives and trading securities. Also includes an $87 million pre-tax loss related to interest rate futures used to hedge the assets used as consideration in the Fortitude Re reinsurance transaction. See Note 8 for additional information.
(6) Includes gains and losses from fair value changes on mortgage loans on real estate accounted for under the fair value option of $(11) million, $(24) million and $3 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
(7) Represents the change in fair value of the index options that we hold and the change in the fair value of the embedded derivative liabilities of our indexed annuity and IUL contracts, and the associated index options to hedge policyholder index allocations applicable to future reset periods for our indexed annuity products.

 












105

22. Commissions and Other Expenses

Details underlying commissions and other expenses (in millions) were as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Commissions$2,082 $2,201 $2,227 
General and administrative expenses2,427 2,200 2,187 
DAC and VOBA deferrals, net of amortization(171)(346)(321)
Broker-dealer expenses444 419 441 
Taxes, licenses and fees333 344 358 
Expenses associated with reserve financing and LOCs58 60 57 
Specifically identifiable intangible asset amortization37 37 37 
Other amortization12 11 
Transaction and integration costs related to mergers, acquisitions and divestitures34 – 14 
Total$5,249 $4,927 $5,011 


23. Federal Income Taxes

The federal income tax expense (benefit) on continuing operations (in millions) was as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Current$(255)$(24)$20 
Deferred(418)(413)717 
Federal income tax expense (benefit)$(673)$(437)$737 

A reconciliation of the effective tax rate differences (in millions) was as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Income (loss) before taxes$(2,461)$(2,112)$4,034
Federal statutory rate21%21%21%
Federal income tax expense (benefit) at federal statutory rate(517)(444)847
Effect of:
Tax-preferred investment income (1)
(126)(90)(88)
Tax credits(40)(42)(26)
Excess tax expense (benefit) from stock-based compensation3(1)
Goodwill impairment133
Other items774
Federal income tax expense (benefit)$(673)$(437)$737
Effective tax rate27%21%18%

(1) Relates primarily to separate account dividends eligible for the dividends-received deduction.

The federal income tax asset (liability) (in millions) was as follows:

As of December 31,
20232022
Current$546 $353 
Deferred49 734 
Total federal income tax asset (liability)$595 $1,087 

106

Significant components of our deferred tax assets and liabilities (in millions) were as follows:
As of December 31,
20232022
Deferred Tax Assets
Insurance liabilities and reinsurance-related balances$322 $231 
Compensation and benefit plans175 152 
Intangibles18 21 
Net unrealized loss on fixed maturity AFS securities1,246 2,161 
Net unrealized loss on trading securities33 70 
Investment activity91 296 
Tax credits103 – 
Net operating losses87 278 
Capital losses93 – 
Deferred gain on reinsurance400 30 
Total deferred tax assets$2,568 $3,239 
Deferred Tax Liabilities
DAC and VOBA$1,906 $1,769 
Reinsurance-related embedded derivative assets104 143 
MRB-related activity286 228 
Other223 365 
Total deferred tax liabilities$2,519 $2,505 
Net deferred tax asset (liability)$49 $734 

As of December 31, 2023, we have $103 million of federal income tax credits that can be carried forward to 2030 through 2033. As of December 31, 2023, we have $414 million of net operating losses to carry forward to future years. As of December 31, 2023, we have $442 million of capital losses to carry forward to future years. The net operating losses arose in tax years 2018 and 2021 and, under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act changes, have an unlimited carryforward period. The capital losses arose in tax year 2023 and can be carried back three years and forward five years. As a result, management believes that it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset associated with the loss carryforwards will be realized. Inclusive of the tax attribute for the net operating losses, although realization is not assured, management believes that it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefits of all our deferred tax assets, and, accordingly, no valuation allowance has been recorded.

We are subject to examination by U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. income authorities. With few exceptions for limited scope review, we are no longer subject to U.S. federal examinations for years before 2019. In the first quarter of 2021, the Internal Revenue Service commenced an examination of our 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 refund claims. We are currently under examination by several state and local taxing jurisdictions; however, we do not expect these examinations will materially impact us.

A reconciliation of the gross unrecognized federal tax benefits (in millions) was as follows:

For the Years Ended December 31,
20232022
Balance as of beginning-of-year$59 $64 
Decreases for prior year tax positions(6)(6)
Increases for prior year tax positions23 
Balance as of end-of-year$76 $59 

As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, $66 million and $43 million, respectively, of our gross unrecognized federal tax benefits presented above, if recognized, would have affected our federal income tax expense (benefit) and our effective tax rate. We anticipate that it is reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits primarily associated with separate account dividends-received deduction, tax credits and compensation, upon completion of our ongoing refund claims review, will decrease by $35 million by the end of 2024.

We recognize interest and penalties accrued, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of tax expense. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, we recognized no interest and penalty expense (benefit), and there was no accrued interest and penalty expense related to the unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.

107

In August 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 was passed by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Biden. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 established a new 15% corporate alternative minimum tax for corporations whose average adjusted net income for any consecutive three-year period beginning after December 31, 2022, exceeds $1.0 billion. This provision became effective for tax years beginning after December 31, 2022. We determined that we were not within the scope of the corporate alternative minimum tax for 2023.

24. Statutory Information and Restrictions
 
We prepare financial statements in accordance with statutory accounting principles (“SAP”) prescribed or permitted by the insurance departments of our respective states of domicile, which may vary materially from GAAP.

Prescribed SAP includes the Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners
(“NAIC”) as well as state laws, regulations and administrative rules. Permitted SAP encompasses all accounting practices not so
prescribed. The principal differences between statutory financial statements and financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP
are that statutory financial statements do not reflect DAC, some bond portfolios may be carried at amortized cost, assets and liabilities are
presented net of reinsurance, contract holder liabilities are generally valued using more conservative assumptions and certain assets are
non-admitted.

We are subject to the applicable laws and regulations of our respective states of domicile. Changes in these laws and regulations could change capital levels or capital requirements for the Company.
 
Statutory capital and surplus, net gain (loss) from operations, after-tax, net income (loss) and dividends to the LNC holding company amounts (in millions) below consist of all or a combination of the following entities: LNL, LLANY, Lincoln Reinsurance Company of South Carolina, Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont I, Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont III, Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont IV, Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont V, Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont VI and Lincoln Reinsurance Company of Vermont VII.
As of December 31,
20232022
U.S. capital and surplus$8,026 $8,507 

For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
U.S. net gain (loss) from operations, after-tax$(2,495)$1,708 $(1,285)
U.S. net income (loss)(2,924)1,965 (569)
U.S. dividends to LNC holding company495 645 1,910 

State Prescribed and Permitted Practices

The states of domicile for LNL and LLANY, Indiana and New York, respectively, have adopted certain prescribed or permitted accounting practices that differ from those found in NAIC SAP. These prescribed practices are the calculation of reserves on universal life policies based on the Indiana universal life method as prescribed by the state of Indiana for policies issued before January 1, 2006, the use of a more conservative valuation interest rate on certain annuities prescribed by the states of Indiana and New York. Also, the state of New York prescribes use of the continuous Commissioners’ Annuity Reserve Valuation Method in the calculation of reserves and use of minimum reserve methods and assumptions for variable annuity and individual life insurance contracts that may be more conservative than those required by NAIC SAP. The statutory permitted practices allow accounting for certain derivative assets at amortized cost and allow determining certain indexed annuity and indexed universal life statutory reserve calculations with the assumption that the market value of the related liability call option(s) associated with the current index term is zero. At the conclusion of the index term, credited interest is reflected in the reserve as realized, based on actual index performance. The statutory accounting practices also allow accounting for certain group fixed annuity assets at general account balances.

108

The Vermont reinsurance subsidiaries also have certain accounting practices permitted by the state of Vermont that differ from those found in NAIC SAP. One permitted practice involves accounting for the lesser of the face amount of all amounts outstanding under an LOC and the value of the Valuation of Life Insurance Policies Model Regulation (“XXX”) additional statutory reserves as an admitted asset and a form of surplus as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Another permitted practice involves the acquisition of an LLC note in exchange for a variable value surplus note that is recognized as an admitted asset and a form of surplus as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Lastly, the state of Vermont has permitted a practice to account for certain excess of loss reinsurance agreements with unaffiliated reinsurers as an asset and form of surplus as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. These permitted practices are related to structures that continue to be allowed in accordance with the grandfathered structures under the provisions of Actuarial Guideline 48 (“AG48”) or are compliant under AG48 requirements.

The favorable (unfavorable) effects on statutory surplus compared to NAIC statutory surplus from the use of these prescribed and permitted practices (in millions) were as follows:
As of December 31,
20232022
State Prescribed Practices
Calculation of reserves using the Indiana universal life method$(1)$
Conservative valuation rate on certain annuities(1)(36)
Calculation of reserves using continuous CARVM(1)(1)
Conservative Reg 213 reserves on variable annuity and individual life contracts(31)(37)
State Permitted Practice
Derivative instruments and equity indexed reserves(170)14 
Assets in group fixed annuity contracts held at general account balances332 436 
Vermont Subsidiaries Permitted Practices
Lesser of LOC and XXX additional reserve as surplus1,776 1,838 
LLC notes and variable value surplus notes1,444 1,547 
Excess of loss reinsurance agreements563 549 

The NAIC has adopted RBC requirements for life insurance companies to evaluate the adequacy of statutory capital and surplus in relation to investment and insurance risks. The requirements provide a means of measuring the minimum amount of statutory surplus appropriate for an insurance company to support its overall business operations based on its size and risk profile. Under RBC requirements, regulatory compliance is determined by the ratio of a company’s total adjusted capital, as defined by the NAIC, to its company action level of RBC (known as the “RBC ratio”), also as defined by the NAIC. The company action level may be triggered if the RBC ratio is between 75% and 100%, which would require the insurer to submit a plan to the regulator detailing corrective action it proposes to undertake. As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s RBC ratio was approximately four times the aforementioned company action level RBC.

We are subject to certain insurance department regulatory restrictions as to the transfer of funds and payment of dividends to the holding company. Under Indiana laws and regulations, LNL may pay dividends to LNC without prior approval of the Indiana Insurance Commissioner (the “Commissioner”), only from unassigned surplus and must receive prior approval of the Commissioner to pay a dividend if such dividend, along with all other dividends paid within the preceding 12 consecutive months, would exceed the statutory limitation. The current statutory limitation is the greater of 10% of the insurer’s contract holders’ surplus, as shown on its last annual statement on file with the Commissioner or the insurer’s statutory net gain from operations for the previous 12 months, but in no event to exceed statutory unassigned surplus. Indiana law gives the Commissioner broad discretion to disapprove requests for dividends in excess of these limits. LNL’s subsidiary, LLANY, a New York-domiciled insurance company, is bound by similar restrictions under the laws of New York. Under New York law, the applicable statutory limitation on dividends is equal to the lesser of 10% of surplus to contract holders as of the immediately preceding calendar year or net gain from operations for the immediately preceding calendar year, not including realized capital gains. We expect that we could pay dividends to LNC of approximately $780 million in 2024 without prior approval from the Commissioner of Insurance.

All payments of principal and interest on surplus notes must be approved by the respective Commissioner of Insurance.

109

25. Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Data

The following summarizes our supplemental cash flow data (in millions):
For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Net cash paid (received) for:
Interest$187 $126 $115 
Income taxes(110)(61)29 
Non-cash transactions:
Net increase (decrease) in fixed maturity AFS securities, other
investments and accrued investment income in connection with
reinsurance transactions(20,264)54 (3,700)
Establishment of funds withheld liability in connection with
a reinsurance transaction(49)– – 



26. Transactions with Affiliates
 
The following summarizes transactions with affiliates (in millions) and the associated line item on the Consolidated Balance Sheets:
As of December 31,
20232022
Assets with affiliates:
Inter-company notes$1,063 $1,216 Fixed maturity AFS securities
Assumed reinsurance contracts– Policy Loans
Deferred acquisition costs, value of business
Assumed/ceded reinsurance contracts (131)(138)acquired and deferred sales inducements
Accrued inter-company interest receivable 16 13 Accrued investment income
Reinsurance recoverables, net of allowance
Ceded reinsurance contracts 15,563 2,187 for credit losses
Ceded reinsurance contracts 642 899 Other assets
Cash management agreement857 124 Other assets
Service agreement receivable 41 Other assets
Liabilities with affiliates:
Assumed reinsurance contracts 18 17 Future contract benefits
Assumed reinsurance contracts 352 361 Policyholder account balances
Inter-company short-term debt 840 562 Short-term debt
Inter-company long-term debt 2,195 2,269 Long-term debt
Ceded reinsurance contracts5,862 2,517 Funds withheld reinsurance liabilities
Ceded reinsurance contracts 897 (31)Other liabilities
Accrued inter-company interest payable 18 15 Other liabilities
Service agreement payable 37 41 Other liabilities
Assumed/ceded reinsurance contracts4,387 158 Other liabilities
Equity with affiliates:
Accumulated other comprehensive income – 774 55 Accumulated other comprehensive
assumed/cededincome (loss)


110


The following summarizes transactions with affiliates (in millions) and the associated line item on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss):
For the Years Ended December 31,
202320222021
Revenues with affiliates:
Premiums received on assumed (paid on ceded)
reinsurance contracts $(498)$(421)$(468)Insurance premiums
Fees for management of general account (156)(140)(138)Net investment income
Net investment income on ceded funds
withheld treaties(238)(161)(113)Net investment income
Net investment income on inter-company notes 65 40 29 Net investment income
Realized gains (losses) on ceded reinsurance
contracts:
Other gains (losses)(9)631 94 Realized gain (loss)
Reinsurance-related settlements1,717 (1,068)1,626 Realized gain (loss)
Amortization of deferred gain (loss) on reinsuranceAmortization of deferred gain
contracts17 (loss) on business sold
through reinsurance
Other revenues(171)– – Other revenues
Benefits and expenses with affiliates:
Reinsurance (recoveries) benefits on ceded
reinsurance(507)(247)(430)Benefits
Interest credited on assumed reinsurance contracts12 47 48 Interest credited
Market risk benefit (gain) loss
on ceded reinsurance contracts1,129 3,543 2,199 Market risk benefit (gain) loss
Policyholder liability remeasurement (gain) loss Policyholder liability remeasurement
on ceded reinsurance contracts– (321)64 (gain) loss
Ceded reinsurance contracts (13)(26)(7)Commissions and other expenses
Service agreement payments (receipts)(17)(53)(29)Commissions and other expenses
Interest expense on inter-company debt 148 120 107 Interest and debt expense

Inter-Company Notes

LNC issues inter-company notes to us for a predetermined face value to be repaid by LNC at a predetermined maturity with a specified interest rate.

Cash Management Agreement

In order to manage our capital more efficiently, we participate in an inter-company cash management program where LNC can lend to or borrow from us to meet short-term borrowing needs. The cash management program is essentially a series of demand loans, which are permitted under applicable insurance laws, among LNC and its affiliates that reduces overall borrowing costs by allowing LNC and its subsidiaries to access internal resources instead of incurring third-party transaction costs. The borrowing and lending limit is currently 3% of our admitted assets as of December 31, 2023.

Service Agreements

In accordance with service agreements with LNC and other subsidiaries of LNC for personnel and facilities usage, general management services and investment management services, we receive services from and provide services to affiliated companies and receive an allocation of corporate overhead. Corporate overhead expenses are allocated based on specific methodologies for each function. The majority of the expenses are allocated based on the following methodologies: headcount, capital, investments by product, account values, weighted policies in force and sales.

Ceded Reinsurance Contracts

As discussed in Note 8, we cede insurance contracts to LNBAR. We cede certain guaranteed benefit risks (including certain GDB and GLB benefits) to LNBAR.
111


Substantially all reinsurance ceded to affiliated companies is with unauthorized companies. To take reserve credit for such reinsurance: the reinsurer holds assets in trust for our potential benefit; we hold assets from the reinsurer, including funds withheld under reinsurance treaties; and/or we are the beneficiary of LOCs that are obtained by the affiliate reinsurer and issued by banks. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the LOCs of which we are the beneficiary aggregated to $111 million and $1.5 billion, respectively.

27. Subsequent Event

On March 7, 2024, we entered into a settlement agreement, which is subject to court approval, encompassing the policies at issue in Glover v. Connecticut General Life Insurance Company and The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, which also includes the policies in certain other cost of insurance litigation matters, as discussed in further detail in Note 18, Contingencies and Commitments. The provisional settlement, which is subject to both preliminary and final approval of the court, consists of a $147.5 million pre-tax cash payment. We recorded a pre-tax legal expense for the year ended December 31, 2023, of approximately $110 million within commissions and other expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) in respect of this provisional settlement. As of December 31, 2023, we had accrued the total provisional settlement amount of $147.5 million, pre-tax.

112

 

PART II

 

This filing is made pursuant to Rule 6e-3(T).

 

UNDERTAKING TO FILE REPORTS

 

Subject to the terms and conditions of Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission such supplementary and periodic information, documents, and reports as may be prescribed by any rule or regulation of the Commission heretofore or hereafter duly adopted pursuant to authority conferred in that section.

 

INDEMNIFICATION

 

(a)   Brief description of indemnification provisions. In general, Article VII of the By-Laws of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company (LNL) provides that LNL will indemnify certain persons against expenses, judgments and certain other specified costs incurred by any such person if he/she is made a party or is threatened to be made a party to a suit or proceeding because he/she was a director, officer, or employee of LNL, as long as he/she acted in good faith and in a manner he/she reasonably believed to be in the best interests of, or not opposed to the best interests of, LNL. Certain additional conditions apply to indemnification in criminal proceedings.

 

   In particular, separate conditions govern indemnification of directors, officers, and employees of LNL in connection with suits by, or in the right of, LNL.

 

   Please refer to Article VII of the By-Laws of LNL (Exhibit No. 6(b) hereto) for the full text of the indemnification provisions. Indemnification is permitted by, and is subject to the requirements of Indiana law.

 

(b) Undertaking pursuant to Rule 484 of Regulation C under the Securities Act of 1933.

 

  Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant, 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 such 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.

 

 

REPRESENTATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 26(e)(2)(A) OF
THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940

 

The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company hereby represents that the fees and charges deducted under the Policies registered by this Registration Statement, in the aggregate, are reasonable in relation to the services rendered, the expenses expected to be incurred, and the risks assumed by The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company.

 

CONTENTS OF REGISTRATION STATEMENT

 

This Post-Effective Amendment No. 41 to the Registration Statement comprises the following papers and documents:

 

The facing sheet

 

Page 1 of 3

 

 

 

Form.DocumentTitle
Form.RecipientSubject

MMMM d, yyyy

 

Reconciliation and Tie-in Sheet
The Prospectus
Indemnification
The undertaking to file reports
The representations pursuant to Section 26(e) (2) (A) of the Investment Company Act of 1940
The signatures
The Powers of Attorney
The written consents of the following persons:

 

Jassmin McIver-Jones

Thomas Mylander, FSA, MAAA

Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

The following exhibits:

 

1.The following exhibits correspond to those required by paragraph A of the instructions as to exhibits in Form N-8B-2:

 

(1)   Resolution of the Board of Directors of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company and related documents authorizing establishment of the Account. Incorporated by reference to registration statement Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 (File No. 033-22740) filed on April 23, 1998.

 

(2)  Not applicable.

 

(3)   Selling Agreement between The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company and Lincoln Financial Distributors incorporated by reference to Post- Effective Amendment No. 24 on Form N-4 (File No. 333-61554) filed on December 18, 2007.

 

     (a) Amendment Selling Group Agreement for Lincoln Financial Advisors incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 (File No. 333- 82663) filed on April 13, 2000.

 

     (b)  Form of Broker-Dealer Selling Agreement among The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York and Lincoln Financial Distributors, Inc. incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-4 (File No. 333-222786) filed on January 30, 2018.

 

     (c)  Not applicable.

 

(4)Not applicable.

 

(5)(a) Application incorporated by reference to registration statement Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 (File No. 033-22740) filed on April 23, 1998.

 

(b)Policy incorporated by reference to registration statement Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 (File No. 033-22740) filed on April 23, 1998.

 

(c)   Extension of Maturity Date Amendment – Policy Form AMD-7099 CV incorporated by reference to registration statement Post-Effective Amendment No. 36 (File No. 033-22740) filed on April 22, 2021.

 

(6)   (a) Articles of Incorporation of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Co. incorporated by reference to registration statement filed on Form S-6 (File No. 333-40745) filed on November 21, 1997.

 

(b) Bylaws of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company incorporated by reference to registration statement filed on Form S-6 (File No. 333-40745) filed on November 21, 1997.

 

(7)Not applicable.

 

Page 2 of 3 

 

 

 

Form.DocumentTitle
Form.RecipientSubject

MMMM d, yyyy

 

 

(8)Fund Participation Agreements, and amendments thereto, between The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company and:

 

(a) American Funds Insurance Series incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 26 to the Registration Statement on Form N-6 (File No. 333-146507) filed on April 3, 2017.

 

Amendment No. 15 incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 38 on Form N-6 (File No. 333-125790) filed on April 8, 2020.

 

(b)  Lincoln Variable Insurance Products Trust incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 24 to the Registration Statement on Form N-6 (File No. 333-146507) filed on April 1, 2016.

 

 

(9)  (a) Proposed form of Indemnification Agreement related to compliance with IRC Section 817(h) and the regulations thereunder incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 (File No. 333-72875) filed on October 22, 1999.

 

(b) Accounting and Financial Administrative Services Agreement dated January 1, 2019 among State Street Bank and Trust Company, The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company and Lincoln Life & Annuity Company of New York incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 36 on Form N-6 (File No. 333-125790) filed on April 12, 2019.

 

(10)See Exhibit 1(5)(a).

 

2.See Exhibit 1 incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 36 on Form N-6 (File No. 333-125790) filed on April 12, 2019.
3.Opinion and consent of Jassmin McIver-Jones (Filed Herewith)
4.Not applicable.
5.Opinion and consent of Thomas Mylander, FSA, MAAA (Filed Herewith)
6.Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (Filed Herewith).
7.Not applicable.

 

Page 3 of 3 

 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, each Registrant, has duly caused these Post-Effective Amendments to Registration Statements to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned duly authorized, in the City of Hartford and State of Connecticut on the 25th day of March, 2024 at 7:39 am. Registrant certifies that these amendments meet all of the requirements for effectiveness pursuant to Rule 485(b) under the Securities Act of 1933.

 

 

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account M

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account R

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account JF-A

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G

(Registrants)

 

    /s/Joshua Durand  
  By    
    Joshua Durand  
    Vice President  
    The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company  
     
     
     
The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company  
(Depositor)  
     
    /s/Josh Durand  
  By    
    Joshua Durand  
    Vice President  
    The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company  

 

 

 

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account M (File No.: 811-08557)

 

333-229292 (Amendment No. 12) 333-146507 (Amendment No. 35) 333-118477 (Amendment No. 26)
333-200100 (Amendment No. 15) 333-259409 (Amendment No. 5) 333-237112 (Amendment No. 9)
333-259297 (Amendment No. 5) 333-118478 (Amendment No. 26) 333-181796 (Amendment No. 16)
333-139960 (Amendment No. 27) 333-249922 (Amendment No. 12) 333-229198 (Amendment No. 14)
333-191329 (Amendment No. 22) 333-111137 (Amendment No. 27)  

 

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account R (File No.: 811-08579)

 

333-249920 (Amendment No. 9) 333-188891 (Amendment No. 15) 333-115882 (Amendment No. 27)
333-232013 (Amendment No. 8) 333-207968 (Amendment No. 12)  

 

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account JF-A (File No.: 811-04160)

333-144272 (Amendment No. 22) 333-144274 (Amendment No. 21)

 

 

 

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G (File No.: 811-05585)

 

033-22740 (Amendment No. 41)

 

 

 

As required by the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, these Amendments to the Registration Statements have been signed by the following persons in their capacities indicated on March 21, 2024 at 1:09 pm.

 

 

 

Signature   Title
     
*/s/Ellen G. Cooper    
     
Ellen G. Cooper   President and Director
     
     
*/s/Christopher M. Neczypor    
     
Christopher M. Neczypor   Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director
     
*/s/Craig T. Beazer    
     
Craig T. Beazer   Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Director
     
*/s/Eric B. Wilmer    
     
Eric B. Wilmer   Assistant Vice President and Director
     
*/s/Jayson R. Bronchetti    
     
Jayson R. Bronchetti   Executive Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Director
     
*/s/Adam M. Cohen    
     
Adam M. Cohen   Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer

 

 

  /s/Jassmin McIver-Jones  
* By    
  Jassmin McIver-Jones  
  Attorney-in-Fact, pursuant to a Power-  
  of-Attorney filed with this Registration  
  Statement  

 

 

 

POWER OF ATTORNEY

 

We, the undersigned directors and/or officers of The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company, hereby constitute and appoint Delson R. Campbell, Scott C. Durocher, Kimberly A. Genovese, Daniel P. Herr, Michelle Grindle, Jeffrey L. Smith, Jassmin McIver-Jones, Carolyn Augur, Rachel C. Fischer, Nadine Rosin, Brittany Speas and John D. Weber, individually, our true and lawful attorneys-in-fact, with full power to each of them to sign for us, in our names and in the capacities indicated below, any Registration Statements and any and all amendments to Registration Statements; including exhibits, or other documents filed on Forms N-6, N-4 or S-3 or any successors or amendments to these Forms, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, under the Securities Act of 1933 and/or Securities Act of 1940, on behalf of the Company in its own name or in the name of one of its Separate Accounts, hereby ratifying and confirming our signatures as they may be signed by any of our attorneys-in-fact to any such amendments to said Registration Statements as follows:

 

Variable Life Insurance Separate Accounts:

 

Account Product name
Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account D (811-04592) Variable Universal Life Leadership Series
Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account F (811-05164)

American Legacy Life

American Legacy Estate Builder

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account G (811-05585) VUL-III
Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account J (811-08410) American Legacy Variable Life
Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account K (811-08412) Multi Fund Variable Life

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account M (811-08557)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VULdb / VULdb ES

VULdb-II ES

VUL-I / VULcv

VULcv-II / VULcvII ES / VUL Flex

VULcv-III ES

MoneyGuard VUL

VULone ES / VULone 2005 ES

Momentum VULone / Momentum VULone 2005

VULcv-IV ES

VULdb-IV ES

Momentum VULone 2007

VULone 2007

AssetEdge VUL

AssetEdge VUL2015/AssetEdge Exec VUL 2015

VULone2012

VULone2014

InReach VULone2014

VULone2019

AssetEdge VUL2019/AssetEdge Exec VUL 2019

AssetEdge VUL2019-2/AssetEdge Exec VUL 2019-2

AssetEdge VUL2020/AssetEdge Exec VUL 202

AssetEdge VUL 2022/AssetEdge VUL 2022-2

MoneyGuard Market Advantage

VULone2021

LifeGoals VUL

MoneyGuard Market Advantage 2024

 

 

 

 

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account R (811-08579)

SVUL / SVUL-I

SVUL-II / SVUL-II ES

SVUL-III ES

SVUL-IV ES / PreservationEdge SVUL

SVULone ES

Momentum SVULone

SVULone 2007 ES

Momentum SVULone 2007

SVULone2013

SVULone2016

SVULone2019

SVULone2021


Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account S (811-09241)

CVUL / CVUL Series III / CVUL Series III ES

LCV4 ES

LCV5 ES / LCC VUL

Lincoln Corporate Executive VUL

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account Y (811-21028)

American Legacy VULcv-III

American Legacy VULdb-II

American Legacy SVUL-II

American Legacy SVUL-III

American Legacy VULcv-IV

American Legacy VULdb-IV

American Legacy SVUL-IV/PreservationEdge SVUL

American Legacy AssetEdge

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account JF-A

Ensemble II

Ensemble III

Ensemble Exec 2006

Ensemble Exec

Ensemble 1

Ensemble Accumulator

Ensemble Protector

Lincoln Life Flexible Premium Variable Life Account JF-C

Ensemble SL

Ensemble SVUL

 

Variable Annuity Separate Accounts:

 

Account Product name
Lincoln National Variable Annuity Account C (811-03214)

Multi-Fund

Multi-Fund Select

Multi-Fund 5 Retirement Annuity

Lincoln PathBuilder Income® IRA

Lincoln National Variable Annuity Account E (811-04882) The American Legacy
Lincoln National Variable Annuity Account H (811-05721)

American Legacy II

American Legacy III

American Legacy III B Class

American Legacy III C Share

American Legacy III Plus

American Legacy III View

American Legacy Design

American Legacy Signature

American Legacy Fusion

American Legacy Series

American Legacy Advisory

American Legacy Target Date Income B Share

American Legacy Target Date Income Advisory

Shareholder’s Advantage

Shareholder’s Advantage A Class

Shareholder’s Advantage purchased on and after May 21, 2018

 

 

 

 

Lincoln National Variable Annuity Account L (811-07645)

Group Variable Annuity

Lincoln PathBuilder Income Version 1

Lincoln PathBuilder Income Version 2

Lincoln PathBuilder Income Version 3

Lincoln PathBuilder Income Version 4

Retirement Income Rollover Version 1

Retirement Income Rollover Version 2

Retirement Income Rollover Version 3

Retirement Income Rollover Version 4

Lincoln Life Variable Annuity Account N (811-08517)

ChoicePlus Assurance (A Share)

ChoicePlus Assurance (A Class)

ChoicePlus Assurance (B Share)

ChoicePlus Assurance (B Class)

ChoicePlus Assurance (C Share)

ChoicePlus Assurance (L Share)

ChoicePlus Assurance (Bonus)

Choice Plus

Choice Plus II

ChoicePlus Access

ChoicePlus II Access

ChoicePlus Bonus

ChoicePlus II Bonus

 

ChoicePlus II Advance

ChoicePlus Design

ChoicePlus Signature

ChoicePlus Rollover

ChoicePlus Fusion

ChoicePlus Series

ChoicePlus Prime

ChoicePlus Advisory

ChoicePlus Select B-Share

InvestmentSolutions

InvestmentSolutions RIA

Lincoln Investor Advantage

Lincoln Invester Advantage 2018

Lincoln Invester Advantage Pro

Lincoln Investor Advantage Fee-Based

Lincoln Investor Advantage RIA

Lincoln Investor Advantage Advisory

Lincoln Investor Advantage Pro Advisory

Lincoln Investor Advantage RIA Class

Lincoln Investor Advantage Advisory Choice

Lincoln Investor Advantage Pro Advisory Choice

Lincoln Level Advantage B Share Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Advisory Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage B Class Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Advisory Class Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Fee-Based Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Select B-Share Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Design B-Share Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Design Advisory Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Access Indexed Variable Annuity

Core Income

Lincoln Life Variable Annuity Account Q (811-08569) Multi-Fund Group

 

 

 

 

Lincoln Life S-3 Registration Statement

Lincoln Level Advantage B Share Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Advisory Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage B Class Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Advisory Class Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Fee-Based Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Select B Share Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Design B-Share Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Design Advisory Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage Access Indexed Variable Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage 2 B Share Indexed-Linked Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage 2 Advisory Indexed-Linked Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage 2 Advisory Class Indexed-Linked Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage 2 Select B Share Indexed-Linked Annuity

Lincoln Level Advantage 2 Access Indexed-Linked Annuity

 

Except as otherwise specifically provided herein, the power-of-attorney granted herein shall not in any manner revoke in whole or in part any power-of-attorney that each person whose signature appears below has previously executed. This power-of-attorney shall not be revoked by any subsequent power-of-attorney each person whose signature appears below may execute, unless such subsequent power specifically refers to this power-of-attorney or specifically states that the instrument is intended to revoke all prior general powers-of-attorney or all prior powers-of-attorney.

 

This Power-of-Attorney may be executed in separate counterparts each of which when executed and delivered shall be an original; but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument. Each counterpart may consist of a number of copies, each signed by less than all, but together signed by all, of the undersigned.

 

Signature   Title
     
/s/Ellen G. Cooper   President and Director
Ellen G. Cooper    
     
/s/Christopher M. Neczypor   Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Director
Christopher M. Neczypor    
     
/s/Craig T. Beazer   Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Director
Craig T. Beazer    
     
/s/Eric B. Wilmer   Assistant Vice President and Director
Eric B. Wilmer    
     
/s/Jayson R. Bronchetti   Executive Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Director
Jayson R. Bronchetti    
     
/s/Adam M. Cohen   Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer and Treasurer
Adam M. Cohen    

 

We, Delson R. Campbell, Kimberly A. Genovese, Daniel P. Herr, Michelle Grindle, Jeffrey L. Smith, Jassmin McIver-Jones, Carolyn Augur, Rachel C. Fischer, Nadine Rosin, Brittany Speas and John D. Weber, have read the foregoing Power of Attorney. We are the person(s) identified therein as agent(s) for the principal named therein. We acknowledge our legal responsibilities.

 

/s/Delson R. Campbell   /s/Rachel C. Fischer
Delson R. Campbell   Rachel C. Fischer
     
/s/Kimberly A. Genovese   /s/Daniel P. Herr
Kimberly A. Genovese   Daniel P. Herr
     
/s/Nadine Rosin   /s/Michelle Grindle
Nadine Rosin   Michelle Grindle
     
/s/Jeffrey L. Smith   /s/John D. Weber
Jeffrey L. Smith   John D. Weber
     
/s/Jassmin McIver-Jones   /s/Carolyn Augur
Jassmin McIver-Jones   Carolyn Augur
     
/s/Brittany Speas    
Brittany Speas    

 

Version dated: March 2024

 

 

 


ATTACHMENTS / EXHIBITS

ATTACHMENTS / EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT 99.B(3)

EXHIBIT 99.B(5)

EXHIBIT 99.B(6)